FASO Programs & Events | Brazos Valley Symphony Orchestra
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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 in the Brazos Valley to appreciate fine music.

About FASO

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 39 years of serving the symphony!

FASO members support the Symphony by attending concerts, hosting receptions to enhance the symphony experience, and fundraising through Derby Day, Premiere Market and other special events.

Each year FASO sponsors Children’s Concerts for nearly 3,000 area fourth and fifth grade students, and hosts the annual Brazos Valley Youth Concerto Competition. The winner of the competition is invited to play at the children’s concerts and represents our community in the prestigious Juanita Miller Concerto Competition held each January in Dallas.

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. New Officers begin their terms on  June 1st of each season.

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 from Brazos County met representatives from several state auxiliary groups of the Texas Association for Symphony Orchestras (TASO), and became enthusiastic about organizing 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.

Become a Member!

FASO welcomes new members at any time. For information about joining the Friends Association of the Symphony Orchestra, please e-mail the Symphony Office and they will have a FASO Representative contact you. You may also fill out a Membership Form and mail it in with your dues.

brazos valley orchestra performing at school

Symphony Belles Program

The Symphony Belles Program for high school junior and senior women enables them to understand the behind the scenes production of the Symphony. The Belles usher at concerts, provide refreshments and snacks for the musicians, and participate in community service activities.

Children's Concerts

The area’s premiere cultural & educational experience for nearly 3,000 area fourth and fifth grade students.

bvso childrens concert
brazos valley orchestra performing with student

Youth Concerto Competition

Music students throughout the area are invited each fall to submit their performances of any movement from any concerto. Marcelo Bussiki, Music Director and Conductor of the BVSO, will then select finalists using a blind selection process.

Donate to FASO

Make a donation to our organization and help us create a better future for the BVSO. Your support will have a direct and meaningful impact.

bvso conductor shaking hands with young man
FASO Board of Directors

President 

Sandy Farris

President-Elect

Becky Hall

Past President

Sue Lee

1st Vice President

Sinead Dunne

2nd Vice President

Jennifer Wood

3rd Vice President

Julie Flores

Secretary

Beth Pennebaker

Treasurer

Anne Prescott

TASO Representative

Alice Hoelscher

Members-at-Large

Karen Melvin, Julia Beazer, Kathy Brewer