25/26 Board Handbook by West Michigan Symphony

WEST MICHIGAN SYMPHONY

We are a catalyst for a music-infused West Michigan: leading, facilitating, connecting and collaborating with the community to stimulate cultural vibrancy, inclusivity and pride of place.

West Michigan Symphony connects and enriches our diverse community through the transformative power of music

We fulfill this primarily through three core offerings:

• Professional, live symphonic performances in a welcoming environment

• The Block, a gathering space that sparks curiosity, inspiration and fellowship through the shared experience of uncommon live music

• Music Education that enriches the lives of children and adults through exploration, participation and performance

SCOTT SPECK MUSIC DIRECTOR

Making music with Scott Speck is a joy for the mind and the body.

YO-YO MA

Now in his 22nd season as Music Director, Scott Speck is the co-author of three of the world’s best-selling books on classical music for a popular audience, Classical Music for Dummies, Ballet for Dummies and Opera for Dummies. These books have received stellar reviews in both the national and international press and have garnered enthusiastic endorsements from major American arts organizations.

In addition to WMS, Speck holds leadership positions with the Mobile Symphony (AL), Joffrey Ballet (IL), and Chicago Philharmonic and is a frequent collaborator with such illustrious artists as Yo-Yo Ma, Itzhak Perlman, Joshua Bell, and Renée Fleming. Although his work keeps him on the road, Scott regards Muskegon as home, where he lives in the Amazon apartments. When in Muskegon Speck gives unstintingly of himself, dividing his time between rehearsing the orchestra and reaching out to patrons to attract new audiences, garner support, and make classical music accessible to everyone.

Born in Boston, Speck is a Fulbright Scholar, a summa cum laude graduate of Yale University, and an Aspen Conducting Fellow. He is fluent in English, German and French, has a diploma in Italian, speaks Spanish and has a reading knowledge of Russian. Musicians respect him for his artistic excellence, courtesy and preparedness. The audience loves him for his warmth, friendliness, and the way he communicates and makes “classical music for everyone!”

Web: scottspeck.org

Twitter: ScottSpeck1

Facebook: facebook.com/ConductorScottSpeck

ABOUT WEST MICHIGAN SYMPHONY

An anchor cultural organization headquartered in Muskegon, WMS is a resident performing group at the Frauenthal Center, where its eight-concert season is the most visible part of a larger artistic enterprise of far-reaching community benefit. At its live listening room The Block, just down the street, it mounts 15 performance events annually featuring jazz, classical and “curious” offerings. WMS concerts and Community Music Encounters learning events bring 17,000 people—more than 30% of whom are children and students downtown annually, making it the largest performing arts organization on the West Shore. Audiences come from throughout Muskegon, Ottawa, Kent, Oceana and surrounding counties.

(continued)

(About WMS, continued)

The Mainstage Series at the Frauenthal Center features the 64-member symphony orchestra which, under Scott Speck’s cultivation, has mastered the full Classical-Romantic repertoire and performs at a level normally associated with much larger metropolitan areas. WMS players are professional musicians from Michigan and other states who make their living teaching and performing in a variety of orchestras and ensembles. This provides WMS with the energy and versatility so central to its artistic personality. The series also features guest artists of international profile whose visit often includes educational programs and other community activities. Their residency culminates with a performance or dual performances: a Friday evening concert with the orchestra at the Frauenthal Center and a Saturday evening solo appearance at The Block.

The Block is a 115-seat listening room for the musically curious located on the second floor of the Russell Block Building in downtown Muskegon. First opened in 2013, The Block in its second decade continues to grow and innovate artistically and as a community center. Its core 12-concert series includes regional, national and international artists as well as WMS musicians. During summer The Block hosts a sold-out jazz series featuring legendary regional drummer Tim Froncek and a changing cast of musician colleagues.

In addition to The Block’s primary performance series, it serves as the home for several WMS youth music ensembles: Debut Strings, Premier Strings and the Children’s Choir (see below). WMS makes the venue available for rental on open days or nights. For nonprofit community groups, rent is offered at reduced rates or waived entirely. Users include Third Coast Trombone Retreat, Muskegon Rotary, the Poppen Foundation, Harbor Hospice, Greater Muskegon Economic Development and the GVSU Piano Chamber Series, to name a few.

COMMUNITY MUSIC ENCOUNTERS

The organization reaches deeply into the community through a variety of learning activities and place-making projects to inspire the next generation of music lovers. Provided free or at very low cost to foster wide access, these programs impact more than 5,000 people annually from young children to adults, including students in 50 area schools spanning six counties.

CLICK CLACK MOOsic

CLICK CLACK MOOSIC

Based on books by Doreen Cronin and Betsy Lewin, this series introduces children ages 3-8 to instrumental music in a storybook format. A host/narrator introduces the small ensemble of WMS musicians, teaches the children about musical concepts, and then reads the story aloud—accompanied by incidental music written specially for the series.

Free in-school partnership with Carnegie Hall curriculum teaching 3-5 graders to read music and play recorders along with the Symphony. Link Up

Free after-school string orchestra program for underserved students in partnership with Muskegon Public Schools. Tune Up Choral program for children ages 8-13 with multiple performance opportunities, both stand alone and with West Michigan Symphony.

for young musicians with at least one to two years playing experience.

Community Music Encounters progression of offerings for children and youth.

WMS Children’s Choir

WMS’s unique musical storytime program for families with young children that introduces basic music concepts. Click Clack Moosic

Beginner to intermediate string orchestra program

Debut Strings

Intermediate to advanced string ensemble program with extended performance opportunities. Premier Strings

WEST MICHIGAN SYMPHONY

(Community Music Encounters, continued)

DEBUT AND PREMIER STRINGS

Debut Strings introduces beginning and intermediate students to string orchestra through challenging and diverse repertoire. Students who audition to join Debut Strings have one to two years of playing experience and strong note reading skills. Premier Strings is an advanced string orchestra whose players act as mentors to the Debut Strings members, represent the WMS’s learning programs throughout the community, and even perform on stage with WMS at the spring Link Up concert. Led by Angela Corbin, Orchestra Director at North Muskegon Public Schools, both ensembles rehearse weekly from September through May and prepare fall and spring performances.

CHILDREN’S CHOIR

WEST MICHIGAN SYMPHONY

CHILDREN’S CHOIR

Audition-based for children ages 8-13, the Children’s Choir performs in its own concerts, collaboratively with Debut and Premier Strings, and on stage with WMS during Home for the Holidays and Link Up. The choir rehearses weekly from September through May. Director Beth Slimko also leads the North Muskegon Public School choir program.

LINK UP

WEST MICHIGAN SYMPHONY

LINK UP

This beginner music education program pairs the orchestra with local community schools in six West Michigan counties. Students in grades 3-5 learn to read and play music on the recorder and gain an understanding of orchestral repertoire. They benefit from regular contact with Music Mentors: WMS musicians who visit classrooms to work with students and help them learn. The program culminates with an interactive concert at the Frauenthal Center during which the students perform on recorders along with the Symphony. More than 50 elementary schools participate each year.

TUNE UP

WEST MICHIGAN SYMPHONY

TUNE UP

Filling a gap in the local elementary education system, this beginning string orchestra program for underserved students was launched in the fall of 2022 in Muskegon elementary schools. Beginning in 3rd grade, students receive use of a musical instrument, learn to play that instrument, participate in ensemble and sectional lessons, build friendships, and receive instruction and support from experienced and dedicated teaching artists. Tune Up is embedded within the previously existing 21st CCLC IMPACT after school program.

LUNCH ‘N LEARN

WEST MICHIGAN SYMPHONY

LUNCH

‘N LEARN

Each season free Lunch ‘n Learn sessions invite the community to get better acquainted with upcoming concert repertoire by experiencing a live conversation with Music Director Scott Speck and an invited musician or guest artist. Lunch ‘n Learn is held in The Block at noon on Wednesdays prior to each of the five Masterworks concerts. Delicious small bites are provided. Everyone is invited, including those who already have tickets to the concert, those who are curious and want to learn more, downtown community businesses and area residents.

SYMPHONY SIDE-BY-SIDE

WEST MICHIGAN SYMPHONY

SIDE BY SIDE

Beginning in the summer of 2025, fans and community members who play an instrument—or used to—were invited to dust off their fiddles, flutes and horns for a day of music making side by side with members of WMS. Led by Scott Speck, the musicians—amateur and professional—gathered in the morning for sectional practice and in the afternoon for full orchestra rehearsal. The concert itself was free to the public and took place the same evening, with more than 1,000 people attending.

SYMPHONY SALON

Another new offering, Symphony Salon is an informal gathering for fellowship, entertainment and learning with Music Director Scott Speck and other WMS leaders. Held in private area homes, this free event includes drinks, hors d’oeuvres, and a special program, usually led by Scott Speck. It is a safe, non-threatening introduction to WMS to those who are curious but unfamiliar, as well as a way to build engagement and loyalty among core patrons.

WATCH MUSKEGON PLAY

WEST MICHIGAN SYMPHONY

WATCH

MUSKEGON PLAY

WMS collaborated with Muskegon Rotary and other community activists to bring all-weather outdoor musical instruments to Muskegon parks and throughout the downtown, with installation taking place in August and September 2020. Manufactured by Freenotes™ Harmony Park, these are durable, sustainable sound sculptures that enhance outdoor community spaces and are located throughout the Muskegon area.

WMS PRINCIPAL MUSICIANS

GENE HAHN Associate Concertmaster

MARK PORTOLESE Associate Principal – Violin 2

IGOR CETKOVIC Principal – Cello

ASAKO FURUOYA Principal – Oboe

EDWARD HICKMAN Principal – Trombone

JACIE ROBINSON Assistant Concertmaster

CARMEN ABELSON Assistant Principal – Violin 2

CAMERON SLAUGH Assistant Principal – Cello

ELIZABETH KAPITANIUK Principal – Clarinet

RILEY LINDSEY Principal – Tuba

ADAM LIEBERT Assistant Principal – Violin 1

ZIRALDO Principal – Viola

ROBERT JOHNSON Principal – Bass

CHLOE ROBBINS Principal – Bassoon

LEO TAYLOR Principal – Timpani

AMANDA DYKHOUSE Principal – Violin 2

REBECCA BOELZNER Associate Principal – Viola

NICHOLAS DE LAURENTIS Associate Principal – Bass

PAUL CLIFTON-O’DONNELL Principal – Horn

BECK Principal – Percussion

BUTLER Assistant Principal – Viola

JILL MARIE BROWN Principal – Flute

BILL BAXTRESSER Principal – Trumpet

NORRIS Principal – Harp

ARTURO

JASON

MATTHEW

SYLVIA

Music Director

Scott Speck

Mike & Kay Olthoff Endowed Chair

First Violin

Open concertmaster

Gene Hahn assc. concertmaster

Gust and Mary Theodore Danigelis

Endowed Chair

Jacie Robinson asst. concertmaster

ORCHESTRA ROSTER

Cello

Igor Cetkovic principal

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Kate Kesteloot Scarbrough, Chairperson

Retired Executive Director, Mediation & Restorative Services

A resident of Whitehall, Kate is an active community volunteer in West Michigan. In addition to her engagement with WMS, she is former chair of True North Community Services and active in Muskegon Rotary as a member of its DEI Committee. She has lent her expertise and experience in the not-for-profit sector to help guide WMS’s Audience Committee efforts to build patron loyalty. She is inspired by downtown Muskegon’s revitalization and believes WMS and the other arts and culture organizations play a vital role. Previously, Kate served as Executive Director of Mediation & Restorative Services.

Susan Cloutier Crain, Immediate Past Chairperson

Retired Executive Director, Disability Network

A West Michigan resident by birth and upbringing, Susan began attending WMS years ago, while working in a commuting job, as a way to stay connected to her beloved lakeshore community. Attending concerts and bringing friends has become an important part of her life and a way of self-enrichment. Past Executive Director of Disability Network/West Michigan, past president of Muskegon Rotary and former trustee of Harbor Hospice, Susan brings a community engagement sensibility to her work with WMS. Even before joining the WMS Board, she and her late husband Orville spearheaded the campaign to bring outdoor all-weather musical instruments to eight Muskegon parks. She has fostered an organization-wide focus on Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion.

Merica S Dobry, Secretary Senior Council, Warner Norcross + Judd LLP

Growing up with three brothers, Merica learned the art of negotiation early on; “you should be a lawyer!” was a frequent family refrain. Taking this advice, Merica attended Michigan State College of Law, launched a solo practice in the Muskegon area, and today is an attorney at Warner Norcross + Judd LLP, practicing in the trusts and estates field. She loves creating tailored solutions for her clients, preventing future headaches and fostering peace and ease. No stranger to the performing arts, Merica sang in the Smith College Glee Club and various community choirs, and is a veteran of Muskegon Civic Theatre. She met her husband Eric on the golf course, a sport they continue to enjoy together (her skill level gives him plenty of opportunity to practice patience). They also love to spend time at the beach with their two young children. Merica enjoys event planning, and also supports the Harbor Hospice Foundation and the Rotary Club of Muskegon as a volunteer.

Bob Garretson, Treasurer

CEO, Embark Financial Partners

A former Navy officer, Bob has lived and traveled to many places, but Muskegon is his favorite—and working to improve its quality of life is a strong passion. In 2019, he and his wife Heather moved back after several years in New York City; one of the primary draws was Muskegon’s vibrant arts scene, including WMS. He is CEO of Embark Financial Partners, a relatively new venture that he has been growing gradually since returning to Muskegon. Bob is a creative, energetic person who loves to generate ideas that bring people together. His special focus is to make the Symphony more visible, accessible and inclusive. His other great loves are his family, cooking, golfing and scuba diving.

Larry Fife

Retired Infotainment Director, Siemens and Continental Automotive

Larry grew up as a resident of Muskegon Heights and he and his wife Lynette moved back to their hometown after his retirement. Larry was a volunteer member of the WMS/Muskegon Rotary collaborative campaign to purchase and install permanent all-weather outdoor musical instruments throughout Muskegon and Muskegon Heights. He was inspired to join the Board due to his passion for music and his interest in furthering WMS youth education programs. Larry is a vocal proponent of WMS helping to connect the organization to neighborhood associations, city leaders, school board members and educators. He is a team player who wants to make sure the arts thrive and are accessible to everyone throughout the community.

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Amy Hosford General Manager, KN Literary Arts

A board member since 2021, one of Amy’s greatest joys is to share the live concert experience with friends, family, and first-time symphony attendees. Amy retired from Amazon in 2022 after a 23-year career in publishing, and subsequently launched Hosford House, LLC, a healing arts studio based in downtown Muskegon. She’s also the general manager of KN Literary Arts, a writing and book studio that supports authors. What motivates Amy to serve? “Muskegon is thriving! Each of us has the ability to shape the community we want to live in, and I want to live in a community that values and supports the Arts in its many forms and functions.”

Donna Joyce Advancement Director, DOOR International

A Muskegon native, Donna moved to the Lakeshore in 2018 from the Grand Rapids area, where she had a 21-year career in Advancement at Calvin University and served on numerous community boards. Following Calvin, Donna spent two years as a development officer for Muskegon Rescue Mission and currently works for DOOR International, an international ministry serving the Deaf. This experience, along with her interests in community engagement, philanthropy, and the arts, drew her to support the initiatives of WMS.

Stacy Mellema, CPA

Shareholder,

Hungerford

Stacy joined the firm in 2020 as a Senior Manager in the Assurance and Tax departments and became a shareholder in January of 2023. She specializes in assurance and accounting solutions services related to for-profit, not-for-profit, and employee benefit plan industries. Stacy earned a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration degree with accounting from Central Michigan University and has 24 years of public accounting experience and five years in the private industry. Stacy has served as the Director of Operations for a local not-for-profit organization and foundation for over five years. She is a member of the American Institute of CPAs (AICPA), Michigan Institute of CPAs (MICPA), former Treasurer for the United Way of the Lakeshore and a member of the Davenport University Accounting Advisory Board.

Jason Olthoff Vice President of Sales, Nichols

The West Michigan native found out early on that his path would run heavily through music and the arts. Jason spent the beginning part of his career performing and learning the backstage trade in Los Angeles. This led to a production specialty of over 25 Super Bowl halftime shows, three Opening and Closing Ceremonies and countless other special events. For 10 years he led a brand strategy and experiential marketing agency in Chicago, and is currently glad to be back in West Michigan as the VP of Sales for Nichols. Jason has served on the boards of Muskegon Civic Theater, The Block, The Young Americans and United Way of the Lakeshore.

Emma Peterson Director of Philanthropy, Trinity Health

As a youngster, Emma attended WMS concerts with her grandpa, Sterling, a longtime subscriber. Early in her career, she spent three years on the WMS staff as Finance Manager. She was a charter member of The Block Advisory Board and served as its Chair from 2019 through 2021. All four of her daughters have participated in the Debut Strings and Premier Strings ensemble programs, and one in Children’s Choir. With this level of engagement, it felt natural for Emma to join the WMS Board at the time of the merger of WMS and The Block. She sees WMS as an anchor organization of Muskegon and wants to help it continue, grow and adapt. Given the impact it has had on her family, she is particularly excited about the expansion of the education programs, especially the addition of Tune Up. Emma is the Director of Philanthropy at Trinity Health Muskegon where she loves working with donors, who she says “lift us up and allow us to do more.”

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Jennifer Ross

City Clerk, Muskegon Heights

Jennifer was eager to join the Board because of her love and passion for performing arts. She was especially inspired by WMS’s commitment to making music available throughout the community, including its most under-served schools. Jen brings a proven track record of community and cultural engagement, fundraising and event planning. This has included serving as vice chair of the Board of Muskegon Civic Theatre, former vice chair of the Community Development Block Grant committee for the City of Muskegon, and organizer for the annual West Michigan Juneteenth Celebration.

Ryan Sterkenburg, CTFA®, CISP®

VP / Senior Trust Administrator, Macatawa Bank

Upon relocating back to West Michigan several years ago, Ryan wanted to get behind an organization that was contributing to the growth and wellbeing of the community. When the opportunity came to join the board, he jumped in. Ryan is a VP / Senior Trust Administrator for Macatawa Bank, a Certified Trust and Financial Advisor (CTFA) and Certified IRA Services Professional (CISP). He has considerable experience assisting clients with intergenerational trusts, investment management, strategies for estate planning, wealth preservation, and risk management. In addition to WMS, Ryan volunteers with the Lake Michigan Estate Planning Council and the Rotary Club of Muskegon. Ryan and his wife Kris enjoy biking, hiking, golf, pickleball and pretty much anything outdoors.

Tom Trzaska

Director of Strategic Technology, RENK

A longtime patron and supporter of WWS, Tom accepted the invitation to join the Board because of his desire to make an even deeper contribution to its sustainment and growth. He brings the unique perspective of an engineer and a business professional, along with the willingness to challenge and ask hard questions. Tom is Director of Strategic Technology at Muskegon-based RENK America, the leading global supplier of mobility solutions for military combat vehicles, a company driven by a sense of pride and purpose in our country and our community. He is also an experienced volunteer with a variety of community benefit organizations, including serving currently on the boards of Muskegon Catholic Schools, North Muskegon Planning Commission and Parks & Recreation; and previously on the boards of Family Promise of the Lakeshore and Prince of Peace Catholic Community Finance Council.

BOARD OF DIRECTORS CONTACT LIST

Kate Kesteloot Scarbrough, Chairperson Term Expires: 25/26

Home:

1627 S. Lake Street p: (231) 288-2838 Whitehall, MI 49461 kmkkscarbrough@gmail.com

Retired Executive Director, Mediation & Restorative Services

Susan Cloutier Crain, Immediate Past Chairperson Term Expires: 23/24

Home:

349 Terrace Point Circle p: (231) 722-4930 Muskegon, MI 49440 c: (231) 282-1818 susancrainmkg@gmail.com

Retired Executive Director, Disability Network

Merica S. Dobry, Secretary Spouse: Eric Term Expires: 23/24

Home:

754 Mills Avenue c: (231) 750-4365 North Muskegon, MI 49445 Merica.dobry@gmail.com

Work:

Warner Norcross & Judd LLP w: (231) 727-2610

700 Terrace Point Road mdobry@wnj.com Suite 350 Muskegon, MI 49440

Bob Garretson, Treasurer Spouse: Heather Term Expires: 23/24

Home: 1727 Jefferson Street c: (616) 402-1905 Muskegon, MI 49441 rrgarretson@gmail.com

Work:

Embark Financial Partners

380 W Western Ave, Suite 250 Muskegon, MI 49440

Larry Fife

Spouse: Lynette Term Expires: 23/24

Home:

657 E Lincoln Ave p: (231) 220-9372

Muskegon Heights, MI 49444 c: (224) 501-0501 larryfife2102@comcast.net

Retired Infotainment Director, Siemens and Continental Automotive

Amy Hosford

Spouse: Allen

Home:

Term Expires: 23/24

339 Terrace Point Circle c: (231) 343-0996 Muskegon, MI 49440 amy.hosford@gmail.com

Donna Joyce

Term Expires: 25/26

Home: 6900 Windwater Court p: (616) 460-4390 Norton Shores, MI 49444

Work:

DOOR International w: (616) 741-7200 1142 44th Street SE donnajjoyce1@gmail.com Grand Rapids, MI 49508

Stacy Mellema

Term Expires: 26/27

Home: 4480 Greenfield Street c: (231) 329-4005 Norton Shores, MI 49441

Work:

Hungerford CPA + Advisors 4927 Stariha Drive Suite A w: (231) 798-7500 Norton Shores, MI 49441 smellema@ hungerfordnichols.com

Jason Olthoff

BOARD OF DIRECTORS CONTACT LIST

Spouse: Jayme Term Expires: 25/26

Home:

1570 Rood Point c: (231) 955-2838 Muskegon, MI 49441

Work:

VP Sales/Marketing, Nichols 1391 Judson Spring Lake, MI 48456

Emma Peterson

Spouse: Frank Term Expires: 23/24

Home:

1593 Jefferson St c: (231) 343-9066 Muskegon, MI 49441

Work:

Director of Philanthropy w: (231) 672-4814 Mercy Health emma.torresen@mercyhealth.com 1150 E Sherman Blvd Suite 2100 Muskegon, MI 49444

Jennifer Ross Term Expires: 26/27

Home:

693 Ada Ave c: (231) 903-9981 Muskegon, MI 49442 jenniferross1978@gmail.com

Work:

City Clerk w: (231) 733-8999

City of Muskegon Heights jross@muskegonheights.us 2724 Peck St. Muskegon, MI 49444

Ryan Sterkenburg Spouse: Kris Term Expires: 25/26

Home: 12585 Canterbury Ct, c: (231) 632-6645 Grand Haven, MI 47417 rsterk66@gmail.com

Work:

Personal Trust Administrator Senior VP | Wealth Management w: (616) 396-9134 Macatawa Bank rsterk66@gmail.com 141 East 8th St Holland, MI 49423

Tom Trzaska Spouse: Liz Term Expires: 26/27

Home: 1110 Lake Ave c: (231) 855-1533 North Muskegon tjtrzaska@aol.com Michigan 49445

Work:

Chief Engineer

RENK American w: (231) 724-2736 76 Getty St. thomas.trzaska@renk-america.com Muskegon, MI 49442

PROFILE & COMMITMENTS

The Board of Directors represents the public trust and serves as the governing body of the WMS. Its purpose is to safeguard the public interest and provide the resources that will enable WMS to deliver on its mission.

Responsibilities of the Board:

• Determine, periodically reassess, and maintain focus on the mission and vision

• Secure the financial support required to fulfill the mission and vision

• Review, approve and track budgets and plans

• Select, support and review the Music Director and CEO

• Engage in self-evaluation

• Select, onboard and review Board members

• Provide a supportive environment that empowers musicians, staff and volunteers

• Advocate on behalf of WMS

Responsibilities of individual Board members:

• Participate in governance by attending as many Board meetings as possible; serve on at least one Standing Committee; participate in discussions and make informed decisions; actively support majority decisions of the Board

• Purchase season tickets and attend as many concerts as possible

• Participate in the annual Gala by buying or selling a table

• Make the WMS a charitable priority by pledging or making a gift to the Annual Fund by September 30 (the end of the first quarter); this show of commitment and support is important to grant solicitation efforts

• Support WMS Fund Development programs and projects in ways best suited to you as an individual

• Serve as an advocate and ambassador on behalf of WMS in the community

• Become familiar with the artistic and educational footprint of WMS (concerts, learning and community engagement), its basic business model and revenue drivers

Our commitment to you:

In order to empower Board members to be successful, the leadership and staff commit to providing:

• Accurate and timely financial and operational reports

• Straightforward and clear answers to all questions

• Appropriate notice of meeting dates as well as advance information and meeting materials

• Advance notice of any significant news prior to its public release

• Information about industry trends, issues and best practices

ADMINISTRATION

Andy Buelow President / CEO

Andy has dedicated his professional life to revitalizing orchestras and building strong connections with patrons and communities. Since his arrival in 2018 he has fostered the development and adoption of Strategic, DEI and Artistic frameworks to guide the organization’s mission delivery, inclusion and concert curation. He has collaborated with Board leadership in revising and revitalizing governance and committee structures, expanded staffing in the areas of finance, audience development and community engagement, and led a campaign that increased the endowment and reserves to $5.5 million. Previously he led the orchestras in Tacoma and Traverse City and was a marketing and PR administrator with the Milwaukee Symphony Orchestra. Andy is a keyboardist, contemplative, sailor and Great Lakes historian. He and his wife Beth live in Muskegon and have a rustic cottage in the woods north of Traverse City.

Amanda Dykhouse Music Librarian

In addition to serving as music librarian since 2011, Amanda is Principal Second Violin of WMS and Concertmaster of the Holland Symphony Orchestra. She performs frequently throughout the area, including several appearances as a soloist with the HSO. She also plays regularly on the Free@3 recital series and the Chamber Music Festival of Saugatuck. She maintains a violin studio in Holland. Her students have won numerous local awards, including the HSO’s concerto competition, have appeared on the NPR program, “From the Top,” and have been admitted into highly competitive undergraduate music programs. In addition to her musical activities, Amanda has served as a pastor (RCA) at two churches in Holland. She attended Oberlin Conservatory and graduated with highest honors from Rice University in Houston, Texas, with degrees in music and religious studies.

Megan James Marketing & Design Manager

A graduate of Kendall College of Art and Design, Megan thrives in the creative process—from early-stage research, collaboration, and brainstorming to crafting layouts and graphic elements. As Marketing & Design Manager, she serves as a full-service in-house creative agency, overseeing visual communications, publications, digital marketing, and more—all to support and elevate the WMS brand. Megan lives in Shelby with her husband Michael and their son Thomas.

Karen Mueller O’Neill

Vice President of Development & Marketing

Karen’s 30-year career includes leadership roles in media consulting, education and the performing arts sectors. Her specialty is building, engaging and growing patron bases to create sustainable revenue streams. Prior to joining the WMS team, Karen led the marketing, ticket sales and communications efforts for two other professional American orchestras. Highlights of her twenty years as VP of Marketing and PR for the Grand Rapids Symphony include presenting the orchestra at Carnegie Hall and launching the outdoor Picnic Pops series. More recently, she led the marketing and patron experience initiatives of the Charlotte Symphony, serving on the leadership team responsible for the orchestra’s financial turnaround. Karen is a cellist rediscovering the joy of playing again after a long hiatus. She and her husband Jim live in Spring Lake, are serial home renovators, foodies and new grandparents. They enjoy gardening, golfing and taking walks with their golden retriever.

Maris Myers

Patron Services Manager

Maris Myers’ extensive passion for music and the arts has led to a lengthy career supporting arts organizations for over 40 years. After taking education at Davenport College and ONU Maris began working for the Frauenthal Theater taking on various roles from Ticket Manager, Stage Manager, and Front of House Manager. She transitioned her career to the Grand Rapids Symphony and continued to fulfill her love of people and the arts by running the ticket office. Now back in Muskegon, Maris holds the role of Patron Service Manager at the West Michigan Symphony. Her commitment to the arts has extended to many volunteering roles with the St Cecilia Great Artist series, Summer Celebration Festival and Irish and Unity Festivals in Muskegon. She is a multi-instrumentalist, playing the cornet, baritone, saxophone, and piano. She enjoys playing the euphonium at Festival of the Trees and singing in church.

ADMINISTRATION

Gabe Slimko

Vice President of Operations & Orchestra

Gabe is a graduate of Butler University, where he earned a BS in Arts Administration with a concentration in violin performance. A native of Grosse Pointe Park in Michigan, he has been working in the arts in West Michigan since 2001. He served as Development Director and International Program Assistant at Blue Lake Fine Arts Camp and was an intern with both the Dallas and Indianapolis symphonies. In 2010 Gabe joined WMS as Orchestra Personnel Manager and later Youth Symphony Manager. His current responsibilities span artistic planning and logistics for all WMS performances at the Frauenthal Center and The Block. Gabe has been involved with the community as a former member of the City of North Muskegon Planning Commission, a volunteer for the North Muskegon Public Schools Choir Program, and a youth sports coach. In his free time he enjoys boating, downhill skiing, travel, and home improvement projects. He lives in North Muskegon with his wife Beth and sons Logan and Jonas.

Lisa Tabaczka

Finance & Office Manager

Lisa holds a Bachelor of Business Administration from Muskegon College (now Baker College), beginning her career in cost accounting and transitioning to government/grant accounting. She was attracted to join the WMS team through her love of music and her eagerness to embrace a fresh challenge. As Finance & Office Manager, Lisa oversees day-to-day operations with functional responsibility for accounting, accounts payable and vendor relations, payroll and benefits, budget compliance and grants administration. Her responsibilities encompass production of financial reports, maintenance of accounting records and accurate processing of financial transactions. A quiet person who likes working behind the scenes, she enjoys helping make live music happen and attending the concerts. A native of Manistee, Lisa lives in Muskegon with her dog Ellie, an Australian Kelpie.

Karen Vander Zanden

Vice President of Community Learning & Engagement

For 20 years Karen has poured her passion for education and love of music into building a vibrant and robust array of education and community programs at West Michigan Symphony, all under the umbrella of the Community Music Encounters platform. Using her background in business and her musical experiences as a drummer, vocalist and educator, Karen has developed and now directs seven successful learning programs with a staff of five teaching artists. Her leadership of the Carnegie Hall Link Up program has provided over 75,000 students from 50 area elementary schools with free beginner music education since its 2004 launch. She created the popular Click Clack Moosic series of musical story-time shows for WMS and continues to find new ways to bring music to families and children. In her spare time Karen drums at church and in her family band with her husband, two sons and daughter-in-law; partners with her husband in working their organic farm; and spends as much time as possible outdoors.

ORGANIZATION CHART

ELEVATOR SPEECH

WHY LIVE MUSIC MATTERS

• Society has become fragmented. Live music brings people together to share beauty.

• People are hungry for authentic experiences of community. We provide a welcoming, inclusive gathering space.

• Muskegon is striving for year-round vibrancy. WMS brings 17,000 people downtown annually.

WHAT’S

SPECIAL ABOUT WMS

• A world-class conductor who is approachable, friendly and a fantastic communicator

• An amazing quality orchestra with professional musicians from multiple states

• Our orchestra can play it all: Classical, Jazz, Blues, Motown, Movies and more.

• Performances in a stunning historic renovated theater with warm, lush acoustics. (Scott Speck declares: “the finest concert hall between Chicago and Detroit!”)

• Learning programs that enrich students and adults through exploration, participation, and performance. (Carnegie Hall national education program administrators claim: “WMS is our poster child!”)

WHAT’S

UNIQUE ABOUT THE BLOCK

• A listening room for the musically curious—where every concert is immersive!

• Great sound, casual atmosphere where you can enjoy music with your favorite drink— and take in the sunset from the downtown’s only roof garden

• We book the artists but we don’t tell them what to play

• A mixture of jazz, classical, folk and crossover—you never know what you’ll hear

WHAT’S

VITAL ABOUT WMS COMMUNITY MUSIC ENCOUNTERS

• WMS Community Music Encounters take place in the concert hall, classroom and community for all ages—from toddlers to adults.

• It’s like a “Community Music Center” without walls.

• Studies show that music learning positively impacts a child’s self-esteem and emotional health.

• According to STEM Jobs Career Network, music strengthens memory, language, temporal reasoning and attention.

• Through the generous support of our donors and the community, we are able to provide these learning encounters free or at very little cost to schools and parents.

• We’re building a community of listening and learning—and it starts with the children.

COMMUNITY BUZZ

WHAT THE AUDIENCE SAYS ABOUT THE SYMPHONY

• “One of the cultural foundations of a developing Muskegon.”

• “I love how Scott Speck talks to the audience and help us understand the music.”

• “I am so proud of WMS and grateful to those who support its existence.”

• “We are so fortunate to have Scott Speck and the WMS in our community.”

THE BUZZ ABOUT THE BLOCK

• “So professional—I felt like I was sitting in a club in Chicago!”

• “The Block is a wonderful atmosphere where audience and musicians can interact.”

WHAT TEACHERS SAY ABOUT LINK UP

• “I work for an urban school where not many students are exposed to the arts. Link Up is very therapeutic for my students, as many of them have endured trauma at home.”

• “My students LOVED meeting the orchestra player that visited them this year. When the player was introduced at the concert they all cheered and were abuzz with excitement!”

• “Many of my students had never been to a performance hall or heard an orchestra before.”

WHAT PARENTS SAY ABOUT OUR YOUTH ENSEMBLES

• “Having our daughter be a part of the Children’s Choir has been great for expanding her love of music. There was never any hesitation in including her, despite her hearing challenges.”

• “Debut Strings offers a wonderful opportunity for our children to practice and perform music outside of school. By learning new pieces with student musicians from several area schools, they are challenged to grow in their playing.”

AUDIENCE COMMITTEE

Purpose:

Optimize audience development, experience, loyalty and retention.

Method:

Align organizational culture and resources toward retaining existing and attracting new audiences through creative promotional techniques, exemplary customer care and systematic engagement.

Type:

A standing committee of the Board

Membership:

The Committee will consist of not less than three nor more than five Board members and may be augmented by community ex officios providing needed competencies and expanded reach.

Committee Chairperson:

Appointed by the Board Chairperson

Activities & Responsibilities:

• Lead Board participation in audience engagement activities

• Collaborate with staff in annual audience development goal setting and planning and advocate for appropriate revenue goals in annual budget

• Ensure that audience building and retention goals and objectives in the Strategic Plan and DEI Framework are being continually reviewed and translated into ground level strategies and tactics

• Participate in single ticket, repeat buyer and subscriber cultivation, engagement and stewardship; encourage and empower other Board members to do the same

• Assist in brainstorming and executing ideas for effective and creative concert curation and promotions

Meetings:

Held monthly or as determined by issues and needs, on a schedule determined annually by the committee chair. The committee will maintain minutes and provide these to the full Board, and make reports and presentations to the Board periodically as needed.

Current Timing: 4:00pm on 2nd Mondays at WMS

Chair: Kate Kesteloot Scarbrough

COMMUNITY COMMITTEE

Purpose:

Foster community-wide relationships and engagement activities to build awareness, relevance and impact.

Type:

A standing committee of the Board

Membership:

The Committee will consist of not less than three nor more than five Board members and may be augmented by community ex officios providing needed competencies and expanded reach.

Committee Chairperson:

Appointed by the Board Chairperson

Activities & Responsibilities:

• Lead and participate in public affairs and community engagement activities, ensuring that organization is a collaborative, participatory, inclusive and relevant community resource

• Oversee effectiveness of WMS Community Music Encounters and DEI Framework and ensure consistency with organizational mission, vision and values

• Identify underserved areas in regional music ecology and, when appropriate, help to foster opportunities for WMS to extend service

Meetings:

Meetings held monthly or as determined by issues and needs, on a schedule determined annually by the chair. The committee will maintain minutes and provide these to the full Board, and will make reports and presentations to the Board periodically as needed.

Current Timing: 4:00pm on 2nd Wednesdays at WMS

Chair: Larry Fife & Ryan Sterkenburg

GOVERNANCE COMMITTEE

Purpose:

Ensuring the optimal and effective performance of the Board of Directors and its direct reports, the Music Director and CEO.

Type:

A standing committee of the Board

Membership:

Staffed primarily by Board members, the Committee may consist of not less than three nor more than five members and may be augmented by community ex officios providing needed competencies.

Chair:

Appointed by the Board Chairperson from among the slate of Officers

Activities & Responsibilities

• Establish and lead process for annual performance review and goal-setting for the Board as a collective and for individual members to enhance engagement, participation and impact

• Provide continual opportunities for Board development to ensure that members have the knowledge, skills and resources to fulfill their responsibilities

• Develop and recommend to full Board for approval an annual slate of nominees for all officer positions as required by organizational Bylaws, as well as chairmanship and membership of each committee.

• Develop and recommend to full Board new nominees for membership and term renewal for existing members to ensure continual refreshment of Board membership

• Regularly review and recommend updates of Bylaws, Policies & Procedures. Monitor on an ongoing basis organization’s adherence to these practices.

• Establish an inclusive and organization-wide process for performance reviews of both Music Director and CEO and ensure that this process is conducted annually.

• Ensure appropriate human resources policies and procedures that facilitate productivity, effectiveness and retention

• Ensure that Board operations are conducted in accordance with the WMS Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Framework

• Oversee facility management and lease, including office and Block, to ensure appropriate overhead costs and optimal utilization, as well as positive relations with lessor and fellow tenants

Meetings:

Current Timing: 4:00pm on 1st Mondays at Warner Norcross + Judd

Chair: Susan Cloutier Crain

RESOURCES COMMITTEE

Purpose:

Ensure adequate financial resources needed to fulfill organizational mission

Method:

1.) Lead creation of annual budget and monitor compliance; 2;) Maintain oversight of financial reporting and controls; 3.) Lead programs relating to Major Gift/Sponsorship cultivation and solicitation

Type:

A standing committee of the Board

Membership:

Staffed primarily by Board members, the Committee may consist of not less than three nor more than five members and may be augmented by community ex officios providing needed competencies.

Chair:

Treasurer of the Board

Activities & Responsibilities

• Oversee staff development of annual budgets and present final proposed budgets to Boards for adoption

• Review monthly financial reports and monitor performance against budget; provide regular written and/or verbal reports to the Board

• Ensure observance of appropriate financial controls, gift acceptance and acknowledgment, and adherence to GAAP and other appropriate not-for-profit policies and procedures

• Collaborate with staff leadership in planning and implementing annual Major Gift/Sponsorship program and encourage Board-wide participation in annual campaigns to generate increased support

• Formulate investment policies and maintain prudent and effective investment of working capital and endowment funds

Meetings:

Current Timing: 8:00am on 2nd Thursdays at WMS

Chair: Bob Garretson

2025/26 BUDGET SUMMARY

BUSINESS MODEL

Individuals: 27%

Admissions: 24%

Corporate: 10%

Foundations: 6%

Events: 13%

Investments & Fund Distributions: 14%

Other: 6%

Artistic: 45% Administration & Overhead: 14% Marketing: 11% Development: 7% Community: 23%

The best-practice business model recommended by the League of American Orchestras calls for 35% earned revenue, 45% contributed, and 20% investment earnings. The Board has been working to bring the WMS Business Model into closer alignment with this ideal. As you can see from the 2025-2026 Budget pie-chart, 62% of WMS’s $1.77mm revenue goal is to be raised from contributed revenue; 28% from admissions and other earned revenue; and 10% from investment earnings and restricted funds. This is a significant improvement over WMS’s budget model prior to the 2020 Play Your Part Campaign, when investment earnings amounted to less than 3% of budget. Expenses for Tune Up are offset by a $134,363 distribution from reserves restricted for that purpose.

Our fund development goals for 2025-2026 break out into the following:

FUND DEVELOPMENT AT WMS

Our Fund Development Strategy

Even the most sophisticated organizations sometimes lose sight of the fundamental concepts that shape good fundraising. We can all benefit from periodically refreshing our understanding of the field’s best practices, which are grounded in research.

Here are six overarching concepts that we use to shape our fund development strategy:

• Spend more time on seeking individual contributions than sponsorships or grants. Individual donors are more likely to give on an unrestricted, sustained basis.

• Pay the most attention to the people closest to the organization, not those outside. It is more effective to focus on those who already believe in our cause and are already contributing toward it.

• Prioritize retaining-upgrading current donors and re-activating lapsed donors over acquiring new donors. See above.

• Focus attention on donors who have given the most money. Treat every donor with respect and honor—while concentrating our time and resources on those whose giving level sustains and furthers our mission.

• Invest more energy deepening donors’ relationships with our work than asking. Ask only when we know people are ready to say yes. This is why it is called fund development. While small, one-time gifts result from letter appeals and special events, sustained giving comes from our nurturing of advocate/investors.

• Emphasize lower-cost-per-dollar-raised methods over high-cost methods. The highest-cost method of all is the special event, while the lowest-cost is the direct major gift appeal.

Adapted from Boards on Fire! by Susan

Howlett

How you can help:

Every Board member helps to support the fund development program, and this can be done in a variety of ways. We request that all Board members participate in these ways:

• Make a gift that reflects WMS as one of your top giving priorities—whatever that means to you.

• Fill a Gala table, either by sponsoring a table yourself or by inviting friends to join you at your table by purchasing their own tickets.

• Subscribe to the concert season and attend as many concerts as possible while encouraging friends and colleagues to join you

Beyond this, board members support the development effort in these ways:

• Identification: Help the staff to identify donor prospects

• Engagement: Invite a prospect to engage with the organization through attendance or volunteering

• Cultivation: Invite a prospect to meet with you and the CEO for an informational meeting

• Solicitation: Join the CEO or another Board member at a meeting in which a prospect will be invited to consider a gift

• Stewardship: Thank donors for their support

A healthy Fund Development program has many facets, and asking for a gift is only the final step in a process. We spend far more time on engaging, cultivating and thanking than we do on asking. You can support the process in many ways!