The Williamsburg Symphony Orchestra League spring fundraising dinner concert‘A Broadway Bash’, with Tiffany Haas of Wicked fame had a very successful evening at the Two Rivers Country Club on April 1, 2017. A grand total of$35,000 was raised to benefit the Williamsburg Symphony Orchestra (WSO) in the coming year.

Tiffany gave a terrific performance which included a broad range of songs highlighted with narrative about her career. The WSO League Fundraising Committee was headed by Doug Wood with Cecie Adolphi, Marie Knuettel, Margene Hartsough, Marie Mamikonian, and Paul Try, League President, playing key roles in planning the event.

Rick Overy of Compass WealthStrategies, the auctioneer for the live auction and paddle raise, encouraged a generous response from the attendees which will benefit the WSO concerts and educational outreach programs, many of which reach over 7,000 children each year. Nearly 170 attendees were treated to a beautiful sunset on the James as they dined on a spectacular dinner prepared by Chef Rizzo. Tiffany was treated to a standing ovation at the conclusion of her concert as an appreciation other great talent and outstanding performance!

Yet another exclusive event supporting the Williamsburg Symphony Orchestra League, this time hosted by John and Ann Milliman at their lovely residence inKing’s Point, occurred early evening of May 17. Almost 30 attendees enjoyed a glass of bubbly, nibbled on scrumptious tea sandwiches and delicate deserts and, of course, sipped tea – all while enjoying the expansive and beautiful views of College Creek. In the tea party tradition, guests donned their finest attire -- some even showing off their beautiful fascinators! This event was truly an evening to remember with the sun setting over the water, birds circling and great conversation.

A Private Performance was the League’s final Encore Affairs event of the season and was stellar. The warm and welcoming home of Jon and Jan Krapfl provided the perfect setting for fine food, good company and delightful entertainment.

Guests greeted old and new friends while enjoying savory hors d’oevres during the opening reception.

Entertainment was provided by violinist Tessa Lark, with her friend, Michael Thurber on bass. Tessa is the guest artist for the Williamsburg Symphony’s last masterworks concert of the season. Both performers proved why they are so widely regarded in the musical world. The intimate setting provided for a very personal performance and featured selections written for Tessa by Michael which showcased this Kentucky girl’s musical roots in bluegrass music. Seventeenth century violin meets Kentucky bluegrass fiddling! Tessa’s performance was sponsored by Paul Try.

The chef’s culinary skills for this fully catered sit-down dinner were fully appreciated by every palate. Dinner was enhanced by elegant table settings and beautiful floral arrangements. Our hosts attention to detail made for a most enjoyable experience. A fine wine selection for the reception and dinner was sponsored by Joe and Cindy Southworth.

Truly an evening to remember, this latest example of the Encore Affairs Committee’s work is a precursor of even more excitement next year.