The Columbus Symphony has a number of associate and fundraising groups whose members generously volunteer their time and talents to support our extensive schedule of concerts, community outreach activities, and education programs that serve thousands each year.
Symphony volunteers have opportunities to work and learn in a variety of behind-the-scenes environments, from working with students in music education programs to raising funds at special benefit events. You also have the chance to meet other people who share your love of symphonic music and your desire to make a difference in Columbus’ cultural life.
Committed to youth education, volunteer support, and fundraising, Friends of the Columbus Symphony, formerly known as the Women’s Association of the Columbus Symphony, traces its roots back to the orchestra’s founding. Dedicated women played a key role in promoting and garnering support for the orchestra, and today, this volunteer group is open to everyone who wishes to contribute to the flourishing success of our Symphony.
To enrich musical education, Friends organize activities before family concerts and raise funds to award a cash prize each spring to the senior division winner of the Young Musicians Competition. Additionally, the group coordinates annual appreciation luncheons and receptions for the musicians, staff and Symphony Chorus.
Four Quarterly general membership meetings are held on Saturdays during lunch with a fee charged for food service. Meetings rotate at various venues in the Columbus area and the programs include a Symphony-related speaker or musical performance.
As a friend, you can participate in activities such as:
New members are welcomed year-round. Annual dues are $40 per individual, $100 sustaining, and $75 per household.
Membership Contact: Joyce Toner, tonerj4444@gmail.com
The women of the Columbus Symphony League are a diverse group from a variety of professional and community service backgrounds. United by their love of music and enthusiasm for supporting the Columbus Symphony’s integral role in our community, the group established in 1981 has successfully raised over $1,500,000 for special CSO programming and music education opportunities.
The Columbus Symphony League has 7-8 General Membership and Social Meetings each year to build friendship and foster group appreciation of the arts. Meetings are held in members’ homes, country clubs, art venues, and special event locations.
For several years the Columbus Symphony League has held its annual fundraiser in various themed locations including members’ homes, showplace real estate, country clubs, and business and corporate office locations. Fundraisers have also been held at golf outings, garden tours, and fashion shows. The fundraisers generally include performances by Symphony members, an arts theme, and live and silent auctions. Ticket sales, underwriting, and auctions at fundraisers contribute to the majority of our support for the Columbus Symphony.
Membership Levels
*For all levels, annual dues are $50
Membership Requirements
Volunteering with the Columbus Symphony Orchestra’s 2025 Nationwide Picnic with the Pops offers a dynamic opportunity to support the arts while engaging with the community. Volunteers serve as ambassadors, ensuring guests receive exceptional service at outdoor summer concerts held at Columbus Commons. Roles are diverse, and benefits include free concert admission, complimentary parking, and the chance to earn tickets to future performances. Volunteers who participate in multiple events are invited to a special appreciation gathering, and one outstanding individual is honored annually with the Betty Fickell Volunteer of the Year Award. This program not only enriches Columbus’s cultural scene but also fosters meaningful connections among volunteers and patrons alike.
Sign ups for the 2025 season are now open.
Inviting our community to celebrate the legacy and beauty of music that entertains and brings us all together.
We provide meaningful outreach to LGBTQIA+ youth and families throughout central Ohio with symphonic music, and as a member of Columbus Symphony Pride, you will stand alongside a dedicated group of individuals who believe in the power and healing of music.
We are ready to share the transformative experience of live, symphonic music with you!
What we do:
EDUCATE the community about LGBTQIA+ contributions in music
EXPAND access, participation, & passion around the Columbus Symphony
NURTURE a supportive & collaborative community where we can grow & learn
REIGNITE the adventure in culture & the arts
SUSTAIN the community’s attendance & commitment to the Columbus Symphony
Benefits
*Ticket vouchers are subject to availability
** Discounted tickets are subject to availability and exclude special add-on events and movie-screening performances.
