Events of the Houston Symphony League

The Houston Symphony League hosts various events throughout the year. Below are descriptions of our main events.

Educational Opportunities

Book Club

This is a book discussion group that meets in a member’s home, typically twice a year. It is designed to be a social and educational experience and to encourage a deeper understanding of the Symphony’s upcoming repertoire.

B# Series

This popular program involves three luncheons with informative and entertaining speakers and presentations from musicians, guest artists, composers, Symphony staff, experts in medical and music research and other community arts organizations in a luncheon and lecture setting.

Fundraising for the Symphony

Conversation with an Icon

This is a wonderful luncheon with prominent Houston accomplished and intriguing celebrities as speakers. The event is usually held at beautiful and exciting venues.

Musician Sponsorship

The League is conducting a special fundraiser through member donations to sponsor a musician for the following year.

Neiman Marcus Style Show

This style show and luncheon is an annual partnership with the legendary Neiman Marcus. Neiman’s graciously hosts the luncheon and style show to raise funds for the Symphony.

Pop-up Fundraisers

The League earns a percentage of the sales during a pop-up event that the League organizes at various stores around the Greater Houston area.

Social Opportunities

Fall Membership Luncheon and Volunteer Fair

The luncheon kicks off the Houston Symphony League’s season and provides an opportunity for members to sign up to donate their time and talents to the year’s lineup of volunteer activities and fundraisers.

Orchestrated Luncheons

A purely social event for our members to Dutch treat themselves to a fun get-together at one of Houston’s lovely restaurants. The League typically has one in the fall and one in the spring.

Holiday Party

This annual event is held in December typically in a home setting for members to celebrate the festive holiday season. This is a no-charge membership meeting and thank you party for our members.

Spring Membership Event

The event is an elegant affair at which the general membership votes on the new officers who were previously selected by the Nominating Committee. Our esteemed Ardyce Tostengard Crystal Cello Award is presented to the outstanding education volunteer for serving, inspiring, and bringing the joy of music to children and families. This is a no-charge membership meeting and thank you party for our members.

President’s Luncheon

This luncheon is a celebration for our outgoing president and their accomplishments and a welcome for our incoming president as the gavel is passed. The League also presents the esteemed Ellen Kelley Volunteer of the Year Award.

Symphonic Social Connections

Members only social groups that meet to build camaraderie. It is a requirement to volunteer at the Student Concerts if a member joins one of the groups.

  • League Night Out – meets for Symphony performances, dinner, cocktails, light bites
  • Wine Society – meets at Brenner’s Blue Bar to socialize and enjoy wine and appetizers
  • Gourmet Group – provides cooking demonstrations
  • Exploring Houston’s Arts and Culture – provides tours of Houston art and cultural experiences
  • Exploring Houston – provides tours of well-known sites and businesses of interest in Houston
  • Games Day – meets to play Mah Jong and more
  • Golf – meets to play golf
  • Destination Trip – travels on a group trip to somewhere fun and interesting