History

WAMSO–A History of Success!

In 1949, Rosalynd Pflaum and a group of women organized the Women's Association of the Minneapolis Symphony Orchestra (WAMSO). Pflaum, who served as president for the first
five years, and other founding members focused on the purpose "to stimulate interest in and
to encourage statewide support of the Minneapolis Symphony Orchestra."

In 1968 when the Orchestra changed its name, WAMSO reflected this change and became
the Women's Association of the Minnesota Orchestra (WAMSO). In 1994, the name again changed to WAMSO–Minnesota Orchestra Volunteer Association to emphasize its
broad-based constituency.

Over the years, WAMSO has donated over ten million dollars to the Minnesota Orchestral Association through the Symphony Ball and other fundraising endeavors. WAMSO's support
for the Orchestra has included the endowment of the Principal Percussion Chair and the commissioning of several orchestral pieces. WAMSO continues to serve as a national leader
in fundraising and music education.

While supporting the Twin Cities' most prestigious music organization, WAMSO has also created and nurtured education programs–particularly efforts to bring classical music to children. Projects like Kinder Konzerts have received national awards from the America Symphony Orchestra League and reach thousands of students each year.

WAMSO's board of directors, program leaders, and over 500 active volunteers donate approximately 10,000 volunteer hours valued at over $175,000 each year in the management
of current projects and the planning of future events.