Friends Association of the Symphony Orchestra (FASO)

2010-2011 FASO Board of Directors Front Row L-R: Jeannie Miller, Past President; Jo Ann Treat, President; Erin Kracht, First Vice President Back Row L-R: Betty Steelman, Secretary; Mary Bumann, Treasurer; Alice Hoelscher, 3rd VP; Rhonda Raphael, Co-2nd VP; Margaret Touchstone, Member-at-Large; Jo Monroe, Member-at-Large Not pictured: Randi Mays-Knapp, Co-2nd VP; Linda Parrish, Member-at-Large; Jane Van Valkenburg, President Elect

The Friends Association of the Symphony Orchestra (FASO) provides much-needed support for the Brazos Valley Symphony Orchestra. FASO was formed in 1984 with 175 members eager to help the Brazos Valley Symphony Orchestra, then only three years old. This season, FASO celebrates 27 years of serving the symphony!

Each year FASO sponsors Children’s Concerts for some 5,000 area fourth and fifth grade students. In addition, FASO hosts the annual Brazos Valley Youth Concerto Competition. The winner of the competition is invited to play at the children’s concerts. The Symphony Belles Program for high school junior and senior girls enables girls to understand the “behind the scenes” production of the Symphony. The Belles usher at concerts and at times provide refreshments and snacks for the musicians.

Support for the Symphony is a major goal and the FASO membership contributes in volunteer hours, with generous contributions’ and with sponsorship of events to enhance the Symphony experience. Fund raising is an important part of its activities. We are proud to help the Symphony with its annual fundraising Derby Day event bringing in much needed dollars in our part of the silent and live auction.

The FASO Executive Committee meets regularly to organize and plan for ways to support the Symphony. Each year, FASO holds an Annual Meeting and Luncheon where the year’s accomplishments are recapped. This season, the FASO Annual Meeting will be held at Christopher’s World Grille, May 8, 2012, 11:30 AM. New Officers are put into place June 1st of each season.

The more members we have, the more we can accomplish. For information about joining the Friends Association of the Symphony Orchestra please e-mail the Membership Chairperson, Erin Kracht. You may also fill out a Membership Form and mail it in with your dues.

FASO’s Mission

Classical Music is an integral part of the cultural life of the community. The Friends Association of the Symphony Orchestra promotes, supports and assists the Brazos Valley Symphony Orchestra in educating and inspiring all citizens of the Brazos Valley to appreciate fine music.

History Of FASO

Inspiration to establish a support group for the Brazos Valley Symphony Orchestra originated at a regional conference of the American Symphony Orchestra League in San Antonio in April, 1984. At this meeting a delegation met representatives from several state auxiliary groups of the Texas Association of Symphony Orchestras (TASO), and became enthusiastic about starting a similar group in the Brazos Valley. An organizational meeting was held September 4, 1984 with 168 charter members. Peggy Samson was the first President from 1984-1987.