“You’re struggling, aren’t you?” the caller asks.
The words are not music to Ruth Stevens’ ears.
“Financially, but not musically,” she retorts.
Stevens is one of the co-founders and principal violist of the Lyric Chamber Orchestra. The Boynton Beach woman does her darnedest to get the word out about the orchestra, which has concerts in the parish hall at St. Lucy’s Catholic Church and is gearing up for its April 1 season finale. (See Steve Plunkett’s story on Page 1).
Musicians such as Stevens remain upbeat about performances, but when it comes to financing, it’s hard to put on a happy face. Highland Beach gave the Lyric $5,000 in its debut year and again in 2005. Since then, nada.
Were it not for charitable contributions from Stevens and Vera Rosen, the Lyric’s principal violinist, this season wouldn’t have been possible.
Besides that, some of the musicians spend as much as $150 a year of their own money, paying for gasoline to get to the rehearsals.
It would be a shame if the orchestra had to leave Highland Beach. If you haven’t ordered tickets yet for the April 1 performance at St. Lucy’s, now’s the time to plunk down $15-$20 for a ticket. Better yet, call Stevens (733-3245) about other opportunities to keep the Lyric playing beautiful music in Highland Beach.
— Mary Thurwachter, managing editor
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