Planned Giving Societies

Planned gifts safeguard the future of the arts, and they create opportunities for connection among dedicated patrons who share a commitment to sustaining this work. 

We are honored to recognize our legacy donors as members of our distinguished societies: The Frances Anne Wister Society (The Philadelphia Orchestra) and The Honickman Family Society (Ensemble Arts). Legacy donors are recognized on a special page in the Playbill and are invited to an annual celebration event honoring their generosity. 

The Honickman Family Society is named in honor of Harold and Lynne Honickman and their family, and members ensure that Ensemble Arts experiences will continue to educate, inspire, and delight audiences for generations to come. 

Frances Anne Wister was a volunteer with The Philadelphia Orchestra in its critical early decades, and thoughtfully designated a major portion of her estate in support of the Orchestra’s continued excellence. Her gift, like yours, is helping us safeguard the future of classical music and the performing arts in Philadelphia. 

 

Donor Stories

JaneAt the heart of it, I believe the arts belong to everyone. Yet, government funding for the arts waxes and wanes. The arts deserve a solid foundation upon which to grow, expand and thrive. 

The case for supporting the arts is clear. Studies conducted across many decades have consistently found that music engagement bolsters math scores and school attendance in young people, and it helps to combat mood disorders in adults. 

It’s my honor to support the incredible legacy of our storied Philadelphia Orchestra. I would encourage everyone and anyone who has been touched by their artistry to consider doing the same. It’s a gift that will resonate across generations. How great is that?

Jane Berryman 

I want to help the arts continue into the future, and provide others the immense cultural and personal benefits the arts have provided me. 

Sherman Leis  

Music touches people’s lives in so many ways at all ages. I have been coming to The Philadelphia Orchestra since 1975 and that’s my longest commitment, besides my alma mater, to any organization. I have included the Orchestra in my estate plans because I believe in your mission—to education, diversity, excellence—and I simply love every experience I have ever had here!

Ardith Talbott