The Tallahassee Symphony Orchestra will not bleed red ink during its upcoming season of live performances, despite a year of virtual concerts because of the pandemic. A big federal grant has erased the expected deficit.
Tallahassee Symphony Manager Mandy Stringer said the orchestra was watching various federal stimulus plans during the pandemic.
"The SBA had been on our radar for quite some time."
In particular, the Small Business Administration's Shuttered Venue Operator's Grant. Although it was uncertain the TSO qualified.
"So many different kinds of entities like movie theatres and night clubs. So we didn't even know if symphony orchestras were going to become eligible. But when we became eligible, of course we applied."
That application has now resulted in a significant grant.
"It's over $160,000 and will really help carry us through this season as we get back on our feet post-pandemic."
The Tallahassee Symphony Orchestra's new season kicks off on October 16th, live and in person in Ruby Diamond Concert Hall.