Asheville Symphony Announces Givens Communities as First-Ever Title Sponsor of Masterworks Series

The Asheville Symphony is proud to announce Givens Communities as the first-ever title sponsor of its Masterworks concert series.

Beginning with the 2026–2027 season, the series will officially be known as The Givens Communities Masterworks Series.

The historic partnership marks a significant expansion of the relationship between the two organizations and represents a major investment in the Asheville Symphony’s core artistic programming and community impact.

The free Symphony in the Park concert is among Asheville’s most popular events
The free Symphony in the Park concert is among Asheville’s most popular events

The Masterworks Series is the centerpiece of the Asheville Symphony’s season, featuring 14 performances annually and welcoming more than 10,000 attendees each year. Under the baton of Asheville Symphony Music Director Darko Butorac, the series brings world-class guest artists and exceptional orchestral musicians to Asheville while showcasing some of the most beloved and transformative works in the symphonic repertoire.

Support from Givens Communities will help ensure the Asheville Symphony can continue presenting artistic experiences of the highest caliber while deepening its service to the Western North Carolina community.

“It is so uplifting to see Givens Communities recognize and support the inspiring artistry that our musicians constantly bring to our Masterworks performances,” said Butorac. “Partnerships like this demonstrate a shared commitment to creating vibrant cultural experiences for our community, and we are sincerely grateful for their leadership and generosity.”

In addition to supporting the Masterworks Series, the partnership will expand collaborative programming between the Asheville Symphony and Givens Communities through new resident-centered initiatives, including the development of an on-campus Music and Wellness program. Planned activities include performances and engagement opportunities featuring Asheville Symphony musicians, Asheville Symphony leadership, and expanded outreach involving the Asheville Symphony Youth Orchestra, the Symphony’s flagship music education program.

Asheville Symphony Music Director Darko Butorac

The partnership reflects a shared commitment to community enrichment, lifelong learning, wellness through the arts, and intergenerational connection. “This is a particularly meaningful partnership because it represents an investment in the artistic heart of our organization,” said Executive Director of the Asheville Symphony Daniel Crupi. “The Masterworks Series presents world-class artists and transformative musical experiences to thousands of community members each year. Givens Communities’ decision to become its first-ever title sponsor speaks volumes about their commitment to cultural excellence in Western North Carolina. We are honored by their partnership and grateful for their leadership.”

The sponsorship is a natural extension of Givens Communities’ commitment to enhancing the quality of life and supporting vibrant cultural experiences in Western North Carolina. “The Masterworks Series has long been the centerpiece of exceptional live classical performances in Western North Carolina. We are privileged to partner with the Asheville Symphony to ensure it continues to serve as a cultural anchor for the region,” said Kevin Schwab, President & CEO of Givens Communities. “We look forward to bringing the inspiration of the Asheville Symphony’s music directly to our residents while investing in the musical experiences that bring people together from across our community.”

The announcement comes as the Asheville Symphony continues to build momentum through growing audiences, expanded community engagement initiatives, and ambitious artistic programming. The organization’s partnership with Givens Communities reflects the important role the arts play in fostering connection, wellness, and a thriving regional community.

For more information about the Asheville Symphony’s 2026–2027 season, visit www.ashevillesymphony.org.

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