Cleveland Orchestra Receives Epic Donation From Longtime Patrons

This week, the Cleveland Orchestra received a $4.6 million donation from longtime patrons Myrna and Jim Spira. The donation will contribute to artistic programming and pension and annual funding. It also creates the Myrna and Jim Spira Bass Clarinet Chair, currently occupied by Amy Zoloto.

Wait, what?: Myrna and Jim Spira, both originally from Cleveland, have been fans of the Cleveland Orchestra since their 20s. James C. Spira (Jim) is principal of the consulting firm Spira & Company and is committed to giving back to his community. He believes that music allows the heart and soul to move freely and is “a very important part of human life.”

Digging deeper: The Spiras’ donation to the Cleveland Orchestra will join the list of North America’s largest donations to orchestras of all-time. Given the difficulties faced by classical music institutions following the pandemic, let’s hope this donation inspires other supporters to open their pocketbooks, too.

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Sara Schabas

Sara Schabas is a soprano and writer born and bred in the heart of Toronto’s musical community. When she’s not singing opera, you can find her covering Carole King on the ukulele, biking through the Annex and advocating the merits of Puccini.