August 1, 2025
Dear WSL Members,
Welcome to the Women’s Symphony League of Austin’s 72nd year! What a milestone moment for our organization. Since our founding, the Women’s Symphony League has grown into a dynamic nonprofit of nearly 600 dedicated women who share a common purpose: to support the Austin Symphony Orchestra (ASO) through service and financial contributions, and to inspire the next generation by creating educational opportunities that deepen children’s love and appreciation for music.
The strength of the WSL comes from our members and your commitment. Together, we are not only preserving a proud tradition but also ensuring that the music continues to resonate throughout Austin and Central Texas.
The WSL is honored to remain the largest annual contributor to the ASO, Austin’s oldest performing arts organization, now celebrating its 113th season. To mark this extraordinary year, we are thrilled to present the 70th Anniversary Jewel Ball, a signature event and one of Austin’s longest-running traditions. This year’s theme, The Platinum Jubilee, will come to life through its signature celebrations:
- Soirée PLANTINE: “The Purple Reign,” Austin’s foremost teen fundraiser honoring the Belles and Beaux of the Junior Royalty Court.
- The Fashion Luncheon, featuring Lady Henrietta Spencer-Churchill, alongside a runway showcase of fall styles and the “Royal Exchange” Vendor Marketplace, an exclusive collection of hand-selected local merchants.
- The culminating Jewel Ball, where our community of arts patrons, members, and supporters come together to celebrate the 70th anniversary of this time-honored event, along with our love of music and to raise vital funds for the ASO.
Beyond Jewel Ball, the WSL calendar is filled with beloved traditions. We look forward to the Red Haute Children’s Fashion Show, “Love in Bloom” in February, a heartwarming event where Austin’s youngest style stars light up the runway in fashions from local boutiques. With its pop-up shopping and spirited atmosphere, Red Haute is always a highlight for members, families, and the broader community.
Our mission extends far beyond fundraising—we are proud to serve the ASO in countless hands-on ways. Each year, our volunteers support programming by:
- Greeting families and passing out programs at the Hartman Foundation Concerts in the Park.
- Lending support at the ASO Halloween Children’s Concert.
- Escorting students into the Long Center for Young People’s Concerts.
- Hosting Tuneful Tales at central area libraries, where children and adults discover the joy of live ensembles.
- Providing meals and treats for ASO musicians during Masterworks rehearsals.
- Offering “Done-in-a-Day” service for key events such as the July 4th Concert & Fireworks and special ASO celebrations.
It is my profound honor to serve as President of the Women’s Symphony League of Austin during this 72nd year. I am inspired daily by the extraordinary women who make up this organization and grateful for the decades of dedication that have built the foundation we stand on today. Together, we will continue to uplift the ASO, nurture a love of music in children, and enrich the cultural fabric of Austin.
Here’s to a memorable and music-filled year!
With gratitude,
Melanie Mahaffey
2025-2026 President
