Volunteer Q&A: Judy Feldman

What inspires your love of music?

As I have heard Maestro Muti say, “music can save us.” I believe this is true from our experiences sitting in Orchestra Hall listening to our musicians with our friends, but I also believe it is true for the many activities the CSOA engages in with our outreach programs for all ages and in Chicagoland. Music can help cure many ills: societal, economic and health-related. When my husband and symphony partner died, I found great peace and restoration at Symphony Center listening to our Orchestra.

What drew you to the Chicago Symphony Orchestra?

Soon after my family relocated to Chicago, now more than 25 years ago, I received a call telling me that there was available a pair of Saturday night subscription tickets, center orchestra. We bought them and have been subscribers ever since.

Why did you decide to join the Women’s Board?

Over the years, we had made good friends at the Orchestra. First among them were Shelley Ochab and Chet Gougis. Shelley, now Women’s Board president, told me she thought I would enjoy the group, and she was right. I loved the opportunity to learn more about music, our Orchestra and the musicians. I have especially enjoyed the opportunity to travel with our musicians on tour.

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

Without a doubt, my most fulfilling experience was as chair of community engagement. I met with Negaunee Music Institute Director Jonathan McCormick and learned about the breadth and depth of activities the CSOA engages in to bring music and education to our community. I was so proud that in its infancy, the Orchestra — under the leadership of Music Director Frederick Stock — had put together the Civic Orchestra of Chicago, comprised of young professional musicians, and the family programs. We continue to build on these activities, started over a century ago, towards a more just Chicago. As part of our mission, our Women’s Board actively supports these efforts.

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

It is so hard to choose one moment. I have fond memories of our 125th anniversary celebration, including the Concert for Chicago with thousands in attendance in the pouring rain. I love all the Verdi operas with the Chorus and Orchestra filling the stage and Terrace and the amazing opera soloists. I also remember the concert and outpouring of affection at Maestro Muti’s return to La Scala with our Orchestra.

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

I have loved CSOtv. It is wonderful to see and hear our musicians onstage. I can’t wait to be back in Symphony Center to see them.

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

I can’t wait to be back in Symphony Center with my friends. I am imagining the magic of the music. I am sure I will be crying, especially if I am lucky enough to be at the opening concerts and hear our Orchestra play the “Star Spangled Banner.”

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

If music can transform our lives, and I believe it can, we have an obligation to maintain and grow the power and beauty of one of the world’s top orchestras. We need to help the CSOA with its work, with our work, to help Chicago grow and prosper.