Events of the Houston Symphony League
The Houston Symphony League hosts various events throughout the year. Below are descriptions of our main events.
Educational Opportunities
Book Club
This is a book discussion group that meets in a member’s home, typically twice a year. It is designed to be a social and educational experience and to encourage a deeper understanding of the Symphony’s upcoming repertoire.
B# Series
This popular program involves three luncheons with informative and entertaining speakers and presentations from musicians, guest artists, composers, Symphony staff, experts in medical and music research and other community arts organizations in a luncheon and lecture setting.
Fundraising for the Symphony
Magical Musical Morning
This exciting family event raises funds for the Symphony’s Education and Community Engagement programs and typically occurs in early December. The lovely and joyous brunch offers photos with Santa, crafts and the Instrument Petting Zoo, as well as other activities geared to the children. League volunteers help organize and assist, especially with the children. The League leads the organization and fundraising activities.
Conversation with an Icon
This is a wonderful luncheon with prominent Houston accomplished and intriguing celebrities as speakers. The event is usually held at beautiful and exciting venues.
Musician Sponsorship
The League is conducting a special fundraiser through member donations to sponsor a musician for the following year.
Neiman Marcus Style Show
This style show and luncheon is an annual partnership with the legendary Neiman Marcus. Neiman’s graciously hosts the luncheon and style show to raise funds for the Symphony.
Pop-up Fundraisers
The League earns a percentage of the sales during a pop-up event that the League organizes at various stores around the Greater Houston area.
Social Opportunities
Fall Membership Luncheon and Volunteer Fair
The luncheon kicks off the Houston Symphony League’s season and provides an opportunity for members to sign up to donate their time and talents to the year’s lineup of volunteer activities and fundraisers.
Orchestrated Luncheons
A purely social event for our members to Dutch treat themselves to a fun get-together at one of Houston’s lovely restaurants. The League typically has one in the fall and one in the spring.
Holiday Party
This annual event is held in December typically in a home setting for members to celebrate the festive holiday season. This is a no-charge membership meeting and thank you party for our members.
Spring Membership Event
The event is an elegant affair at which the general membership votes on the new officers who were previously selected by the Nominating Committee. Our esteemed Ardyce Tostengard Crystal Cello Award is presented to the outstanding education volunteer for serving, inspiring, and bringing the joy of music to children and families. This is a no-charge membership meeting and thank you party for our members.
President’s Luncheon
This luncheon is a celebration for our outgoing president and their accomplishments and a welcome for our incoming president as the gavel is passed. The League also presents the esteemed Ellen Kelley Volunteer of the Year Award.
Social Connections
Members only social groups that meet to build camaraderie. It is a requirement to volunteer at the Student Concerts if a member joins one of the groups.
- League Night Out – meets for Symphony performances, dinner, cocktails, light bites
- Wine Society – meets at Brenner’s Blue Bar to socialize and enjoy wine and appetizers
- Gourmet Group – provides cooking demonstrations
- Exploring Houston’s Arts and Culture – provides tours of Houston art and cultural experiences
- Exploring Houston – provides tours of well-known sites and businesses of interest in Houston
- Games Day – meets to play games
- Golf – meets to play golf
- Mah Jongg – meets to play Mah Jongg
- Destination Trip – travels on a group trip to somewhere fun and interesting
