Bozeman Symphony Receives $301,500 Grant from Murdock Trust
Bozeman, Mont. – The Bozeman Symphony recently received a three-year grant totaling $301,500 from the M.J. Murdock Charitable Trust of Vancouver, Wash. This grant will significantly enhance the Symphony’s philanthropic efforts, enabling significant growth and sustainability for the organization.
“We are deeply honored and grateful to receive this generous support from the Murdock Charitable Trust,” said Jacob Blaser, Executive Director of the Bozeman Symphony and Symphonic Choir. “This funding is instrumental in establishing our first dedicated development program. With the addition of a Director of Development, we will be better positioned to advance our mission, broaden our impact, and enrich our community. We are excited to see the positive impact this will have on our community and the future of this outstanding arts and cultural organization.”
Blaser explained that the phased grant will provide full salary funding for the new position in the first year, two-thirds in the second year, and one-third in the third year. He expressed gratitude for the Trust’s recognition of the Symphony’s commitment to delivering exceptional live music to Southwest Montana and for supporting the orchestra’s expansion efforts.
Ben Phinney, Board Chair, remarked, “The Bozeman Symphony has played a critical role in the cultural and economic landscape of Southwest Montana for decades. This grant builds upon previous work between our board and the Murdock Trust and represents a significant advancement for our organization. Historically, our fundraising efforts have depended heavily on our board, staff, and volunteers. This grant will enable us to build a dedicated development team and grow alongside the vibrant Bozeman community.”
This spring, the Bozeman Symphony announced its strategic growth plan, “Music that Moves Us,” outlining ambitious goals for the next five years. The plan includes expanding classical and popular programming, investing in musicians and staff, enhancing education and community engagement, and increasing live performances beyond Bozeman. The new development position will be crucial in building the Symphony's financial capacity and ensuring a more robust and sustainable future.
For more information about the Bozeman Symphony and upcoming performances, please visit bozemansymphony.org.
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About the Murdock Trust M.J. Murdock Charitable Trust, created by the will of the late Melvin J. (Jack) Murdock, provides grants to organizations in five states of the Pacific Northwest—Alaska, Idaho, Montana, Oregon, and Washington—that seek to strengthen the region’s educational and cultural base in creative and sustainable ways.
About the Bozeman Symphony The Bozeman Symphony is one of the area’s most highly regarded performing arts organizations. Each season, conducted under Maestro Norman Huynh, includes an exciting Classical concert series; the Bozeman Symphony Presents Series of pops, jazz, and movie scores; and Bozeman Symphonic Choir concerts. The Bozeman Symphony also shares the power of music through community engagement performances including its Far Afield program; Symphony Storytime and KinderKonzerts for youth; and other community access programs.
August 7, 2024
Contact: Peggy Stebbins
Office: 406.585.9774 ext. 106
peggy@bozemansymphony.org