As a two-year service-oriented program, the goal of the Symphony Belles is to provide opportunities for young women to enhance their social skills, to be exposed to and support the Brazos Valley Symphony Orchestra and its patrons, and to practice communication skills. Membership is open to high school junior and senior women attending a public, private, or home high school in the Brazos Valley. Typically, women enter the program the summer before their junior year and are Belles for their junior and senior years. The Belles program is not intended to add to the already busy schedule most women have; it is intended to enhance their schedule. The commitment is not overwhelming as the group typically meets only once a month for 1-2 hours. Most of the volunteer opportunities and seminars are held on Sunday afternoons in a variety of venues around town.

Senior Belles with two years of Belle service are eligible to compete for one of five different scholarships. There are two $1000.00 scholarships and three $500 scholarships.

The Founder’s Scholarship $1,000 

(Given by Gaines West and David Gardner in honor of their wives, Susan and Julia who established the Symphony Belle Program.)

Lee Wells Frericks Volunteer Scholarship $1,000 

(Given by Marti Marberry in honor of her mother in honor of the Symphony Belle who exemplifies extraordinary volunteerism and leadership in the Symphony Belle program.)

The Connie Wortham Memorial Scholarship $500 

(Given in memory of long-time Belle supporter Connie Wortham. (FASO Board)

Edith Eve Redfield Memorial Scholarship $500 

(Given by Taylor and Cindy Craigen in memory of her Aunt Edith)

Dottie Schloss Scholarship $500 (Given by Dottie Schloss) (Cindy Craigen)

The recipients of each of these scholarships are selected based on service to the Belles and to the Community, their application, and an essay. Belles must have participated in the program for two years in order to apply for scholarships.

For more information contact Jennifer Wood at bvsymphonybelles@gmail.com