For nearly 25 years, the Lee's Summit Symphony has been bringing people together through live music. What began as a community orchestra has grown into one of the city's signature cultural organizations, drawing sold-out audiences, showcasing exceptional musicians and creating opportunities for local students. As the Symphony prepares for another exciting season, Executive Director Karen Schuler, Music Director Kirt Mosier, and longtime Symphony leaders Bob and Candy White share what makes this organization such a treasured part of Lee's Summit.
Q: The Lee's Summit Symphony has become an important part of the community. What makes it so unique and meaningful for audiences and supporters?
Karen Schuler:
There's something special about live music. It's hard to describe in words. You really have to be there, in the room, to hear it and feel it. The music is moving and full of energy, and it's wonderful to see audiences laughing, clapping and even dancing along.
Every concert offers something different. Last season featured classical guitar, extraordinary piano concertos and several new works performed here for the very first time. Our new season begins in October with music you won't find anywhere else, including a collaboration with the Fountain City Brass Band and a holiday concert featuring gospel singer and composer Isaac Cates.
As we approach our 25th anniversary, the Symphony is thriving with 100 musicians, dynamic programming and full houses for every performance. We present four signature concerts each season at the Pavilion at John Knox Village, the largest performance venue in Lee's Summit.
Q: What has kept you passionate about being involved with the Lee's Summit Symphony?
Bob and Candy White:
We've remained passionate because we've had the privilege of watching the Symphony grow while staying true to its mission. From the visionary leadership of founding music director Russ Berlin to the continued artistry of Kirt Mosier, the organization has always focused on creating memorable musical experiences.
We're also fortunate to have dedicated musicians who generously share their talents, along with a Board of Directors and staff who are thoughtful, fiscally responsible and committed to the Symphony's future. Our patrons have supported us every step of the way, and seeing the tremendous growth over the past 23 years has been incredibly rewarding.
Q: What makes the Lee's Summit Symphony accessible and enjoyable for everyone, from lifelong classical music fans to first-time attendees?
Kirt Mosier:
When I plan each season, I choose music that will inspire a wide variety of listeners. We perform movements from great orchestral masterworks alongside music from Hollywood films, works that celebrate diverse cultures, children's favorites and selections from the big band era. There is always something for everyone.
Some people have compared my programming to Arthur Fiedler and the Boston Pops Orchestra because he believed audiences should experience a broad range of music. That approach invites people to discover great orchestral works in a welcoming and entertaining way.
Q: Why is community support and fundraising so important to the Symphony's mission?
Karen Schuler:
The Lee's Summit Symphony is known for its exceptional quality, which is remarkable for a community of our size. Much of that success comes from our close partnership with the Lee's Summit R-7 School District. Many of our musicians are music educators who bring both their teaching experience and their passion for performing to the stage.
We also partner with the district's Digital Music Program under the leadership of Dr. Shawn Harrel. The Symphony provides updated cameras and equipment, while students produce professional-quality audio and video for our concerts. It's hands-on experience that helps prepare them for future careers.
Community support makes all of this possible. Donations help us pay our musicians, commission new works and bring in guest artists. They also allow us to keep ticket prices affordable, including just $5 tickets for children and students through high school, making live orchestral music accessible to more families.
Q: What surprises first-time attendees most when they experience a Lee's Summit Symphony performance?
Bob and Candy White:
People are often amazed by both the level of talent and the creative programming. We remember one patron who admitted he had assumed the concert would be boring and overly formal, even though he'd never attended. Afterward, he couldn't believe how much fun he had.
Our audiences stay engaged throughout the performance, and Kirt Mosier almost always has a surprise waiting somewhere in the program. Many guests leave already planning their next visit. Since concerts frequently sell out, they also discover they've experienced one of the community's most sought-after events.
Q: Looking ahead, what excites you most about the Symphony's future?
Kirt Mosier:
I'm incredibly excited about where we're headed. Every concert sold out this past season, and community support continues to grow. That momentum allows us to dream bigger, introduce new programming and create even more opportunities for people throughout Lee's Summit to experience outstanding live music.
As the Lee's Summit Symphony looks toward its milestone 25th season, the music tells only part of the story. Every performance reflects the people behind it, from the musicians and volunteers to the educators, students, donors and audience members who make it possible. Whether you're a devoted concertgoer or simply curious to experience something new, there's a seat waiting for you. In a community that values connection, creativity and hometown pride, the Lee's Summit Symphony continues to strike all the right notes.