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Riverside Symphony $15,000
New York, New York
Anthony Korf Artistic Director
The Riverside Symphony was founded in 1980 in response to the growing tendency of the major
orchestras to perform only the so-called "war horses" or familiar standards. In the past, one of the
most important roles a conductor played was that of an expert who sought out and brought new music
to the attention of the music-loving public. Today, this responsibility has been largely abandoned by
the leaders of large symphonies, who must be more concerned with attracting financially secure (and
often musically conservative) subscribers. In contrast, the Riverside Symphony offers programs that
combine new compositions with rarely heard pieces by past masters as well as works from the standard
repertory. It also focuses on reaching the audiences of tomorrow by previewing its Tully Hall
concerts for school children. Over the years, the orchestra has developed a loyal following, and many
audience members have expressed a desire to become more involved with its activities. Our grant will
support a plan designed to identify and mobilize a volunteer group comprised of these individuals. The
corps of properly trained, well-organized volunteers that is expected to result will be a great asset, significantly
increasing earned and contributed income for the Riverside Symphony.
Second Stage
New York, New York
Carole Rothman, Artistic Director
$30,000
Founded in 1979, the Second Stage Theatre is dedicated to giving new life to contemporary American
works that fared poorly in their first productions and to developing and producing new American
plays. The company also focuses on giving emerging authors their Off Broadway debuts. Over the
years, Second Stage has developed into a major theatrical force, producing many award winning hits
that have gone on to successful commercial runs both on and off Broadway. Since the company's
administrative operations were computerized in 1985, faster, more efficient programs and products,
many designed specifically for use by arts organizations, have been developed. Yet Second Stage has
been unable to take advantage of them on its outmoded system. This year, in a move to greatly streamline
its administrative operations, the company has planned a comprehensive computer upgrade
project to be implemented in three stages. Our grant will be used to purchase new software and to
pay for consulting time, data transfer, and staff training expenses associated with the project.