Nonprofit Week 2025: Symphony of the Hills

Artistic Director Gene Dowdy and board member Rebecca Williamson shared how the Symphony of the Hills connects with the community through classical music performances while adapting their 25th anniversary season to address flood recovery.

In response to the July 4 flood, the symphony’s artistic team and board made a significant pivot to incorporate a theme of remembrance and resilience. They will play their first concert Oct. 9 in Kerrville, followed by a free tribute concert in San Antonio on Oct. 16 at Trinity University auditorium.

The San Antonio concert, co-sponsored by Trinity, will include Trinity’s choir singing a piece, with donations accepted for the Hill Country Strong community. The opening of their Kerrville concert will feature the “Adagietto” from Gustav Mahler’s Symphony No. 5, a soulful piece chosen to reflect community feelings.

The symphony emphasizes their Children’s Adventures in Music program, which brings musicians into schools and educates over 1,600 children annually, fostering appreciation for orchestral music.

The organization is experiencing strong financial health and momentum, with growing season ticket sales as they adapt their mission to serve community healing.

For more information, visit symphonyofthehills.org.