For many of us, we buy tickets and sit in our favorite seats. We buy some concessions and chat with friends, new and old, and we enjoy the truly wonderful experience of a full symphony orchestra right here on the Oregon Coast. Would you be surprised to learn that ticket sales account for only about 25% of the NSO's total income?
Orchestral concerts at the PAC incur an expense of about $30,000 each. Unless you've worked for an arts nonprofit, that expense is largely invisible. The money goes to pay for all the things that make the performance special:
- Musician Wages
- Gust Artists Wages
- Housing, Mileage, and Meals
- Facilities Rental and Staff Time
- Music Purchase and Rental
- Performance Staff:
- Stage Manager
- Music Librarian
- Orchestra Contractors
- and more!
All of these are worthy expenses that help the NSO produce high-quality orchestral performances. 25% of $30,000 is $7,500. So if 25% of the income is from Ticket Sales, where does the remaining $25,500 come from?
You.
We are able to make up some of the difference through various grants, foundations, and businesses, but the bulk of our operating revenue comes from individual donations. And we appreciate the help!
There are also a variety of programs the NSO offers in addition to the orchestral performances. We have Chamber Concerts. Several times each year, we present smaller ensembles in intimate settings for a more personal musical experience. We also have a dynamic and growing youth program. We have a private lesson program that has almost tripled in size in just the last two years, bringing string instruments into the lives of children and helping them realize the joy of music. We have youth orchestras, we have engagement events, we have deep roots in the community, and we are making a meaningful impact.
All these things carry a growing expense. Your help makes it possible for a student to have private lessons with little or no cost to the family. Your help makes it possible for our musicians to visit and perform at local libraries. Your help makes it all possible.
If you are interested in making a tax-deductible donation, please CLICK HERE. You can make a one-time donation for any amount, or you can set up a recurring donation so your gift has an ongoing impact.
We are truly grateful for our friends. We are lucky to count you among them.
