One of the best experiences I had during our months of social isolation was enjoying the music of our Kansas City Symphony, which we have a close connection to here at Kol Ami. Alex Shapiro, the symphony’s vice president of development, with his husband, Ray Berger (Kol Ami board vice president), are members of our kehilah.
Can you describe your position with the symphony?
As the vice president of development, I’m responsible for overseeing all activities related to donated revenue, including gifts from individuals, foundation and government grants, corporate support, planned gifts, and special events.
How did the KC Symphony come to the concept of the Mobile Music Box?
Shortly after the COVID-19 pandemic took root, the symphony had to cancel all its performances. However, we felt it was essential to find some way to connect with the community. At the same time, over the summer, many of the musicians began doing pop-up performances on front porches and in parks. We were inspired by these small-ensemble groups to create a traveling venue that could serve as a movable stage for free symphony-branded concerts.
Could you highlight some of its special features?
One of the trailer’s side panels swings down to become a performance platform, which can accommodate up to seven musicians. There’s a generator that supplies electricity for lighting. I believe there’s even heating and air conditioning.
How did it benefit the community during the pandemic?
Since last September, when we debuted the Mobile Music Box, we’ve presented more than 150 free concerts to 25,000 people in 65 different zip codes. The anecdotal feedback has been tremendous, and we’re so grateful to continue fulfilling our mission to share great music with this amazing community by using all means at our disposal.
This interview first appeared in the Kol Ami newsletter
