May, 2026
Dear Friends of the Civic Orchestra of Minneapolis,
What a season it has been!
When I stepped onto the podium as your 10th Music Director this fall, I was filled with both humility and excitement. Humility, because I was following in the footsteps of 30 years of Cary John Franklin’s extraordinary leadership — and excitement, because I had the privilege of making music with this remarkable ensemble and sharing it, free of charge, with this community. From our opening concert last September to our upcoming May performance of Tchaikovsky’s Fourth Symphony, this 73rd season has affirmed everything I hoped it would be: adventurous programming, dedicated musicians, and audiences who show up with open ears and generous hearts.
Now I’m writing to ask for your help with one more thing.
To close our fiscal year with a balanced budget on June 30th, we need to raise $8,000. Every gift goes directly toward keeping our concerts free and open to everyone in the Minneapolis community. That’s a promise we’ve kept since 1952, and one I intend for us to continue to uphold for seasons to come.
If our music has already moved you to contribute, let me thank you again. If you can help us meet our budget goal, please consider a gift today. Know that your support makes all the difference. I invite you to:
- Visit our giving platform ; or
- Mail a check to PO Box 50604, Minneapolis, MN, 55405; and
- Join us at 3pm, May 17, for our concert “Fate” at St. Michael’s Lutheran Church (9201 Normandale Blvd, Bloomington, MN 55437) or via livestream (see smlcb.org and click ‘watch service live’).
With deep gratitude and great anticipation for what comes next.
Dr. Matthew George,
Music Director, Civic Orchestra of Minneapolis