Voorhees Society

The Voorhees Society is a group of caring people who leave a gift to the Allentown Symphony in their will, trust or estate plan.

Have you remembered the Allentown Symphony in your will?
Our future depends on you.

Joining is easy!
Share with us your intent to leave a legacy gift to the Allentown Symphony. Or donate to one of our endowed funds today.

Named in honor of Donald Voorhees
Donald Voorhees was born in Allentown in 1903. A musical prodigy, at age 12 he played piano at the Lyric Theatre (now Miller Symphony Hall). By 15, he was leading its orchestra. Four days after high school graduation, he was conducting on Broadway.

Donald became the conductor of The Bell Telephone Hour, a famous radio and TV show that brought classical music into millions of homes. He worked with stars like Anna Moffo, Placido Domingo, Richard Tucker, Benny Goodman, Victor Borge, Fred Allen and Phyllis Diller.

In 1951, Donald returned home to become the first conductor of the Allentown Symphony. He led the Orchestra for 32 years — never missing a single concert.

Donald believed music was for everyone. He gave his time, talent, and heart to Allentown.
Donald never asked for praise. He even refused a city day in his honor. What mattered most to him was the music, and the community it brought together.

His legacy lives on in every note we play.

You can carry the music forward
Imagine a community where every child learns to sing or play an instrument. Where everyone can enjoy world-class performances at Miller Symphony Hall. You can protect the music and Miller Symphony Hall for future generations.

To join the Voorhees Society or to learn more, contact:

Lori Davis, Director of Trusts, Estates and Gift Planning
Cell: 503-803-3101
Email: ldavis@allentownsymphony.org