ABILENE PHILHARMONIC

SUPPORTING THE PHILHARMONIC SINCE 1954

THE GUILD

The Abilene Philharmonic Guild was founded in 1954 in an effort to support the Abilene Philharmonic through volunteering, fundraising, and friend-raising. A separate 501(c)3 organization, Membership in the Guild is open to anyone who supports and promotes the interest and growth of the Abilene Philharmonic Orchestra.

GUILD MEMBERSHIP

The Abilene Philharmonic Guild supports the APO through volunteering, fundraising, and friend-raising. This special group meets monthly and also coordinates the Belle and Beau usher program.
Membership to the Philharmonic Guild is $50 a year and you must have an active Philharmonic season subscription.

GUILD MEMBERSHIP

HOW TO JOIN BELLES & BEAUS

Belles and Beaus can join as early as their 8th grade year. Sign-ups start in March with two informational sessions in April and May.
If your son or daughter are interested in joining the Belle or Beau program please contact our office at 325.677.6710 or email info@abilenephilharmonic.org

BELLES & BEAUS PROGRAM

The Belles and Beaus is a group of young men and women that support the Abilene Philharmonic Orchestra and its Guild. The participants volunteer by ushering during Philharmonic concerts and events. They also serve as volunteers at the Heritage Gala and brunch. Belles and Beaus participate in the program while in the 8th thru 12th grades. The program is comprised of students from Abilene ISD, Wylie IS, private schools, home schools, and other surrounding area schools.

GUILD MILESTONES

1953 - FOUNDING

The Abilene Philharmonic Guild was founded in 1953 as the Symphony League. With annual dues of only $3.00, it was organized by 15 ladies with the purpose of supporting the Symphony Orchestra. The Abilene Philharmonic Guild was formally organized as a separate 501(c)3 in 1954 with a membership of 75 ladies and an independent Board of Directors. In 1961, the first Philharmonic Ball was held at the elegant Abilene Country Club and continues to serve as the Symphony’s annual fundraising event even to this day.

1955 - DISCOVER MUSIC

In 1955, Patty Taliaferro created the annual Discover Music Children’s Concerts with the purpose of educating and inspiring through live symphony orchestra performances. The first concerts were attended by only third grade students, but the program quickly expanded to include students in grades three through five as well as special education and home school students. These students come from the city of Abilene and the surrounding big country.

1969 - THE TEMPOETTES

In 1969, the Tempoettes were organized to give young women volunteer opportunities to serve as ushers during concerts and other Guild activities. As the “face of the Philharmonic”, the members of the Tempoettes grew to have a reputation of excellence in academics, sports, music, and community service.

1971 - CIVIC CENTER

In 1971, the Annual Ball was moved to the Abilene Civic Center along with the introduction of the afternoon teas, for those who were unable to attend the ball but still wanted to enjoy the atmosphere created by the decoration committee. The Guild has always taken great pride in being known for creating the most elegant fundraising decor of all city events.

2005 - NEW FIRSTS

The year 2005 brought many firsts. The Tempoette program changed its name to the Belles and Beaus to allow young men of high school age to take part in the program. Also the Annual Ball changed its title to the Gold Medallion Ball, to incorporate the Grande Dame, Noble Gold, and Golden Charm honorees. In addition, a scholarship program was created to award a gold, silver, and bronze scholarship to three deserving Belles or Beaus.

CONTINUATION

Many extraordinary women in and around Abilene have worked to fulfill the mission of those first fifteen women. These enthusiastic and dedicated volunteers, along with the support of the community generously contribute to the Philharmonic and stimulate interest and appreciation for symphonic music.

ABILENE PHILHARMONIC