The Alexandria Symphony Orchestra (ASO) announced on Friday that it will perform again this year at the annual Alexandria birthday celebration on Saturday July 10. The symphony will be the musical highlight as it does every year.

No word on whether there will be fireworks.

“A lot of people don’t know that our professional orchestra is able to perform at public events thanks to the generosity of citizens and local businesses,” said Melynda Wilcox, ASO Board Chair. “This year, two local businesses stepped up to make this performance possible, and we hope more will decide to participate as the plans take shape.”

The two companies providing the main support for this event are both Alexandrian-owned.

Ronal Butler, of Network Technology and Engineering, is an “Alexandrian Legend” and a minority entrepreneur who supports STEM education through the Allie Butler Centennial Scholarship Fund. The Detroit native adopted Alexandria as his home in 1990 and served on the ASO Board of Directors since 2001 and as President from 2011 to 2017. Other leadership contributions include service, the Rotary Club of Alexandria Central, the Alpha Phi Alpha Brotherhood and the Sigma Pi Phi Brotherhood.

Keith Stalder, of KSA Integration, grew up in Alaska and made his home in Alexandria after 38 years in the Marine Corps. Among other activities, his company operates the Marine Corps Wounded Warrior Call Center and supports many other veterans organizations. As a veteran-owned small business owner with service disabilities, he explores how the arts, especially music, help build community and bring people together in a positive way. KSA Integration is a three-year winner of Best Workplaces Inc.

The Alexandria Symphony has made huge strides in COVID-induced cancellations of its traditional concert series. He has produced virtual programs and pioneered the programming of musical events sponsored by many emerging local businesses who also appreciate the positive effect of music in our community.

The symphony hopes to attract many other businesses, large and small, to its creative programming. For more information contact ASO General Manager at 703-548-0885 or visit www.alexsym.org.