AMERICAN AIRLINES RENEWS SYMPHONY SPONSORSHIP 

ST. LOUIS, July 30, 2003 -- American Airlines and the Saint Louis Symphony Orchestra are pleased to announce American’s continuing sponsorship of the Orchestra for its 124^th season.  As part of the arrangement, American becomes the official and exclusive airline of the Saint Louis Symphony Orchestra.

            “This partnership reflects our commitment to the cultural institutions of this region,” said Karl McAfee, promotions manager.  “We consider the Symphony to be the crown jewel of St. Louis’ arts organizations, as well as a beacon for the entire region."

            A series of six Friday night concerts beginning October 3 will be known as the American Airlines Series.  The Symphony’s 2003-2004 season begins Friday, September 12. 

            "The Symphony considers its official relationships very carefully,” said Stephen Duncan, director of marketing.  “We are delighted that American has continued to support the Orchestra even during these increasingly challenging financial times.  We hope our partnership continues to grow and that we can help American get the public to travel again.”

            American joins Krispy Kreme, Steinway & Sons, and Thompson Coburn as official or preferred relationships of the Symphony.

The Saint Louis Symphony Orchestra has been a source of pride for the St. Louis region since its founding in 1880.  The Symphony has earned a reputation as a first-tier orchestra through the generations of excellent performances, through its mastery of a wide-ranging repertoire, and a tradition of partnering with leading musical artists from around the world.

            In addition to its regular concert performances at Powell Symphony Hall, the Symphony is an integral part of the St. Louis community with a variety of education and partnership programs.  Through its educational concerts at Powell and in classrooms all over the region through the E. Desmond Lee Fine Arts Education Collaborative, the Symphony encourages thousands of children to learn about classical music.  Free ensemble and individual performances in parks, churches and other venues throughout the area bring classical music to thousands of people of all ages.  In addition, the pioneering IN UNISON® program partners the Symphony with urban African-American churches to further understanding of the connections between gospel, jazz and classical music.

            The Saint Louis Symphony Orchestra receives generous operating support from the Regional Arts Commission and the Missouri Arts Council, a state agency.