The Dallas Symphony Orchestra League (DSOL) celebrated music and fashion at the 7th annual Fashion Notes Designer Award Luncheon and Style Show presented by Veritex Community Bank on Wednesday, November 4, at the Fairmont Dallas.
Mother-daughter duo, Cile McCormick and Claire Catrino served as Honorary Chairs. Cile is a devoted supporter of the symphony and a longtime member of DSOL. Her daughter Claire was a debutante, Assembly officer, and now serves on the DSOL Board.
Karen Cox chaired the event and Anne Ligon is the DSOL President.
This year the DSOL celebrates its 75th anniversary. Throughout the last 75 years, the League has donated over 20 million dollars to the Dallas Symphony. This would not have been possible without all the amazing women who have served as Presidents of the League. The Past Presidents of the DSOL were collectively the recipients of the Fashion Notes Designer Award for their work in designing and guiding the league for 75 years.
As one of the few live events held this season, the morning began with a carefully orchestrated agenda respecting social distancing and CDC protocols. The DSOL acknowledged the safety and comfort with temperature taken upon arrival, only six guests per table, tables spaced more than six feet apart, and strict CDC protocol followed by hotel staff. Tickets were limited in order to adhere to CDC guidelines.
A reception and Mystery Notes gift pull was followed by the luncheon and style show, Fashion Notes Designer Award presentation, a live auction, and a performance by DSO Young Strings cellist Rahel Lulseged. The latest fashions from TOOTSIES were featured, with Nerissa von Helpenstill and Dustin Holcomb of TOOTSIES serving as emcees.
Proceeds benefit the Dallas Symphony Association and its education and community outreach programs. Some of the quality outreach programs the League supports are: DSO on the Go, Community Concerts and Performances, Cecil and Ida Green Youth Concerts, Symphony Yes!, DSO Kids, Young Strings and Young Musicians.
“The idea of putting a violin or flute in the hands of a child who might not otherwise have the opportunity to learn to play a musical instrument is heartwarming,” said event chair Karen Cox. “I am humbled to be part of this fun Fashion Notes Luncheon and support the important community outreach programs of the DSO.”
The Luncheon was sponsored by Veritex Community Bank/Darlene Ellison, TOOTSIES, and Fairmont Dallas.
Mission Statement: The Dallas Symphony Orchestra League is an organization of volunteers who support the Dallas Symphony Association through service, education and fundraising activities.
History: Since 1946, the DSO League has worked to support the Dallas Symphony Orchestra through service, education and fundraising efforts. Since 1998, the League has contributed more than $19 million in support of the Dallas Symphony Association’s Community Outreach and Education programs, which help bring the wonder of music to thousands in the Dallas Metroplex.
Photos by Jeff Smith