Salem Chamber Orchestra to file for bankruptcy

The Salem Chamber Orchestra is filing for Chapter 7 bankruptcy.

Last week, the orchestra’s board of directors canceled the remaining concerts of the 2015-2016 season, because of a budget shortfall. Since then, board president Rebecca Kueny, said the board sought legal counsel and explored many options.

“We realized we weren’t going to get the funding we needed in such a short period of time,” Kueny said. “It’s a huge loss for Salem.”

Kueny anticipates the 31-year-old organization will file for bankruptcy by Friday. She estimates the process will take around three months to complete, after which the organization and board will be dissolved.

“SCO is beyond thankful to all of our patrons, donors, musicians, staff and volunteers. We all recognize how much energy, money and time has gone into the organization. We’re beyond appreciative for all of the outstanding performances we’ve had in the past 30 years,” Kueny said.

Salem Chamber Orchestra cancels season, might be done

Last week, Teresa Cox, who was serving as the orchestra’s interim executive director, said the orchestra has seen an increasing decline in revenue since the onset of the 2007 recession. In spite of cost-saving measures and efforts to recruit new and younger patrons, a significant decline in donations and ticket sales resulted in an estimated budget shortfall of $100,000.

“There comes a point where the board has to make the best business decision they can. It doesn’t have anything to do with the passion the board members have for the organization,” Cox said. “No matter what the nonprofit offers, it has to be viable as a business.”

The Grace Goudy Distinguished Artists Series, Willamette Master Chorus and the Oregon Symphony Association in Salem will accept unused chamber orchestra tickets at some of their upcoming music events. To make the exchange, contact these organizations directly.

TRastrelli@StatesmanJournal.com, (503) 983-6030, facebook.com/RastrelliSJ and on Twitter @RastrelliSJ