The Chicago Symphony Orchestra League’s Corporate Night is the toast of the symphony’s fundraising season. This event gives the organization an opportunity to recognize and thank its corporate sponsors for their unwavering support throughout the year. Elizabeth Stein is the president of the CSO and is also president of Dixon Stein Fine Violins, highly respected for their rare and modern stringed instruments, repairs and restoration. She works closely with musicians, collectors and business institutions with a focus on sales, public relations, business organizations and event planning. –tony binns
Tell us about the Chicago Symphony Orchestra’s Corporate Night?
We’ve been doing Corporate Night annually since 1989. It is the largest fundraiser of the year. It is also handled by the staff, but we owe it to our sponsor patrons for our success. The Corporations give the CSO tens of thousands of dollars to support the Symphony and this is our way to “thank” them with a dinner and a performance by an up-and-coming artist or legendary pop artist, with a post-party following. This year’s Corporate Night of course, featured members of the Chicago Symphony Orchestra and guest artist Janelle Monáe.
You are a musician and you also have a violin company?
Yes, I am a violinist and I have been in the violin business for almost 25 years.
How long have you been playing the violin?
I started when I was 8 years old. Received my bachelor’s in violin performance, a master’s and have been playing professionally since 1985.
What are some of your other activities outside of your work with the symphony and your violin company?
I spend my time attending concerts, listening to jazz and the Symphony. I am also very active as a musician contractor, booking all styles of music for events, weddings, conventions, throughout Chicago, and nationwide.
What are some of the other events you participate in with the Symphony throughout the year?
We have four fundraising events, one of which is Corporate Night. We have an education program with five events, including Adventures in Music for the underprivileged children bringing them to the Chicago Symphony Orchestra. We also enjoy organizing special “friend” events.
