The Savannah Philharmonic Orchestra and Chorus, a professional orchestra presenting a full range of concerts from classics to pops each season, just celebrated the end of its successful fifth season in Savannah. According to the Arts and Economic Prosperity Calculator, the Savannah Philharmonic and its audience spent nearly $2 million locally in fiscal year 2014. 

“With many orchestras across the country facing financial challenges, I’m proud that the Savannah Philharmonic has experienced consistent growth over the last five years posting annual surpluses.” said David Pratt executive director. “Savannah can really take pride in its hometown orchestra and chorus.” 

In addition to the Arts and Economic Prosperity Calculator, a project of the nonprofit arts advocacy organization Americans for the Arts, the Savannah Philharmonic released its own financial results. Since 2010, the organization has built a loyal subscription base of more than 400 subscribers from the ground up, doubled earned income and tripled contributed income. 

“At the end of our fifth year, we are reflecting on what we have built from the ground up, and are pleased with what we have achieved,” said Pratt. “This is, by far, the fastest growing cultural organization in Savannah and a boon for the city’s economic development efforts.”

In addition to its cultural and economic development components, the Savannah Philharmonic has a robust community outreach program. The organization is an integral part of the Integrative Medicine Program at The Anderson Cancer Institute at Memorial Hospital in Savannah, providing musicians to play for patients and staff and bringing the joy and healing powers of music to as many members of the community as possible. The orchestra and chorus also has an effective educational program, bringing students to rehearsals and providing master classes to talented young musicians in the area by visiting soloists.