Friends Association of the Symphony Orchestra (FASO)

2009-2010 FASO Board of Directors Front Row L-R: Jan Folse, Immediate Past President; Erin Kracht, President; Betty Steelman, Treasurer. Back Row L-R: Mary Bumann, Secretary; Susan Irza, Member-at-Large; Randi Mays-Knapp, 2nd Vice President; Zo Granberry, 3rd Vice President; Ellen Thornton, Member-at-Large; JoAnn Treat, Member-at-Large, Jeannie Miller, President Elect. Not pictured: Lou Ellen Ruesink, 1st Vice President.

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 it’s Silver Anniversary, serving the symphony for twenty five years!

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, and sometimes the family concert. 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. For information about joining the Friends Association of the Symphony Orchestra please contact Membership Chairperson, Lou Ellen Ruesink, at druesink@suddenlink.net.

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.