Governing Members
Governing Membership offers a unique opportunity to engage with greatness through unparalleled access to the Chicago Symphony Orchestra and its artists. As the CSO’s first established philanthropic society, the Governing Members (GMs) have been dedicated to ensuring the Orchestra’s success since 1894.
Today’s Governing Members have a strong appreciation for the excellence of the Chicago Symphony Orchestra and enjoy getting to know others who share that enthusiasm and passion for the CSO. Members serve as advocates for the Chicago Symphony Orchestra Association in the Chicago area and beyond.
Each season, Governing Members provide more than $3 million in vital support, which enables the CSOA to:
- Pursue artistic excellence, develop new audiences and expand innovative educational and community engagement programs.
- Reach more than 500,000 people each year through live performances — including more than 45,000 students, teachers and families — in concert at Symphony Center and in communities across Chicago, the U.S. and the world.
- Partner with more than a dozen Chicago public elementary, middle and high schools, which receive in-school performances by CSO and Civic Orchestra musicians and take field trips to Symphony Center for School Concerts and Open Rehearsals.
With nearly 500 members, this dynamic group enjoys substantive, unique opportunities and access to a range of benefits and privileges that deepen their engagement with the CSOA.
VIP Ticket Service
Purchase and exchange tickets with ease through personalized assistance from VIP Services. This benefit includes priority status for ticket upgrades and wait lists.
Exclusive Member Events
Gain unique access to CSO musicians, leadership and guest artists through private performances, receptions and other events.
CSOA Patron Tours
Accompany the Orchestra on its highly anticipated national and international tours. Enjoy elite seamless travel with top guides, hotels and restaurants; interaction with CSO musicians at meals, receptions, casual parties and during sightseeing, and access to Patron Tour-exclusive insider activities.
Richard & Helen Thomas Club Membership
Dine at the CSOA’s private dining facility located on the 9th floor of Symphony Center. Enjoy exceptional cuisine, service and the convenience of dining in the Club prior to Main Series concerts. Learn more »
Member Recognition
See your membership support acknowledged in the CSO program book, on the CSO website and in the CSOA Annual Report.
Governance Privileges
Participate in governance of the CSOA at its Annual Meeting.
Volunteer Committees
Engage as a volunteer on GM committees responsible for member events, fundraising and membership. These committee opportunities help ensure that the GMs and the CSOA meet their goals and provide the best possible experience for members each season.
Executive Committee
GM Chair
Merrill Blau
Immediate Past Chair
Charles Emmons, Jr.
Vice Chair of Member Engagement
Judy Blau
Vice Chairs of the Annual Fund & Membership
Phyllis Bleck & Lisa Ross
More Information
Questions? Please call 312-294-3337.