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Elizabeth Richebourg Rea has made one of the largest single gifts in the history of the Annapolis Symphony Orchestra to honor her father, Philip Richebourg, who passed away in April at the age of 91. The gift will underwrite the Annapolis Symphony Orchestra's 50th Anniversary Season in memory of Mr. Richebourg, the organization’s first Board president.
Mr. Richebourg became involved with the ASO in 1967 when he co-founded the Annapolis Symphony Orchestra Association. As Board president for the next seven years his leadership and business acumen helped the ASO grow and build a solid foundation. When music director Kenneth Page died suddenly at the age of 39, it was Philip Richebourg who had the idea to ing the legendary Leon Fleisher on board as music director.
In addition to underwriting the 50th Anniversary Season, Ms. Rea has also endowed the Principal Trumpet Chair in her father's name, a gift that will provide for the future of the ASO. Mr. Richebourg began playing trumpet in his high school orchestra and continued to play through his years in college and the U.S. Navy.
Says Ms. Rea, “The Annapolis Symphony Orchestra was near and dear to my father's heart. Going to the concerts provided him with such joy and pride. I feel privileged to be able to honor his passion and such a talented orchestra at the same time.”
Says Board of Trustees Chair, John Goldthwait, “We are proud to dedicate the entire 50th Anniversary Season to Mr. Richebourg. I cannot imagine a more fitting or meaningful way to honor his years of service and leadership. We have also created a new giving level, The Philip Richebourg Encore Circle, to recognize leadership gifts to the ASO of $50,000 or more. We are delighted to have Ms. Rea as a founding member.”
A World War II flight instructor, Richebourg piloted his four-seater single prop plane until his mid 70s. He was the longest serving member of the Annapolis Rotary, serving for more than six decades. Named The Capital's Person of the Year in 1990, Mr. Richebourg was typically modest of his achievements. “Busy people get things done. You just have to make time to do things.”
He was owner of The Philip Richebourg Company, an Annapolis Real Estate and Insurance firm, from 1945 to 1990. His wife of 41 years, Bernice Montgomery Richebourg died just twelve days after Mr. Richebourg, she shared his love of music and served on the Friends of the Annapolis Symphony Orchestra. They never missed an ASO performance.
For more information, please contact Katharene Snavely, ASO Executive Director, at 410-269-1132 or email to ksnavely@annapolissymphony.org.
Contact: Katharene Snavely
Phone: 410-269-1132
ksnavely@annapolissymphony.org
