Donor Spotlight: Gary Werner

A love of music is often passed down between generations, and this is certainly a familiar tale among St. Louis Symphony Orchestra patrons.

Some of Gary Werner’s first classical music memories were formed listening to vinyl LPs on his parents’ console stereo in the 1960s. The score for NBC’s World War II naval documentary, Victory at Sea, was an early favorite, but Werner’s tastes would expand to absorb music from a vast array of composers, eras, and styles. His musical explorations also led him to the SLSO, where he began volunteering in the 1990s.

“The symphony has given me many wonderful evenings, meaningful experiences, and friendships over the years,” he said.

Attending SLSO concerts affirmed Werner’s lifelong conviction that music has the power to bring us together. “I love the way the symphony brings people together through music,” he said. “It isn’t limited to classical music, it welcomes jazz, Broadway, and other artists and gives people many different ways to experience music together.” 

Maximizing access to music is an essential part of that story, Werner said. “I think the symphony does an excellent job of bringing people into the hall and making music accessible to everyone,” he added. 

By joining the SLSO’s Legacy Circle, Werner has planned to include a gift in his estate that will enable future generations to enjoy the power of music. “There is simply nothing like hearing a live orchestra,” Werner said. 

“Including the symphony in my legacy is a way for me to help ensure that the organization and the experience of live orchestral music will continue for future generations.”

Compiled by Iain Shaw.