Merger
Frequently Asked Questions.
What does this merger mean for SFYSA?
SFYSA will become a part of the larger Santa Fe Symphony organization and retain its programs, staff, budget, and support. We will continue to provide outstanding music education for all, and we plan to expand our offerings in the coming years.
What does this merger mean for The Symphony?
The Symphony will continue its world-class performances at the Lensic and across Santa Fe. We will continue to provide all of our existing music education opportunities, including Cathedral Community Concerts, Discovery Concerts, Mentorship, Pueblo Chamber Concerts, and more.
What is the name of the merged organization?
The Santa Fe Symphony Orchestra & Chorus will continue on with our existing name, programs, staff, and musicians. The Santa Fe Youth Symphony Association will come under the umbrella of The Symphony and create a new department within The Symphony focused on Education and Community Engagement.
Where will the new organization be located?
The SFYSA staff and teachers will move in with The Symphony Team! We will share offices at The Symphony’s current location: 301 Griffin Street, entrance on Catron. This is the Enterprise Bank & Trust Building. We will be moving in together Summer 2024, exact date TBD.
What is the name of the merged organization?
The Santa Fe Symphony Orchestra & Chorus will continue on with our existing name, programs, staff, and musicians. The Santa Fe Youth Symphony Association will come under the umbrella of The Symphony and create a new department within The Symphony focused on Education and Community Engagement.
Why should I continue supporting SFYSA if it’s part of a different organization?
In order for SFYSA, The Symphony, and music education programs to succeed, we are counting on you to continue giving generously to support music education! We cannot educate 300+ students and provide free programming for 5,000+ Santa Feans each year without your gifts. Starting July 1, when we merge, you will be able to continue directly supporting SFYSA staff, teachers, and programs by giving to The Symphony and designating your gift for music education (or even a specific program).
My child currently attends classes with SFYSA. What will change for them/me?
The teachers, staff, and supporters of SFYSA will remain the same through the merger. Your child will continue to take classes or lessons through the end of this semester as planned. Starting with our enrollment for 2024-2025, you may see slight changes in our registration process or the look and feel of our website, etc., but the same people will be taking your calls and teaching your children. We’ll just be at a new location!
What will happen to the SFYSA and Symphony Boards?
The SFYSA and SFS Board members voted unanimously in favor of this merger. They view it as an exciting opportunity and step forward for both nonprofits. The Youth Symphony Board will join the Community & Education Committee of The Symphony, dedicated to overseeing educational programing and budgeting. The SFYSA Board will also appoint two members to the larger Santa Fe Symphony Board of Directors, to represent the former SFYSA.
I want to learn more about the merger as it unfolds. How can I?
You can attend a Town Hall meeting, the first of which is scheduled for Sunday, May 17, 2:30 PM at the Lensic. You can also ask questions or email merger@santafesymphony.org to be added to our mailing list. We will provide monthly updates until at least September 2024 to let you know how things are going.