Photo: ASO Creative Partnership: Music Director Robert Spano, President and CEO Allison Vulgamore, and Principal Guest Conductor Donald Runnicles

December 2008

Music Lovers,

The Atlanta Symphony Orchestra is at the heart of the holidays each year. We are truly grateful to each and every one of you in our audiences. You inspire us to do our best: excellence in music, interactive music education opportunities, and vital contributions to the rich, cultural life of our city and state.

This month we are joined by The Coca-Cola Company to spread the joy of the season with eight holiday programs that have become beloved Atlanta traditions. The performances—from Handel’s Messiah and ASO Gospel Christmas to the traditional “Christmas with the ASO” — offer the unique sounds and traditions of the season. We are grateful to The Coca-Cola Company for adding to the festivities by “decking the halls” at the Arts Center with Coca-Cola holiday commemoratives — bound to transport you back to your childhood!

The ASO continues to celebrate, with great pride, the 15th Anniversary of our groundbreaking Talent Development Program, one of the fi rst initiatives by an American orchestra to nurture talented, young African-American and Latino students who desire to pursue classical music. Last month’s Symphony Ball, which benefi ts the ASO’s Learning Community programs, honored Mrs. Azira G. Hill for her legacy of leadership, dedication, and vision that inspired the formation of this important program. Already this milestone year is distinguished by a second TDP graduate securing a position with a professional orchestra, Cellist Ismail Akbar at the Augusta Symphony. Bassist Eric Thompson is currently with the Charlotte Symphony.

We are nurtured and inspired in these adapting times by your support and faith in our mission. May you find peace and tranquility in the music of the season and a shared renewal of spirit as we begin the New Year.

Joyfully,

Allison Vulgamore

President and Chief Executive Officer