Senior Center Names New Board Members

Submitted by North Shore Senior Center

North Shore Senior Center started 2015 in style with its Annual Meeting on Tuesday, January 13. The event featured the installation of seven new Center board members: Michael J. Hamblet, of Northbrook; Roger Lumpp, of Northfield; David P. Masters, of Lake Zurich; Ellen G. Robinson, of Glencoe; C. Robert Sawyer, of Wilmette; Brian E. Smith, of Evanston; and Stuart Smith, Highland Park.

After the 30-minute business meeting, the Center presented Welz Kauffman, President and CEO of Ravinia Festival, who spoke about “Programming the Future – Challenges and Opportunities.” In his multimedia presentation, Kauffman discussed the state of classical music, its reputation as an “elitist” art form and what Ravinia has done to attract new, younger ticketholders to its Highland Park venues.

Kauffman cited the dwindling number of music conservatories and professional employment opportunities as factors that have dissuaded young people from pursuing classical music careers. He also noted that ethnic – particularly European -- ties to classical music that were strong during the previous century faded as America became more culturally diverse. However, Kauffman also noted that unique methods of showcasing classical music, particularly in TV and movie scores, have generated interest with new audiences. He also discussed his methods of making classical music more accessible through educational programs, affordable tickets and Ravinia’s Steans Music Institute.

North Shore Senior Center’s Annual Meeting takes place each January at the Arthur C. Nielsen, Jr. Campus, 161 Northfield Road, in Northfield. It is free and open to the public. To learn more about past speakers or any of the Center’s programs and events, please call 847.784.6000 or visit www.nssc.org.