Volunteer Q&A: Nancy Friedman

Why did you decide to join the League?

I joined the League of the CSOA after a conversation with a friend who was a League member. She spoke enthusiastically about her experience volunteering for what was then the Youth Auditions, now known as the Crain-Maling Foundation CSO Young Artists Competition. She also described how much she enjoyed the speakers and performances at League meetings as well as the many interesting individuals she had met through the League who shared her love of music and commitment to the CSO. I attended my first League meeting as her guest and made the decision to join before we arrived back home in Indiana that same day. From the moment I became a League member, I found myself surrounded by so many dynamic people and so many opportunities to support the CSOA. I can’t help but feel that I have gained more from the experience than I could ever give back.

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

One of the things that drew me to the League was the League’s commitment to music education. As a music educator, the Youth Auditions seemed to be a perfect place to start as a volunteer. I was immediately asked to serve on the camp scholarship subcommittee of the Youth Auditions. The camp scholarship chairperson at that time was passionate about and completely dedicated to this program which has, for years, sent deserving participants from the music competition to very high-caliber summer music programs. Her enthusiasm was contagious, and a year later, when she decided to step down as scholarship chair, I said yes to filling the opening. The heartfelt letters of appreciation we have received from the scholarship recipients through the years have made working on this project incredibly rewarding.

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

I have taken great joy in watching episodes from CSO for Kids with my grandchildren. Sharing these beautifully imagined musical experiences with my toddler grandchildren on FaceTime, when circumstances and distance have kept us apart, has given me an invaluable opportunity to introduce them to my love of music and the symphony. Seeing their little faces in rapt attention has made me feel that although I have not been able to take them to a concert, I have been able to bring the magic of music to them.

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

I am most looking forward to returning to Symphony Center. Through all the years that I have been a subscriber, I have felt that it is a tremendous privilege and thrill to hear the CSO in concert.

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

We are so fortunate to have this incredible orchestra in Chicago that enriches the lives of so many in myriad ways. Supporting the CSO and its programs not only helps to ensure that this treasure is here for us to enjoy in the present but will continue to be a source of joy and inspiration for many years to come.