Like many cultural actors in Florida, South Florida Symphony Orchestra (SFSO) suffers from the dictatorial funding cut by Florida’s governor De Santis. Now the orchestra launches a partnership with Transcend Cruises to bridge its funding gap.
This creative alliance with Transcend Cruises is starting with the ‘Great Composers Along the Rhine River’ cruise aboard the river vessel The Gentleman in June 2025. This cruise will combine fine cuisine and destinations that the classical masters called home, the orchestra says. The seven-night upscale river cruise will enable guests to enjoy art, architecture, and classical performances in the region. The cruise departs from Amsterdam, Netherlands, with planned stops in Bonn, Koblenz, Rüdesheim, Mainz, Wertheim, Würzburg, Bayreuth, and Nürnberg, Germany.
“South Florida Symphony Orchestra annually budgets $150,000 unrestricted operating funds toward its community outreach and educational programs, however, the arts and culture funding budget cut in Florida has challenged our ways and means,” said Jacqueline Lorber, CEO and president of SFSO. “In order to continue providing diverse and vibrant musical experiences, foster upcoming musicians and contribute to our region’s economic vitality, we needed to get creative with alternative funding sources. We are grateful for our wonderful new partner, Transcend Cruises, who has graciously designed this incredible luxury European cruise that speaks to both classical music and travel lovers. This venture will help make our budget whole.”
