It is the mission of American Friends (AFIPO) to secure the financial future of the Israel Philharmonic Orchestra (IPO) so that it may continue to travel throughout the world bringing its message of peace and cultural understanding through music. AFIPO supports the Orchestra's international touring program, educational projects, a wide array of musical activities in Israel and an endowment fund to further ensure the IPO's future. The Israel Philharmonic Orchestra is under the esteemed leadership of Music Director, Zubin Mehta.

AFIPO seeks to broaden its commitment to the Israel Philharmonic Orchestra while at the same time enlarging the Orchestra’s endowment. Funds raised by AFIPO help the Orchestra initiate and strengthen existing programs, and maintain its high standard of musical excellence without placing a financial burden on the IPO’s budget or compromising its long-term stability. Contributions help to underwrite the IPO’s international tours, expand and enhance the Orchestra’s musical programs for Israeli youth, purchase valuable instruments to enrich the sound of the Orchestra, make available fellowship opportunities for talented young musicians to join the IPO and preserve the Orchestra’s history through archival projects.

Board of Directors

East Coast Chairmen's Council

Midwest Chairmen's Council

West Coast Chairmen's Council

Staff

The Associates are a group of young professionals, between the ages of 21 and 40, in the New York tri-state area, who share an appreciation of classical music and an interest in philanthropic support of Israel. Each year AFIPO’s Associates have the opportunity to participate in a multitude of events ranging from private recitals on the Upper East Side to parties in the Meatpacking District.

AFIPO’s Associates enjoy diverse events with the hope that the programs will reach new audiences and further expand cultural enrichment. This past year’s events have included: the annual Associates Benefit Concert and Dinner featuring the IPO at Carnegie Hall and a dinner dance at The Plaza; an interactive musicale featuring Young Stars of the IPO; receptions at the homes of AFIPO Board members; Summer in the City at Mannahatta; and the annual Vintage Monday wine tasting and auction.

The Young Forum is the Associates’ membership program. Through the involvement of the Young Forum, we are building an even more successful Associates Program that will continue to offer quality musical, educational and social events. Members of the Young Forum serve as leaders of the Associates Program by participating on one or more of the following committees: Social Programs, Musical Advisory, Fundraising, Membership and Planning. Members are also invited to complimentary receptions and may purchase reduced price tickets to music appreciation events. Benefits of the three different Young Forum circles are detailed below.

Membership Circle $100/person (100% tax-deductible)

* Invitation to Young Forum Kickoff Event in the Fall
* Reduced price tickets for music appreciation events
* Priority ticketing for all events
* Invitation to Gala Kickoff when a $350 or $600 ticket is purchased
* Opportunity to participate on committees
* Listing on all Associates invitations and stationery

Virtuoso Circle $400/person or $700/couple (tax-deductible portion is $300/$500)

All benefits of the Membership Circle, plus:

* Ticket(s) to all Associates events, excluding the Gala
* Priority seating and invitation to Gala Kickoff when Gala Ticket is purchased

Maestro Circle $1,000/person or $1,800/couple (tax-deductible portion is $700/$1,200)

All benefits of the Virtuoso Circle, plus:

* Ticket(s) to the annual Associates New York Gala Concert and Dinner (preferred seating)
* Invitation to Gala Kickoff

If you decide you are not able to join at this time, you will still be able to participate in Associates events throughout the year. If you have any questions, would like to join or would like additional information, please contact us by phone 212-697-2949 or e-mail associates@afipo.org.