The League
Become a part of the Chicago Symphony Orchestra Association family! Members of the League of the CSOA are passionate ambassadors, volunteering through a wide range of activities.
Classic, classy and world-class — that’s Chicago’s own CSO! But what’s behind the baton? Since 1934, the League of the Chicago Symphony Orchestra Association has worked behind the scenes to serve and support our renowned symphonic institution.
Composed of more than 250 members, the League offers many musical education programs for youth and adults alike, creates fundraising events that top the million-dollar mark, hosts diverse and elegant salons and seminars and showcases opportunities to meet a global assortment of musicians, conductors and artists.
Whether your goal is concert subscriber, program planner, project leader, financial supporter or all-round volunteer, the League of the Chicago Symphony Orchestra Association needs you. With audiences around the globe, music will always be the universal language — so help spread the word! Be a part of something spectacular: Join the League today!
Corporate Night
Corporate Night is a fundraising event presented in partnership by the Chicago Symphony Orchestra Association and the League of the CSOA. Proceeds benefit the Chicago Symphony Orchestra’s artistic, educational and community engagement programs in Chicago and across the globe.
On Tuesday, June 4, 2024, this year's concert will feature iconic music from the ageless James Bond movie franchise, including hits from Skyfall, Goldfinger, Diamonds Are Forever and more. John Morris Russell conducts the Chicago Symphony Orchestra alongside Broadway star and vocal powerhouse Capathia Jenkins in this salute to the notorious secret agent.
Enhance your evening by purchasing the event package, which includes preconcert drinks and bites plus prime seating at the concert. Ample food stations will feature cuisine inspired by the locales and themes of the James Bond movies, and fully stocked bars will serve specialty themed cocktails. This year's event is co-chaired by League members Liz Branch and Jessica Erickson.
Programs of the League
Programs of the League span music appreciation, fundraising and education. Our members are passionate ambassadors volunteering for a wide range of activities. Here are just a few of the many programs:
- The signature Fall in Love with Music Luncheon featuring a CSO guest artist.
- The annual Musicians’ Luncheon that honors CSO musicians.
- Annual sponsorship of a Civic Orchestra of Chicago musician.
- Adventures in Music partnership program, which provides school and community organizations with access to CSO educational resources and CSO for Kids: Family Matinee concerts.
- The Crain-Maling Foundation CSO Young Artists Competition, which showcases the talents of Illinois’ most exceptional young soloists.
- Docent Program in which a CSO volunteer prepares students for concert attendance and appreciation of symphonic music.
- Area Engagement Events that provide opportunities for fellowship and audience-building in local communities.
- And many more!
Membership Benefits
- VIP Ticket Service
- Opportunities to meet world-class artists
- Voting privileges
- Subscription to the League’s newsletter, Opus
- Invitation to hear talented student musicians at the Crain-Maling Foundation CSO Young Artists Competition
- Invitation to an exclusive luncheon with CSO musicians
- Invitation to Appreciation Week, an annual complimentary event
- Invitation to the CSOA’s Annual Meeting
- Advance sales to CSOA fundraising events
- Member discount at The Symphony Store
- Access to the Music Resource Library, including books and CDs
Membership Requirements
- Pay annual dues of $150
- Contribute $150 or more to the CSO Annual Fund (tax-deductible)
- Support the CSO through concert attendance
- Join one or more League committees that plan programs
- Financially support one League fundraising event
- Attend a League meeting (Formal meetings occur three times per season, combining a business meeting and musical program.)
Become a Member
To join the League, please complete the membership form and return via email or mail. Contact information can be found on the form.
League Event Calendar
Stay up to date on all League happenings by visiting us on Facebook.
Executive Committee
President
Sharon Mitchell
Vice President of Events
Eileen Conaghan
Vice President of Finance
Mary Beth Dietrick
Vice President of Fundraising
Sarah Good
Vice President of Membership
Janice Young
Vice President of Administration
Tracy Stanciel
Vice President of Education
Sue Bridge
Vice President of Outreach
Margo Oberman
Strategic Planning/Technology
Ted Tabe
Secretary
Kathy Nordmeyer
Members-at-Large
Merle Jacob, Allisa Gam
Learn more
Support the League
To make a League Annual Fund contribution, please follow the link below for credit card payment. Please choose “League Annual Fund” as the Gift Designation. Alternatively, you can send a separate check for each payment to:
League of the CSOA Office
220 S. Michigan Ave.
Chicago, IL, 60604-2559