Symphony Orchestra Vienna Residency Endowment

$142,656 committed (as of 04/30/2021)

Vienna, Austria, is a key city of exquisite architecture, major art museums, storied coffee houses, and, of course, world-class orchestras. Known as “The City of Music,” it’s where Beethoven, Mozart, Haydn, Strauss, and Schubert lived, and where 10,000 people continue to take in live classical music each night. And it is where, every four years since 1977, over 80 Luther student musicians live, practice, and perform for three weeks during the month of January.

The Vienna residency includes daily rehearsals and coursework, often on current and historical aspects of Vienna, led by Luther professors. On free evenings, many students queue up to get reduced-price tickets to top-tier concerts.

While music is the heart and soul of the residency, Luther students also experience some distinctive Viennese traditions during the month–from relaxing at Europe’s biggest and most modern thermal spa, located south of Vienna, to attending a formal Officers’ Ball at the Hofburg Imperial Palace. Many students also do side trips to Prague, Budapest, and Salzburg.

After a cross-continental journey, dozens of cultural excursions, thrilling weekend side trips, nearly three weeks of rigorous practice, and a triumphant performance, Luther students leave Vienna with new friends, new memories, and a deeper appreciation for the transformative power of the highest and best kind of musical expression.

The Luther College Vienna Residency Endowment will ensure this unique experience is available to all talented, committed student musicians, regardless of financial circumstances. As we celebrate the 50th anniversary, join us in supporting the residency program. Your generous gift will help continue the highest quality educational and cultural experience for our student musicians.

Recognition Levels

Commitments may be made over a one- to five-year period.

Luther College invites all alumni and friends to support this important program. Gifts and pledges of all sizes are appreciated; leadership gifts of $1,000 or more will be included in future publications.

For more information, please contact Nathan Ersig, director of development–major and planned gifts, at 563-387-1862 or nersig@luther.edu, or make your gift today.