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For Immediate Release
Contact: Jeff Trammel (314) 286-4136

SAINT LOUIS SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA AWARDED
$150,000 GRANT FROM METLIFE FOUNDATION

ST. LOUIS, December 12, 2005 – The Saint Louis Symphony Orchestra has been awarded a $150,000 grant from the Metlife Foundation through its Music for Life initiative. The grant will supply $50,000 per year for the next three years towards the Symphony’s Adopt-A-School Program and Music Without Boundaries, an initiative to expand the Symphony’s engagement in St. Louis’ growing international population.

In addition to supporting free musician visits to churches and social service agencies serving the international community and select urban elementary schools, the grant will support professional development opportunities for Symphony musicians and staff to aid them in designing and presenting appropriate and effective programs.

The Saint Louis Symphony Orchestra is a national leader in community engagement with more than 250 community appearances each year. In 2002 the American Symphony Orchestra League and MetLife Foundation awarded the Symphony a national award for its work in the community.