2026 State of the Orchestra
A message from Marie-Hélène Bernard, President and CEO
Dear Friends,
As I reflect on 2025, it’s clear that the St. Louis Symphony Orchestra is thriving thanks to your incredible support. Welcoming you back to the renovated and expanded Powell Hall at the Jack C. Taylor Music Center in September was a defining moment in the history of our institution. Thank you for your continued engagement and enthusiasm during this time of remarkable transformation and growth.
In June 2025, our Board of Trustees approved a new Strategic Plan to guide the SLSO toward its 150th anniversary in 2030. An evolving roadmap, the plan is a comprehensive approach to artistic innovation, audience engagement and growth, and operational resilience as we shape the orchestra of the future in a changing environment. Acknowledging population and generational shifts in the region, the plan centers on deepening our audience relationships and expanding philanthropic support.
At this moment of notable institutional strength, I am confident in our ability to build on our momentum and broaden our impact for generations to come. With clear priorities and a focus on long-term vitality, the SLSO is well positioned to flourish as we approach 150 years and beyond.
The St. Louis Symphony Orchestra is distinctive among major American orchestras due to our:
– Commitment to actively listening to our community, adapting to developing needs, and offering a vast array of transformative experiences in a welcoming environment
– Ensemble of diverse, creative, and dynamic musicians; a music director known for his visionary storytelling and heartfelt interpretations; two choruses dedicated to advancing symphonic choral repertoire (Symphony Chorus) and to fostering appreciation for music from the African diaspora (IN UNISON Chorus)
– Innovative and inventive programming, stretching the boundaries of symphonic music
– Championing emerging talent and supporting ambitious and impactful education and community programs
– Consistent and steadfast philanthropic and community support
– Authentic work to foster a unified, inclusive, and people-centered culture
Along with other cultural institutions, we actively advance St. Louis as a global destination for music and culture, engaging audiences far beyond the concert hall through robust community partnerships. Unparalleled for its beauty and acoustics—and now equipped with amenities for the 21st century—Powell Hall at the Jack C. Taylor Music Center is one of the finest concert halls in the country and is redefining true access to music for all.
We are profoundly grateful to the many supporters who contributed nearly $174 million to our Music for All Campaign to support the capital project and grow the SLSO’s endowment, reflecting a deep belief in our mission and future.
Thank you for your trust and partnership as we continue to shape the role of an American orchestra in the 21st century. Guided by our values of integrity, innovation, collaboration, inclusion, and responsiveness, we look forward to sharing many extraordinary musical moments with you this year and long into the future.
With gratitude,
Marie-Hélène Bernard
President and CEO
