Anonymous donor gives Sarasota Orchestra $50 million

The Sarasota Orchestra recently received a $50 million boost toward a capital campaign for its planned Music Center on its 32-acre site at 5701 Fruitville Road, just west of Interstate 75. 

A  long-time benefactor, who wishes to remain anonymous, had previously donated $10 million to help the orchestra to purchase the land at a cost of $14 million. The five-fold follow-up donation is intended as a catalyst to raise the money needed to build the new facility, currently estimated at $375 million to $425 million.

Expected to open in the 2029-30 season, the Sarasota Orchestra Music Center is under design to include a flexible-use performance space, multiple rehearsal and practice rooms and native landscaping to ensure a resilient and park-like setting. The facilities will add capacity for Sarasota Orchestra and other regional performing arts organizations that are challenged to secure performance and rehearsal dates.