Bruce Raymer is thrilled to be a leadership donor supporting AF’s Community Access Initiative. The CAI breaks down economic barriers to attendance, making AF’s concerts accessible to diverse audiences.
Bruce recently moved to Northeast Ohio from his lifelong home of Lincoln, Nebraska to be closer to family in Medina. He is a retired teacher, counselor, and administrator for the Lincoln Public Schools, and most recently a retired YMCA Director. As a longtime baroque music enthusiast, he enjoyed listening to AF recordings on Nebraska Public Radio.
Arriving in Ohio, Bruce was delighted to hear Apollo’s Fire on Ideastream, and to discover that AF is based in Northeast Ohio. He attended his first performance of Apollo’s Fire live at St. Paul’s Episcopal in Cleveland Heights last fall and was hooked! Fire & Joy was particularly memorable for him. Bruce said of the program, “Bach and Vivaldi are two of my favorite composers and the new connections made between them at the concert were a revelation!”
Following a year of attending Apollo’s Fire concerts in Ohio, Bruce has made an incredibly generous donation. His motivation is to both ensure that Apollo’s Fire continues to grow in Northeast Ohio, and to support increased outreach to nontraditional audiences, particularly young people.
Thanks to gifts from Bruce and others, the Apollo’s Fire Community Access Initiative is a strong pillar of the organization. During the 2023-2024 Season, over 9,000 students, young adults, families, and seniors were introduced to Apollo’s Fire through free and discounted ticket programs, and community performances.
Bruce said it best – “This absolute world-class gem of an ensemble should be known by all!”
Help Bruce Keep the Fire Burning!