Association of California Symphony Orchestras

Founded in 1969, the Association of California Symphony Orchestras (ACSO) is a service organization for orchestras throughout the state, including 22 organizations based in the Bay Area. Unlike its national counterpart, the American Symphony Orchestra League, ACSO’s membership consists primarily of small budget organizations. ACSO provides industry information, networking opportunities, professional development workshops and webinars and expert consultations to its members and its most popular offering is an annual statewide conference attracting over 200 delegates. Supported by the Hewlett Foundation since 1994 and on a current organizational budget of less than $300,000 ACSO is largely funded by membership dues and ongoing general operating support will allow the organization its long-time executive director Kris Sinclair to assist, educate and advocate for California classical music producers and presenters during a time of extreme economic turbulence. ($45,000/3; 5%)