Powell Hall Project Elevates St. Louis Globally, Says Board Member

Some of Mark Throdahl’s fondest childhood memories growing up in St. Louis include going to St. Louis Symphony Orchestra concerts at the Kiel Opera House—now Stifel Theatre—with his parents. He recalls early concerts at Powell Hall, especially when Leonard Bernstein made a surprise appearance in the audience for performances of his Symphony No. 1, “Jeremiah.”

Throdahl, currently the Executive Chairman of the Board of OrthoPediatrics, met his wife, Sudie, in St. Louis before moving away in 1988. Over the course of 30 years, they lived in the suburbs of New York City, Tokyo, and London, though they continually returned to St. Louis to visit family. Ten years ago, they decided to move back. 

Reestablishing St. Louis as home has been “fascinating,” explained Throdahl. “On one hand, it looks the same, but of course, it has changed. I’m glad we had the experience that we did living in some of the great cities of the world, but at the same time, I’m grateful that St. Louis is such an easy place to live.”

Rediscovering the SLSO and the region’s other exceptional have become favorite activities since moving back.

“They are as good as it gets,” Throdahl said. “Organizations in the other cities we’ve lived pale in comparison to some of St. Louis’ magnificent organizations.”

Throdahl was elected to the SLSO Board of Trustees in spring 2024. His involvement with the SLSO is rooted in his belief that the orchestra is one of the great civic assets of St. Louis.

“There is a fan-based loyalty the orchestra has that is not unlike that of the Cardinals. I’ve never been in an audience that cheers for the orchestra more and that gives as many standing ovations. It’s very touching,” he said.

Throdahl has a deep appreciation of music and the musicality of the SLSO.

“I’m struck by the consistency of the quality of the performances,” he said. “I’ve never heard the SLSO have an off night. I think you can see how engaged the performers are. I think it’s quite extraordinary.”

He credits Stéphane Denève, The Joseph and Emily Rauh Pulitzer Music Director, for making music accessible to our community.

“I think it’s interesting that he begins many concerts with a new work, which keeps the concerts fresh” Throdahl said. “The audience trusts Stéphane and his musical taste, and love his beautiful introductions—which are genuine and approachable, striking the perfect tone.”

Throdahl sees the opening of the Jack C. Taylor Music Center—with the renovation of Powell Hall at its heart—as a historic opportunity that will position the SLSO to serve future generations. The addition of the Education and Learning Center will enhance the orchestra’s work in developing young audiences.

“It builds on a belief I have that music can unify people and improve society,” he said. 

Throdahl believes that philanthropy and supporting the institutions we value is an act of civic leadership and a necessity in the United States. “To me, philanthropy is a tangible manifestation of your loyalty to institutions that matter,” says Throdahl. “I think St. Louis, historically, has been blessed by many people who have felt the same way and have been remarkably generous. It’s why we have these world-class institutions as a part of our everyday lives.”