FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
East Texas Symphony Orchestra Celebrates Honorees and Begins 90th Anniversary Year
Tyler, Texas – May 21, 2025 – The East Texas Symphony Orchestra (ETSO) will host a special celebration marking the close of another exceptional season and launching into its 90th anniversary. The festive event will be held on May 28, 2025, at Willow Brook Country Club, beginning at 4:00.
This exclusive event will commemorate ETSO’s remarkable journey since its founding in 1936, highlighting decades of artistic excellence and music education. Central to the festivities will be the recognition of three extraordinary individuals whose passion and dedication has significantly shaped the orchestra’s legacy.
Betty Bower, Director Emerita, has been integral to ETSO since the 1980s, leading in numerous capacities including Board Chair in both 1994 and 2018. Betty’s approach to fundraising and personal philanthropy have substantially expanded community support and advanced the mission of ETSO.
Laura Hyde Barker, Director Emerita, guided ETSO through unprecedented challenges during the COVID-19 pandemic as the organization’s Board Chair. Beyond her many years of service on the ETSO Board of Directors, Laura’s leadership roles have extended beyond the orchestra, impacting organizations like the League of American Orchestras and Texas Association of Symphony Orchestras as well as a former President of the Women’s Symphony League. Her generous support and true volunteer spirit have been pivotal to ETSO’s success.
Annette Findley, Lifetime Achievement honoree, has dedicated many years as an advocate and active volunteer for the East Texas Symphony Orchestra, including service on the orchestra’s Board of Directors. Known for her warmth and hospitality, Annette has dedicated countless hours to organizing events and welcoming patrons. Her enduring support and ambassadorship continue to uplift the orchestra’s presence throughout East Texas.
The evening will also celebrate the continued leadership of Music Director and Conductor Richard Lee and Executive Director Robin Hampton, whose renewed commitments position ETSO for sustained growth, continuing to share the magic of the symphony in East Texas.
“We are incredibly proud to honor Betty, Laura, and Annette for their decades of impactful service,” said Executive Director Robin Hampton. “Their contributions are a testament to the powerful community behind ETSO, and as we enter our 90th year, their legacy will inspire us to reach new heights. Personally, I’m thrilled at the opportunity to lead ETSO through this monumental season and share our incredible symphony with more of our friends and neighbors.”
For more information about ETSO’s upcoming celebration or to support the orchestra, please visit ETSO.org or contact the ETSO office at (903) 526-3876.
Media Contact:
Robin Hampton
East Texas Symphony Orchestra
(903) 526-3876
rhampton@etso.org