Volunteer Opportunities and Appreciation
The Cleveland Orchestra has been supported by large numbers of dedicated volunteers since its founding in 1918. Opportunities for volunteering include membership in a variety of organizations and performing groups, and involvement with education, fundraising, and other projects.
The Orchestra’s Volunteer Council was established in 1998 to reinforce the impact that volunteers have on the mission of the Orchestra. The Cleveland Orchestra salutes all the hard-working and dedicated volunteers who provide extraordinary service and support.
The Cleveland Orchestra is a member of the Association of Major Symphony Orchestra Volunteers (AMSOV).
Volunteer Committees
Two standing volunteer committees provide important support each year.
The Women’s Committee of The Cleveland Orchestra was founded in 1921 to support the Orchestra’s educational activities. Now open to men as well as women, the Women’s Committee continues its support of the Orchestra through music education, service, and fundraising.
The Blossom Women’s Committee, established in 1968, is a state-wide organization that assists in promoting and sustaining each summer’s Blossom Festival.
For additional information about joining these committees, please call the Volunteers Office at 216-231-7557 or click on the links above.
Volunteer Ushers
Over 400 volunteers provide service-related support each season.
Volunteer Ushers participate in “front of house” duties at Severance Hall for Orchestra concerts and many other activities. Tour Guides lead tours of Severance Hall, and Store Volunteers help staff the Orchestra Store at Severance and the Blossom Bandwagon Gift Shop. Docents are trained each year to help prepare elementary school students for Education Concerts.
For more information about these volunteer opportunities, please call 216-231-7425
Volunteer Performers
Nearly 300 vocalists volunteer their time and talents in the performing groups that support the Orchestra each year. Membership is by audition.
The Cleveland Orchestra Chorus was formed by George Szell in 1952. Rehearsing weekly throughout the winter season, the Chorus performs choral works with the Orchestra and participates in the Orchestra’s annual Christmas concerts.
The Blossom Festival Chorus is comprised of singers from through-out northeastern Ohio, including members of the Cleveland Orchestra Chorus. The Chorus performs with the Orchestra at Blossom Festival concerts. Most summer weeks include two chorus rehearsals.
For further information about singing with these ensembles, please call the Chorus Office at 216-231-7372.
In addition to the groups above, trustees and other community members support the Orchestra as Fundraising Volunteers for annual operating and endowment gifts from individuals, foundations, and corporations.
