When Dr. John Cuellar attended the Asheville Symphony’s performance of Carmina Burana several years ago, little did he know that it would lead to an on-going, years-long commitment to the symphony. Awe-struck by the performance, he called the Symphony office the next morning and purchased season tickets. He has subscribed ever since.
John’s love for classical music was instilled in him as a child, attending concerts with his mother in Texas. “We weren’t wealthy, and music lessons were beyond our budget, but my mother loved classical music,” he recalls. “Hearing amazing musicians as I grew up made a lasting impression on me. I’ve had the good fortune to see and hear wonderful symphonies and performances across the country since.” John’s passion continued with the Asheville Symphony after his move here.
At one particular Asheville Symphony Annual Meeting, John stood up and spoke, sharing his admiration for the organization’s exceptional music and leadership, “The quality and musicianship in a city of this size was striking.” Shortly after, board member Jack Anderson invited him to lunch along with Steve Hageman, then executive director, and John was asked to join the Asheville Symphony’s board.
“Since then, I’ve seen the Symphony thrive under incredible leadership,” he says. “It’s a real pleasure to be part of something so inspiring and impactful.”
For John and his wife Wendy, that outreach is personal. Their daughter found her own connection to music at Asheville High School, and then on to the Asheville Symphony Youth Orchestra, playing bassoon. “Music became her community,” John explains. She went on to study Music Therapy at Appalachian State University and now works as a music therapist at a children’s hospital. Seeing firsthand how music shaped their daughter’s life led John and Wendy to think about the future.
“The developmental data on children who play music is impressive, and we’ve seen firsthand what music can do for kids,” he shares. “It motivates them, teaches them skills they can carry throughout their lives, and creates opportunities they might not otherwise have.”
As members of the Asheville Symphony Legacy Society, John and Wendy know their gift will help sustain the Symphony for years to come. These contributions often support the Symphony’s endowment, providing vital resources and ensuring the Symphony’s excellence endures. “This is one of the best ways to invest in the future of kids in Asheville and what music can do for them,” John says. “It’s a legacy that will have benefits far beyond our lifetimes.”
The Asheville Symphony Legacy Society recognizes individuals who make planned gifts to the Symphony.
Members enjoy unique benefits, including special events and educational opportunities, as well as acknowledgment in the season program.
For John, the decision to give was simple. “Live music played by a full orchestra is such a rare and special experience. To sit in a concert hall and hear music that has been cherished for centuries is both invigorating and profoundly moving,” he reflects.
“Ensuring that experience continues for others is something I’m proud to be part of.”
