Individual Giving
Your gift to the Charlotte Symphony makes everything possible — the performances, the education programs, and the community work that brings live music to people across Charlotte.
Last season, your support made this happen:
- 184 performances across 44 venues
- 165,000+ people experienced live music with the CSO
- 24,792 students experiences
- 5,000+ people reached in hospitals, rehabilitation centers, and shelters
The Charlotte Symphony is an essential part of the region’s cultural life, using the power of music, using the power of music in its many forms to not only entertain, but also educate, unite, and inspire. As a donor, you also enjoy exclusive benefits and behind-the-scenes access to the Symphony throughout the year.
Patron Circle
Enjoy insider access to your Charlotte Symphony with exclusive Patron Circle benefits designed to enhance your symphony experience.
$100-499
All benefits listed above, plus:
- Donor Rehearsals: Enjoy donors-only access to one orchestra rehearsal.
- CSO Lapel Pin: Commemorate the 2025-26 season with an exclusive lapel pin.
$500-999
All benefits listed above, plus:
- Program Listing: Your name will be listed in the CSO digital concert program throughout the season.
- CSO Static Cling Decal: Show your pride for the CSO by placing your branded decal in your car or any window.
$1,000-2,499
All benefits listed above, plus:
- Lunch with the Musicians: Enjoy an intimate gathering with fellow supporters and your CSO musicians.
- Pops Club: Donor Lounge access pre-concert and during intermission at Pops concerts.
- VIP Concierge: Enjoy hassle-free, donors-only access to a dedicated VIP hotline where a member of our staff will personally handle your ticket exchanges, purchases, and concert-related questions.
Virtuoso Circle
Virtuoso Circle members enjoy all Patron Circle benefits, plus exclusive behind-the-scenes access to the Charlotte Symphony through intimate opportunities for our most passionate donors.
$2,500-$3,499
All benefits listed above, plus:
- Donor Lounge: Join fellow CSO donors in the Donor Lounge during intermission at Classical concerts on Friday and Saturday evenings.
- Priority Seating: Considerations will be taken at the conclusion of the season when seating requests are made.
$3,500-$4,999
All benefits listed above, plus:
- Valet Parking: Enjoy complimentary valet parking at classical season concerts on Friday and Saturday evenings.
$5,000-$9,999
All benefits listed above, plus:
- Evening with the Orchestra: You see them onstage at every concert; now, get to know your CSO musicians one-on-one over wine & hors d'oeuvres.
Benefactor Circle
Our most generous patrons receive all the benefits available at the Virtuoso Circle and Patron Circle levels, plus these exclusive and customizable benefits.
$10,000-19,999
All benefits listed above, plus:
- Benefactors Night Backstage: Join us for a private reception and orchestra rehearsal to get a new perspective on the making of a concert.
$20,000-24,999
All benefits listed above, plus:
- Guest Artist Sponsorship: Enjoy the exclusive opportunity to name a Charlotte Symphony guest artist appearance.
$25,000-49,999
All benefits listed above, plus:
- Concert Sponsorship: Enjoy the exclusive opportunity to name a CSO concert.
- Music with a View: Enjoy dinner and a private concert atop a beautiful uptown venue.
Matching Gifts
Are you one of the millions of people working for a company that offers matching gifts? Doubling your donation through an Employer Matching Gift program is an easy way to increase your impact.
Use the search tool below to see if your employer will match your gift!
Ways to Give:
Gifts by Check
You may make a gift by sending a check made payable to the Charlotte Symphony Orchestra and mail to:
Charlotte Symphony Orchestra
Attn: Development Office
129 W. Trade Street, Suite 600
Charlotte, NC 28202
Gifts of Securities or Mutual Funds
Please be prepared to provide the following information:
- Full name of the Donor(s)
- Name of the stock to be gifted
- Number of shares
- Designation of gift
- Broker's name, company, and contact number
Cash & Wire Transfer
We accept gifts via ACH or Wire Transfer. Extra info goes here.
IRA Rollover
Are you looking for a tax-effective way to make a gift to the CSO? A charitable gift rollover from your Individual Retirement Account (IRA) may be your best option. Consult your Financial Advisor about the best way for you to proceed.
If you are interested in making a gift to the Charlotte Symphony Orchestra from your IRA, please contact Mary Nell Johnson, Senior Director of Individual Giving, at 704.714.5137.
Have any questions?
For questions about making a contribution to the CSO Annual Fund, please contact Mary Nell Johnson, Senior Director of Individual Giving, at mnjohnson@charlottesymphony.org or 704.714.5137.