Symphony Volunteer Council Profile - The Women's Committee of the Alabama Symphony Association was founded in 1948 by Mrs. W. B. (Lois) Pickard.  The Junior Women's Committee was founded in 1955.

In November 1993, the Executive Committee of the two volunteer groups that supported the Alabama Symphony Orchestra met at the request of the musician's orchestra committee. Together, they forged a plan for the volunteer organization to purchase the assets of the bankrupt Alabama Symphony Association. The liquidation hearing was scheduled, and ten visionary women in the volunteer organization secured a $50,000 personal loan. The musicians and volunteers appeared in court and purchased the assets, which also included the valuable music library.

Incorporated that month as The Alabama Symphonic Association, Inc., members of the volunteer organization became the interim trustees. The absence of an orchestra did not diminish the enthusiasm of these volunteers.

For the next two years, the Alabama Symphonic Association, led by a group of dedicated volunteers, worked on Decorators' ShowHouses, created and published KEYNOTES, the membership newsletter designed to keep the growing membership informed, and organized donated office space and supplies. The orchestra's financial prospects improved dramatically when Mr. Elton B. Stephens took a special interest in supporting these goals and accepted the position of Chairman of the Board of Directors. Under his leadership, an initial financial plan for a $10 million Endowment Fund and a $5 million annual Operating Fund, under a no-debt policy, was formulated.

Dr. Charles McCallum accepted the presidency of the Association in July 1996 and in March 1997, the Association named its first Executive Director. A full time staff to run the operation of the orchestra was quickly put in place. The planning for an inaugural concert season to begin September 1997 consumed all involved. In just four years, the rebirth of the symphony was a success. Richard Westerfield was named Music Director and Conductor in May 1998. The Alabama Symphony orchestra now looks to the future and the boundless opportunities in expanding its programs and activities in new and exciting ways.

The largest volunteer support group to the Alabama Symphony Orchestra is the Symphony Volunteer Council. It is organized to support the mission and activities of the Alabama Symphonic Association and the Alabama Symphony Orchestra. As the "rebirth" effort began in 1994-95, the Symphony Volunteer Council committed to raise $2,000,000 for the Endowment Fund and allocates proceeds from its annual Decorators' ShowHouse for that purpose. Our contribution presently stands at $1.7 million. The Council is also involved in various educational projects and other fund raising events, and stands ready to assist staff in various projects. The Council sponsors an annual competitive young artists Music Scholarship program.

There are several ways to participate in this exciting volunteer effort. You automatically show your support by joining as a member, and encouraging others to join. Members are encouraged to purchase season tickets to various concert series or attend as many concerts as possible. You can share your time, expertise and experience assisting with various Council projects, and help financially with donations for various special needs of the orchestra. There are several social functions scheduled throughout the year to meet and mix with other dedicated volunteers who share the same attachment to great music performed by our world-class orchestra.