Volunteer Q&A: Sharon Mitchell

What inspires your love of music?

The power of music has enriched all aspects of my life. Now, as a senior, all things CSO inspire me. As a child, growing up in a small, deprived, rural community, music gave me an identity and hope.

What drew you to the Chicago Symphony Orchestra?

As a teenager, my music teacher often spoke about the CSO. When my husband and I moved to Chicago in the early 90’s, the hospital in New York gave us a subscription to the CSO as a going-away gift. Everything my teacher spoke about was true and more! Later, we retired to Chicago from NYC because of the CSO.

Why did you decide to join the League?

A friend of mine introduced me to the League, knowing of my love of the CSO. I attended an Annual Meeting and was so impressed with the energy, commitment and fellowship that I joined. I only wished that I had known about the League sooner.

What is one of the most fulfilling activities or events that you have been part of during your time with the League?

There are many; my first Musicians Luncheon stands out as a highlight. However, my most rewarding project was the holiday card and contribution project completed this past December. Each CSO musician received a holiday message from a League member, and a contribution was made in the honor of the musician.

Do you have a favorite concert or other memory of the CSO?

There are so many; I often say to my husband at the end of a CSO performance, “If only (the composer highlighted) could have come back for just another hour to have heard this performance.” However, two stand out in my mind and my heart. One, the Shostakovich Festival held in 1999. Given that my husband and I have traveled the world to hear Shostakovich, we were thrilled when the CSO had the festival. Who plays his music better? Twelve glorious concerts with Rostropovich himself! The second is the opening concert at Carnegie Hall with Maestro Muti performing Orff’s Carmina burana in 2012. Having been a season ticket holder for years at Carnegie Hall, I was quite familiar with the ambush for the exits about five to 10 minutes before most concerts end. This evening, no one moved, and at the finish, there was complete silence and then the most robust applause I had ever heard in this historic hall. I was bursting with pride for my beloved CSO and the maestro.

How have you kept music part of your life over the past year?

I have listened to a CSO recording at least once a day, and we always enjoy classical music during dinner. I have also participated in the Sounds of Celebration and Fall in Love with Music virtual events, as well as streaming many other CSO concerts. Additionally, the League has kept many of us busy working for the future of the CSO. I have especially appreciated the participation of many of the CSO musicians in the League’s and other community Zoom programs during this difficult year. They are treasures.

What are you most looking forward to when the CSO returns to live concerts?

Seeing the joy in the eyes of the musicians to be back in Orchestra Hall, playing as an ensemble. The most thrilling will be to feel, see and hear the music played by our esteemed musicians and our beloved Maestro Muti. What a love affair there is in that magical union.

Why do you believe it is important for volunteers, donors and patrons to support the CSO?

It is our responsibility to assist the CSOA in serving and promoting this great orchestra and its global mission and future. We set the example for others, especially through exposing, encouraging and educating future audiences!