KITCHENER, ONTARIO – September 21, 2023 – Today, the Kitchener-Waterloo Symphony Orchestra Association (KWS) filed for bankruptcy.
“We are absolutely devastated about this outcome,” said Rachel Smith-Spencer, Chair of the Board of Directors. “In the last three days, we have appealed to all of our major stakeholders and have exhausted all available avenues to secure the $2M required immediately to continue operations.”
For those wishing to support musicians and the future of classical music performance in Waterloo Region, two independent fundraisers are available. Musicians of the Symphony have organized a GoFundMe page. This fundraiser has been set up by the musicians, and decisions about the use of those funds will be made by the musicians.
The K-W Symphony Foundation is an independent body responsible for managing the long-term investments that have been donated over many years to support classical music in our area. The Foundation continues to operate, and will be able to support any future initiatives to bring classical music performance to Waterloo Region. Donations to the Foundation can be made through Canada Helps.
All inquiries about the Kitchener-Waterloo Symphony can be directed to Mike Braga at BDO Canada Limited.
The Musicians “Support your KWSymphony Musicians” fundraiser via GoFundMe: https://www.gofundme.com/f/
The K-W Symphony Foundation donations via Canada Helps: https://www.canadahelps.org/
