SUPPORTING THE PHILHARMONIC SINCE 1954
THE GUILD
GUILD MEMBERSHIP
- Members meet nine times each year between September and May to enjoy performances by local music talent in beautiful homes of members, share news of upcoming events, fellowship, and lunch.
- Guild volunteers help coordinate out of town student seating for the Philharmonic’s Discover Music Children’s Concerts in October.
- The Guild plans and hosts the Philharmonic’s Heritage Gala as the organization's major fundraising event of the year.
- Members oversee the planning and execution of the Belles and Beaus program.
- For more information on the Guild please call our office at 325.677.6710 or email info@abilenephilharmonic.org
GUILD MEMBERSHIP
HOW TO JOIN BELLES & BEAUS
BELLES & BEAUS PROGRAM
GUILD MILESTONES
1953 - FOUNDING
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.