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SALT LAKE CITY -- It's music to the ears of the Utah Symphony and Opera: The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints Foundation announced Thursday it's donating $500,000 to the cash-strapped arts organization.
The first $200,000 is an outright contribution, and the remaining $300,000 is being donated in a challenge grant that encourages donors and businesses to make matching contributions.
"The Church has always been a huge supporter of the Utah Symphony, of course with the orchestra playing in the Tabernacle for 30 years, and giving the land for Abravanel Hall; and the foundation has always been a strong supporter on an annual basis," says Melia Tourangeaum, president and CEO of the Utah Symphony and Opera.
Deseret Management Corporation oversees the foundation, and its president, Mark Willes, says the Utah Symphony and Opera is a great asset and an important part of Utah's cultural landscape. He said he's pleased The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints Foundation can help at this critical time.
