After 75 years of offering classical music in Tacoma, the Tacoma Philharmonic is merging into the Broadway Center for Performing Arts, the nonprofit organization that manages the City of Tacoma’s downtown theaters.
The BCPA will now present the Philharmonic’s current classical series and educational programs under its own umbrella and management, as well as manage the Philharmonic endowment and welcome Philharmonic trustees to the BCPA board.
The merger begins April 30, and follows a trial period of joint presentation prompted when Tacoma Philharmonic executive director Andy Wood left early last year. Both boards voted unanimously to merge.
“The BCPA and Tacoma Philharmonic are both leaders in presenting world-class performances,” said Broadway Center’s executive director David Fischer in a press release. “This decision will allow both organizations to preserve what matters most – continuing great programs.”
Fischer cited lowering operating costs as another reason for the merger. “As the economy improves, lower administrative and operating costs will provide the best environment for future growth,” he said.
Philharmonic board president Barry Benson noted that as both organizations have a similar role and mission, the combination will “benefit the community in a big way.” Some Philharmonic board members will join the BCPA board or classical music sub-committees.
Over the course of its history, the Tacoma Philharmonic has changed from an independent orchestra, to a combined orchestra with the Seattle symphony, to a presenter of touring classical musicians and, in the last few years, children’s concerts. This year’s four-concert season has included violinist Joshua Bell and the upcoming Cypress String Quartet program on Feb. 18. The organization also sponsors the annual Beatrice Hermann Young Artists Competition and K-12 education programs.
After the Philharmonic decided to release all its employees early last year, including director Wood, the board began to work with the Broadway Center to have it manage and market the season. After the upcoming merger, the Philharmonic will cease to exist as a nonprofit organization.
The BCPA will also manage the Philharmonic’s endowment, which currently stands at $600,000, as a separate entity in its accounts. Donors may continue to give specifically to the endowment, which will support the presentation of classical music in Tacoma.
The two groups will hold a “Wedding Ceremony” on May 18 at the Fircrest Country Club to celebrate the merger. For more information, call 253-591-5894 or visit www.tacomaphilharmonic.org.
Rosemary Ponnekanti: 253-597-8568
rosemary.ponnekanti@thenewstribune.com
blog.thenewstribune.com/arts
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