The Houston Symphony League hosted its annual Conversation with an Icon Luncheon on April 29, 2026, at the Omni Hotel, bringing together community leaders, supporters, and music enthusiasts for an inspiring afternoon celebrating the power of the arts. The event was co-chaired by Blanca Jolly and Saula Valente.
Centered around the theme The Impact of Music, the luncheon featured a captivating conversation between the 2026 Icon, Gina Gaston, and moderator Linda Lorelle. Gina has created 12 specials on the Houston Symphony over a 13-year partnership with the Symphony and so many more support efforts! Gina highlighted the Houston Symphony’s far-reaching Education and Community Engagement initiatives, which continue to transform lives across Greater Houston through music and arts education.
A meaningful addition to this year’s event was the Children’s Music Book Drive led by the Houston Symphony League and the Young Associates Council. Donations will benefit the Barbara Bush Houston Literacy Foundation, the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo Trailblazer Committee ROPES Program, and the Houston Symphony, all of which had representatives to receive ceremonial books at the event.
Custom music-themed art pieces partially donated by Sneha Merchant were given to Gina Gaston, Kim Nordt-Jackson – the producer for KTRK, and Linda Lorelle as a thank you. The phrase Music Inspires, Teaches, Heals which is from the TV Segment Playing it Forward that Kim Nordt-Jackson created, was included on the art. Kim Nordt-Jackson said she was incredibly honored. KTRK created a custom video just for the Icon event and the mp4 file can be downloaded here.
The table settings included floral arrangements in soft lavender tones, which evoked a spring garden captured within a glass globe, like a scene framed in a window. Completing the table setting, a delicate cookie, shaped as a lavender dress similar to what was shown by the Carolina Herrera fashions, rested inside a box, as though tucked within a wardrobe. The elegant and fresh spring atmosphere perfectly echoed the spirit of the 2026 Spring collection by Carolina Herrera on the runway.
https://www.houstonsymphonyleague.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/HoustonSymphony_logo_webd-03-564x86-1-300x46-1.png00Brad Cavanaughhttps://www.houstonsymphonyleague.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/HoustonSymphony_logo_webd-03-564x86-1-300x46-1.pngBrad Cavanaugh2026-06-22 20:53:522026-06-22 20:53:52Conversation with an ICON
The Ellen Kelley Volunteer of the Year Award is given in recognition of outstanding service to the Houston Symphony League. This year’s honoree is Ann Tornyos. Ann and her late husband, Karl Tornyos, moved to Houston from New Orleans in June 2005 and began attending the Houston Symphony’s Classical Series.
Her first exposure to the Houston Symphony League was the B# Brunch series. In 2014, Ann became Corresponding Secretary for the League and in 2015 served as Chair of the Crafts Committee, which provided educational activities for the Family Concerts and the holiday Magical Musical Morning.
In 2017, she was honored to receive the Ardyce Tostengard Crystal Cello Award along with her Craft Committee co-chair, Kristin Turnak. In 2022, as a member of the Executive Committee, Ann served on the By-Laws Committee that updated the League’s By-laws. She served as Parliamentarian in 2022-23 and Recording Secretary in 2023-24 while also being jointly responsible for the crafts for the Family Concerts.
Ann contributed to the Ima Hogg Competitions with food and funds. She participated in the funding of the Steinway grand piano for the Symphony and supported the Musician’s and Staff Luncheons, and she is a member of the Symphony’s Legacy Society. She regularly works the Family Concerts and is always positioned at the popular Crafts table. She has also been an avid supporter of the League’s project to support a Symphony orchestra member.
Ann has served the HSL with courage, purpose, and heart, and through her HSL work, is helping to shape the next generation of perhaps lifelong artists and certainly lifelong audiences.
https://www.houstonsymphonyleague.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/HoustonSymphony_logo_webd-03-564x86-1-300x46-1.png00Brad Cavanaughhttps://www.houstonsymphonyleague.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/HoustonSymphony_logo_webd-03-564x86-1-300x46-1.pngBrad Cavanaugh2026-06-18 17:51:332026-06-18 17:51:332026 Ellen Kelley Volunteer of the Year – Ann Kennedy Tornyos
The Houston Symphony League proudly hosted its 5th Annual Conversations with an ICON Luncheon on Wednesday, March 26, at the Houston Country Club. This year’s event, honored the renowned Saks Fifth Avenue, a valued partner and long-time supporter of the Houston Symphony League, reminiscent of the wildly successful annual Maestro Luncheon & Fashion Show of the 90’s.
The event featured Heidi Turney, Vice President and General Manager of Saks Fifth Avenue, Houston. Guests enjoyed an engaging conversation between Ms. Turney and acclaimed journalist Shelby Hodge, who was also honored as the League’s Icon in 2023. The conversation was followed by an impressive Spring fashion show, orchestrated by expert stylist, Jeanne Ruberti for Saks Fifth Avenue, which beautifully showcased the elegance and creativity that both institutions are known for.
Co-chairs and long-time supporters of the Houston Symphony, Brigitte Kalai and Farida Abjani, delivered a heartfelt tribute to community leadership, creativity, and volunteerism as they recognized three exemplary Houstonians:
Hallie Vanderhider & Bobby Dees – Community Honorees, recognized for their longstanding commitment to education, the arts, and philanthropy across numerous organizations.
Beth Wolff – Houston Symphony League Honoree, celebrated for her groundbreaking leadership of Houston real estate and her unwavering support of the League and many charitable and civic initiatives.
League President Heidi Rockecharlie recognized the extraordinary efforts of the League’s many volunteers, and shared highlights of their remarkable accomplishments this year, including record membership growth, the implementation of a cost-cutting event sponsorship program, enriching the Icon fundraising concept, and ongoing support for the Houston Symphony’s education and outreach initiatives, which are projected to reach more than 350,000 individuals this season—over 130,000 of whom are children. She also recognized Honorary Committee Chair, Lesha Elsenbrook for her long-standing dedication to the League.
Proceeds from the luncheon directly benefit the Houston Symphony’s industry-leading Education and Community Engagement programs, including in-school residencies, the Music and Wellness initiative, the In Harmony program, and the Harry and Cora Sue Mach Student Concert Series.
“Today was a celebration of those who give back,” said President Rockecharlie. “We are deeply grateful for everyone who made this day possible and for all who continue to support our world-class, Grammy Award-winning Symphony Orchestra. Together, we are making music—and a difference.”
Thank you to PaperCity, The Social Book, CultureMap and The Buzz Magazines for the coverage of this event.
Good tempo. The major keys were Brigitte Kalai and Farida Abjani, who chaired the Fifth Annual Conversations with an ICON Luncheon at Houston Country Club benefiting the Houston Symphony League. With rhythm and harmony, president Heidi Rockecharlieconducted a score of the League’s accomplishments and outreach initiatives, with projections to reach more than 350,000 individuals this season, over 130,000 of whom are children. Guests enjoyed an engaging repertoire between ICON honoree Heidi Turney (VP and GM of longtime supporter Saks Fifth Avenue) and journalist Shelby Hodge, who were followed by models in spring clothes from Saks Fifth Avenue. Three exemplary Houstonians Hallie Vanderhider, Bobby Dees, and Beth Wolff were honored for their rhapsody of unwavering support.
https://www.houstonsymphonyleague.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/HoustonSymphony_logo_webd-03-564x86-1-300x46-1.png00Tracie Welch-Brentonhttps://www.houstonsymphonyleague.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/HoustonSymphony_logo_webd-03-564x86-1-300x46-1.pngTracie Welch-Brenton2025-05-06 13:58:452026-06-18 17:52:52Where Fashion Meets Philanthropy: 2025 Conversations with an ICON
In service to the Houston Symphony League, Susan Osterberg is guided by Shakespeare’s words, “The quality of giving blesses twice: he who receives and he who gives”.
Susan’s leadership and philanthropic roles have included HSL President in 2012-2013, Corresponding Secretary, Recording Secretary, Government Affairs, the President’s Council, Strategic Planning, Arts Advocacy, Mentorship Program, Fall Luncheon Co-chair, Nominations Chair, Ima Hogg Competition, and Community Engagement. She has given support to the Annual Fund, Exploring Houston’s Arts and Culture, Underwriting chair for Opening Night, and chaired the HS Legacy Society Luncheon. In addition, Susan has led campaigns for government funding of the arts, assisted with the HSL Musician Staff Appreciation events, ushered at Student Concerts & Family Concerts, the Symphony Store, Magical Musical Morning, Casino Night 2024, and gathered auction items for the annual Symphony Ball.
When asked about memorable HSL involvement, two events come to mind. Bordeaux on the Bayou, which received the League of American Orchestras’ Gold Book Award, was an arts evening with community outreach and was shared among the Houston Symphony League, Buffalo Bayou Partnership, and the City of Houston Parks and Recreation. The event was held in the Vine Street Studios and brought together 23 arts groups who contributed to the arts evening. Attendees were surrounded by the world of performing and visual arts, friendship, and Bordeaux wine.
The second memorable initiative was HSL’s 75th Anniversary year, honoring the Diamond Anniversary Celebration, during Susan’s HSL presidency in 2012-2013. Amid twinkling lights, in the Gardens of Bayou Bend, members and friends of the League gathered to celebrate the legacy of the organization’s founder, Miss Ima Hogg. Highlights of the evening included proclamations from Mayor Anise Parker and Harris County Judge Ed Emmett. During that year, Susan led the efforts for the League’s gift of a Steinway Piano for the symphony
Professionally, Susan has been a lifelong arts advocate and arts educator. She has devoted her professional career to the field of arts communication and is an educator in the Department of Arts and Communication in the University of Houston System.
Various other professional assignments have included her association with the Nina Vance Alley Theatre, the Elementary School for Creative and Performing Arts, and a residency at the National Endowment for the Arts. Susan was one of three American women selected to represent the United States in Sierra Leone, where she introduced the arts of Texas to the people of West Africa.
Susan is married to Edward C. Osterberg, Jr. They have one son, Charles, a partner at Urology Austin in Austin, Texas.
The Ellen Kelley Volunteer of the Year Award is given in recognition of outstanding service to the Houston Symphony league and the Houston Symphony. The Award was established in 1984 and named after its first recipient, Ellen Kelley. The honoree has special qualities of purposeful involvement, the ability to inspire others, meets goals with a vision for the present and the future, hard work in the trenches, productivity, ingenuity and ongoing support and leadership are all important qualities of the recipient.
https://www.houstonsymphonyleague.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/HoustonSymphony_logo_webd-03-564x86-1-300x46-1.png00Tracie Welch-Brentonhttps://www.houstonsymphonyleague.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/HoustonSymphony_logo_webd-03-564x86-1-300x46-1.pngTracie Welch-Brenton2025-05-03 15:44:342025-05-18 16:18:372025 ELLEN KELLEY VOLUNTEER OF THE YEAR AWARD – SUSAN SNIDER OSTERBERG
This Alyce Tostengard Crystal Cello Award was awarded at the Spring Membership Tea to 12-year Volunteer Houston Symphony League member, Jeffery Aron!
Jeff has become a fixture at Student and Family Concerts for the past 12 years as he was transitioning into his second retirement from a career in Electrical Engineering. A PhD, Jeff had an illustrious career working for Warner Communications, Norden and finally for Schlumberger, which afforded his family the joy of living in Paris. After an early retirement, he couldn’t sit still and went to work for Tuboscope and even after his second retirement he went into consulting using his in-depth knowledge of acoustics, which certainly comes in handy as a patron of the Houston Symphony.
After his second retirement, his wife, Rita, a long time Houston Symphony League volunteer told him about the acute need for more volunteers for Student Concerts and he rapidly stepped up to the challenge and even telling his consulting clients he would be late because he “was needed at that days Student Concerts”.
A fixture on the Texas Street side of Jones Hall, he knows that the more help you have in shepherding the kids into Jones Hall the smoother the day goes for everyone. He just enjoys the students and the Texas side of the street; so, he probably won’t quit volunteering any time soon.
Congratulations and we are so proud of Jeff and all he does for the Houston Symphony League.
Houston’s cultural landscape is rich with events that blend elegance, philanthropy, and community engagement—but few do so as seamlessly as the Houston Symphony League’s Conversations with an Icon featuring Saks Fifth Avenue. This highly anticipated luncheon and fashion show is more than just a glamorous gathering; it serves as a vital bridge, connecting the arts to the community while raising funds that make a real difference.
Expanding Access to the Arts
Attending a world-class symphony performance is an experience like no other. Yet, for many in Houston, access to live orchestral music remains out of reach. The Houston Symphony League is dedicated to changing that. Funds raised from this event help bring the magic of live classical music to individuals of all ages and backgrounds, ensuring that the power of music transcends barriers and reaches a broader, more diverse audience.
Enhancing Music Education
Music has the power to inspire, and early exposure can shape a child’s lifelong appreciation for the arts. The League channels part of its funding into educational programs that introduce students—including those from underprivileged communities—to the world of music. Through these programs, young minds are exposed to popular and classical compositions, world-renowned conductors, and historical composers, nurturing the next generation of music lovers and performers.
The Healing Power of Music
Music does more than entertain—it heals. Through its Music Therapy and Outreach Program, the Houston Symphony League supports initiatives that bring live classical performances to hospitals, nursing homes, and home-bound patients. The therapeutic benefits of music have been well-documented, and these live performances by Houston Symphony Orchestra members provide comfort, relaxation, and even cognitive benefits to those in need.
More Than a Fashion Show—A Community Investment
When you attend Conversations with an Icon, you are not just supporting the arts—you are investing in education, inclusion, and well-being. Your participation helps create meaningful, lasting change in Houston’s cultural and social fabric.
Join us on March 26, 2025, at Houston Country Club for Conversations with an ICON, the intersection of fashion and philanthropy. Most importantly, help ensure that the beauty of music remains accessible to all.
https://i0.wp.com/www.houstonsymphonyleague.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Conversations-with-Icon1.png?fit=1162%2C700&ssl=17001162Tracie Welch-Brentonhttps://www.houstonsymphonyleague.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/HoustonSymphony_logo_webd-03-564x86-1-300x46-1.pngTracie Welch-Brenton2025-03-11 21:18:422025-03-11 21:27:52Conversations with an Icon: A Symphony of Fashion, Community, and Impact
Conversation with an ICON
/in Event/by Brad CavanaughThe Houston Symphony League hosted its annual Conversation with an Icon Luncheon on April 29, 2026, at the Omni Hotel, bringing together community leaders, supporters, and music enthusiasts for an inspiring afternoon celebrating the power of the arts. The event was co-chaired by Blanca Jolly and Saula Valente.
Centered around the theme The Impact of Music, the luncheon featured a captivating conversation between the 2026 Icon, Gina Gaston, and moderator Linda Lorelle. Gina has created 12 specials on the Houston Symphony over a 13-year partnership with the Symphony and so many more support efforts! Gina highlighted the Houston Symphony’s far-reaching Education and Community Engagement initiatives, which continue to transform lives across Greater Houston through music and arts education.
A meaningful addition to this year’s event was the Children’s Music Book Drive led by the Houston Symphony League and the Young Associates Council. Donations will benefit the Barbara Bush Houston Literacy Foundation, the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo Trailblazer Committee ROPES Program, and the Houston Symphony, all of which had representatives to receive ceremonial books at the event.
Custom music-themed art pieces partially donated by Sneha Merchant were given to Gina Gaston, Kim Nordt-Jackson – the producer for KTRK, and Linda Lorelle as a thank you. The phrase Music Inspires, Teaches, Heals which is from the TV Segment Playing it Forward that Kim Nordt-Jackson created, was included on the art. Kim Nordt-Jackson said she was incredibly honored. KTRK created a custom video just for the Icon event and the mp4 file can be downloaded here.
The table settings included floral arrangements in soft lavender tones, which evoked a spring garden captured within a glass globe, like a scene framed in a window. Completing the table setting, a delicate cookie, shaped as a lavender dress similar to what was shown by the Carolina Herrera fashions, rested inside a box, as though tucked within a wardrobe. The elegant and fresh spring atmosphere perfectly echoed the spirit of the 2026 Spring collection by Carolina Herrera on the runway.
2026 Ellen Kelley Volunteer of the Year – Ann Kennedy Tornyos
/in Award/by Brad CavanaughHer first exposure to the Houston Symphony League was the B# Brunch series. In 2014, Ann became Corresponding Secretary for the League and in 2015 served as Chair of the Crafts Committee, which provided educational activities for the Family Concerts and the holiday Magical Musical Morning.
In 2017, she was honored to receive the Ardyce Tostengard Crystal Cello Award along with her Craft Committee co-chair, Kristin Turnak. In 2022, as a member of the Executive Committee, Ann served on the By-Laws Committee that updated the League’s By-laws. She served as Parliamentarian in 2022-23 and Recording Secretary in 2023-24 while also being jointly responsible for the crafts for the Family Concerts.
Ann contributed to the Ima Hogg Competitions with food and funds. She participated in the funding of the Steinway grand piano for the Symphony and supported the Musician’s and Staff Luncheons, and she is a member of the Symphony’s Legacy Society. She regularly works the Family Concerts and is always positioned at the popular Crafts table. She has also been an avid supporter of the League’s project to support a Symphony orchestra member.
Ann has served the HSL with courage, purpose, and heart, and through her HSL work, is helping to shape the next generation of perhaps lifelong artists and certainly lifelong audiences.
Where Fashion Meets Philanthropy: 2025 Conversations with an ICON
/in Event, News/by Tracie Welch-BrentonThe Houston Symphony League proudly hosted its 5th Annual Conversations with an ICON Luncheon on Wednesday, March 26, at the Houston Country Club. This year’s event, honored the renowned Saks Fifth Avenue, a valued partner and long-time supporter of the Houston Symphony League, reminiscent of the wildly successful annual Maestro Luncheon & Fashion Show of the 90’s.
The event featured Heidi Turney, Vice President and General Manager of Saks Fifth Avenue, Houston. Guests enjoyed an engaging conversation between Ms. Turney and acclaimed journalist Shelby Hodge, who was also honored as the League’s Icon in 2023. The conversation was followed by an impressive Spring fashion show, orchestrated by expert stylist, Jeanne Ruberti for Saks Fifth Avenue, which beautifully showcased the elegance and creativity that both institutions are known for.
Co-chairs and long-time supporters of the Houston Symphony, Brigitte Kalai and Farida Abjani, delivered a heartfelt tribute to community leadership, creativity, and volunteerism as they recognized three exemplary Houstonians:
League President Heidi Rockecharlie recognized the extraordinary efforts of the League’s many volunteers, and shared highlights of their remarkable accomplishments this year, including record membership growth, the implementation of a cost-cutting event sponsorship program, enriching the Icon fundraising concept, and ongoing support for the Houston Symphony’s education and outreach initiatives, which are projected to reach more than 350,000 individuals this season—over 130,000 of whom are children. She also recognized Honorary Committee Chair, Lesha Elsenbrook for her long-standing dedication to the League.
Proceeds from the luncheon directly benefit the Houston Symphony’s industry-leading Education and Community Engagement programs, including in-school residencies, the Music and Wellness initiative, the In Harmony program, and the Harry and Cora Sue Mach Student Concert Series.
“Today was a celebration of those who give back,” said President Rockecharlie. “We are deeply grateful for everyone who made this day possible and for all who continue to support our world-class, Grammy Award-winning Symphony Orchestra. Together, we are making music—and a difference.”
Thank you to PaperCity, The Social Book, CultureMap and The Buzz Magazines for the coverage of this event.
Excerpt from The Buzz Magazines
Good tempo. The major keys were Brigitte Kalai and Farida Abjani, who chaired the Fifth Annual Conversations with an ICON Luncheon at Houston Country Club benefiting the Houston Symphony League. With rhythm and harmony, president Heidi Rockecharlieconducted a score of the League’s accomplishments and outreach initiatives, with projections to reach more than 350,000 individuals this season, over 130,000 of whom are children. Guests enjoyed an engaging repertoire between ICON honoree Heidi Turney (VP and GM of longtime supporter Saks Fifth Avenue) and journalist Shelby Hodge, who were followed by models in spring clothes from Saks Fifth Avenue. Three exemplary Houstonians Hallie Vanderhider, Bobby Dees, and Beth Wolff were honored for their rhapsody of unwavering support.
2025 ELLEN KELLEY VOLUNTEER OF THE YEAR AWARD – SUSAN SNIDER OSTERBERG
/in Award, Volunteer/by Tracie Welch-BrentonIn service to the Houston Symphony League, Susan Osterberg is guided by Shakespeare’s words, “The quality of giving blesses twice: he who receives and he who gives”.
Susan’s leadership and philanthropic roles have included HSL President in 2012-2013, Corresponding Secretary, Recording Secretary, Government Affairs, the President’s Council, Strategic Planning, Arts Advocacy, Mentorship Program, Fall Luncheon Co-chair, Nominations Chair, Ima Hogg Competition, and Community Engagement. She has given support to the Annual Fund, Exploring Houston’s Arts and Culture, Underwriting chair for Opening Night, and chaired the HS Legacy Society Luncheon. In addition, Susan has led campaigns for government funding of the arts, assisted with the HSL Musician Staff Appreciation events, ushered at Student Concerts & Family Concerts, the Symphony Store, Magical Musical Morning, Casino Night 2024, and gathered auction items for the annual Symphony Ball.
When asked about memorable HSL involvement, two events come to mind. Bordeaux on the Bayou, which received the League of American Orchestras’ Gold Book Award, was an arts evening with community outreach and was shared among the Houston Symphony League, Buffalo Bayou Partnership, and the City of Houston Parks and Recreation. The event was held in the Vine Street Studios and brought together 23 arts groups who contributed to the arts evening. Attendees were surrounded by the world of performing and visual arts, friendship, and Bordeaux wine.
The second memorable initiative was HSL’s 75th Anniversary year, honoring the Diamond Anniversary Celebration, during Susan’s HSL presidency in 2012-2013. Amid twinkling lights, in the Gardens of Bayou Bend, members and friends of the League gathered to celebrate the legacy of the organization’s founder, Miss Ima Hogg. Highlights of the evening included proclamations from Mayor Anise Parker and Harris County Judge Ed Emmett. During that year, Susan led the efforts for the League’s gift of a Steinway Piano for the symphony
Professionally, Susan has been a lifelong arts advocate and arts educator. She has devoted her professional career to the field of arts communication and is an educator in the Department of Arts and Communication in the University of Houston System.
Various other professional assignments have included her association with the Nina Vance Alley Theatre, the Elementary School for Creative and Performing Arts, and a residency at the National Endowment for the Arts. Susan was one of three American women selected to represent the United States in Sierra Leone, where she introduced the arts of Texas to the people of West Africa.
Susan is married to Edward C. Osterberg, Jr. They have one son, Charles, a partner at Urology Austin in Austin, Texas.
The Ellen Kelley Volunteer of the Year Award is given in recognition of outstanding service to the Houston Symphony league and the Houston Symphony. The Award was established in 1984 and named after its first recipient, Ellen Kelley. The honoree has special qualities of purposeful involvement, the ability to inspire others, meets goals with a vision for the present and the future, hard work in the trenches, productivity, ingenuity and ongoing support and leadership are all important qualities of the recipient.
The 2025 Alyce Tostengard Crystal Cello
/in Award/by Tracie Welch-BrentonThis Alyce Tostengard Crystal Cello Award was awarded at the Spring Membership Tea to 12-year Volunteer Houston Symphony League member, Jeffery Aron!
Jeff has become a fixture at Student and Family Concerts for the past 12 years as he was transitioning into his second retirement from a career in Electrical Engineering. A PhD, Jeff had an illustrious career working for Warner Communications, Norden and finally for Schlumberger, which afforded his family the joy of living in Paris. After an early retirement, he couldn’t sit still and went to work for Tuboscope and even after his second retirement he went into consulting using his in-depth knowledge of acoustics, which certainly comes in handy as a patron of the Houston Symphony.
After his second retirement, his wife, Rita, a long time Houston Symphony League volunteer told him about the acute need for more volunteers for Student Concerts and he rapidly stepped up to the challenge and even telling his consulting clients he would be late because he “was needed at that days Student Concerts”.
A fixture on the Texas Street side of Jones Hall, he knows that the more help you have in shepherding the kids into Jones Hall the smoother the day goes for everyone. He just enjoys the students and the Texas side of the street; so, he probably won’t quit volunteering any time soon.
Congratulations and we are so proud of Jeff and all he does for the Houston Symphony League.
Mary M. Fusillo-2024 Crystal Cello Award Winner
Conversations with an Icon: A Symphony of Fashion, Community, and Impact
/in Event/by Tracie Welch-BrentonHouston’s cultural landscape is rich with events that blend elegance, philanthropy, and community engagement—but few do so as seamlessly as the Houston Symphony League’s Conversations with an Icon featuring Saks Fifth Avenue. This highly anticipated luncheon and fashion show is more than just a glamorous gathering; it serves as a vital bridge, connecting the arts to the community while raising funds that make a real difference.
Expanding Access to the Arts
Attending a world-class symphony performance is an experience like no other. Yet, for many in Houston, access to live orchestral music remains out of reach. The Houston Symphony League is dedicated to changing that. Funds raised from this event help bring the magic of live classical music to individuals of all ages and backgrounds, ensuring that the power of music transcends barriers and reaches a broader, more diverse audience.
Enhancing Music Education
Music has the power to inspire, and early exposure can shape a child’s lifelong appreciation for the arts. The League channels part of its funding into educational programs that introduce students—including those from underprivileged communities—to the world of music. Through these programs, young minds are exposed to popular and classical compositions, world-renowned conductors, and historical composers, nurturing the next generation of music lovers and performers.
The Healing Power of Music
Music does more than entertain—it heals. Through its Music Therapy and Outreach Program, the Houston Symphony League supports initiatives that bring live classical performances to hospitals, nursing homes, and home-bound patients. The therapeutic benefits of music have been well-documented, and these live performances by Houston Symphony Orchestra members provide comfort, relaxation, and even cognitive benefits to those in need.
More Than a Fashion Show—A Community Investment
When you attend Conversations with an Icon, you are not just supporting the arts—you are investing in education, inclusion, and well-being. Your participation helps create meaningful, lasting change in Houston’s cultural and social fabric.
Join us on March 26, 2025, at Houston Country Club for Conversations with an ICON, the intersection of fashion and philanthropy. Most importantly, help ensure that the beauty of music remains accessible to all.