ISSUED: 6 May 2015
MEDIA CONTACT: Valerie Owens
SHEPHERDSTOWN, WV — The Shepherd University Department of Music and the Friends of Music, Inc. jointly announce that at the end of the 2015 academic year the two organizations will end their existing partnership. Shepherd has made this decision to bring fundraising for the Department of Music within the control of the Shepherd University Foundation and the university’s Office of Advancement.
“This is an exciting time for both organizations,” said Shepherd President Suzanne Shipley. “The Friends of Music will be able to concentrate on its mission to promote musical excellence in the Eastern Panhandle community while the Department of Music builds its philanthropic program with the incoming vice president for university advancement.”
Dr. Jim Walker, Friends of Music president, said, “This community has come to love the Two Rivers Chamber Orchestra and other world class entertainment. The Friends of Music, Inc. is committed to bringing the orchestra to the local stage as usual.” Walker also noted that music director Jed Gaylin will continue in his role with the orchestra.
Shipley added that it is her “sincere hope that the home performance venue for the Two Rivers Chamber Orchestra continues to be the Frank Center.” University officials and representatives of the Friends of Music will work this summer to develop the details of this new relationship.
“The Friends of Music is a powerful force for the advancement of musical excellence in this region,” Shipley added. “The Department of Music and the Friends of Music have matured over the years and both have established unique visions for the future. It will be to the benefit of the community if each organization pursues its separate mission to enhance the cultural vitality of the region.”
Friends of Music President Walker also said, “We wish the Department of Music continued success and look forward to seeing the university community and all our patrons and friends at our concerts next season and in the future.”
Friends of Music can be reached at P.O. Box 220, Shepherdstown, WV 25443.
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