RPO Has Opportunity to Earn $150,000 Incentive

Rochester, N.Y., Feb. 27, 2006 – The Rochester Philharmonic Orchestra announced today that it will receive a one-time gift of $150,000 from an anonymous donor if the organization meets its $2.16 million Annual Campaign fundraising goal by June 30, 2006. The same generous donor who helped encourage the community to support the Orchestra last year has offered this new – and increased – challenge to the RPO. At this time, gifts and pledges to the Annual Campaign total $1.57 million, leaving $590,000 to raise before the RPO will receive this important incentive gift.

Ingrid A. Stanlis, Chairperson of the RPO Board of Directors, said: “We are very grateful that this anonymous donor stepped forward again to offer this exciting year-end incentive. Everyone at the RPO has been working very hard to build on the successes of recent years, including exceeding our total fundraising goal last year with the help of a $100,000 community challenge grant, and it would mean a lot to us to earn this incentive again. Approximately 1,800 individuals and businesses that contributed last year have yet to do so, and their renewed support could significantly close that $590,000 gap. Those who have not contributed to the RPO in the past can also help us by making a gift or pledge today; every dollar contributed to the Annual Campaign brings us closer to achieving our goal. By helping ensure the vibrant future of the RPO, the community can continue to enjoy our outstanding artistic quality, world-class education and outreach programs, and creative opportunities for engagement with the orchestra.”

“Right now,” said Richard Nowlin, President & CEO, “the average donation to the Annual Campaign is higher than it was last year. We’re hoping the community will not only sustain that level of commitment, but increase it to help us reach our goal and earn this gift. It is especially important to note that corporate giving has increased 23% over this time last year – in this time of economic challenge, more companies are contributing to the overall quality of life in Rochester and to the future of the RPO.”

Donations to the RPO’s Annual Campaign may be made online at www.rpo.org, by calling (585) 454-7311 x247 or x252, or by mailing a gift or pledge to RPO Annual Campaign, 108 East Avenue, Rochester, NY 14604. Every donation counts toward reaching the $2.16 million goal, and helps earn the $150,000 incentive.