FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
October 6, 2026
Contact: Jenni Shrum,
Director of Marketing & Public Relations
(405) 231-0145
jenni@okcphil.org
“October 17 celebration invites guests to “Move Music Forward” while welcoming Wiggin as the 2026 Maestro’s Circle Inductee.”
OKLAHOMA CITY — Before the musicians take the stage, before the audience enters the concert hall, and before the music reaches your ears, someone helps make that moment possible. For generations, community support has sustained the work of the orchestra, inside and outside the concert hall.
This fall, the Oklahoma City Philharmonic will celebrate one of the people who has helped bring music to life at the tenth annual 2026 Maestro’s Ball, honoring Chuck Wiggin as this year’s Maestro’s Circle inductee.
The celebration takes place Saturday, October 17, 2026, at Oklahoma City Golf & Country Club, with cocktails beginning at 6:30 p.m., with dinner and entertainment to follow.
Under the theme “Move Music Forward,” the evening brings together music lovers, community leaders, and supporters for a celebration whose impact reaches well beyond the ballroom. Support helps sustain OKCPHIL’s performances, free community concerts, and music education programs serving thousands throughout Oklahoma.
At the heart of this year’s celebration is Wiggin’s enduring commitment to orchestral music and the cultural life of Oklahoma City.
Chuck and his late wife, Renate, began supporting the Oklahoma Symphony Orchestra in 1978 and continued that commitment with the Oklahoma City Philharmonic when it was founded in 1988. Through a leadership gift, they established the Wiggin New Audiences Fund held at the Oklahoma City Community Foundation, supporting the audience development and experimental concert endeavors. Renate was inducted into the Maestro’s Circle in 2022. Chuck’s recognition adds a new chapter to their family’s lasting connection with the orchestra.
“Chuck believes that a thriving orchestra helps create a thriving community,” said Brent Hart, Executive Director of the Oklahoma City Philharmonic. “His generosity has helped us seek out new projects and collaborations that connect more people with orchestral music. We are delighted to honor his lasting contributions and celebrate the difference he continues to make.”
The evening is led by Maestro’s Ball Co-Chairs Rachael Geiger and Cory Lloyd, with past presidents of the Oklahoma City Orchestra League serving as honorary chairs. Their involvement celebrates the generous leadership and volunteer service that they have helped keep music an essential part of Oklahoma’s cultural life.
For guests, Maestro’s Ball offers an opportunity to turn a memorable night out into something lasting: a student’s discovery, a family’s shared experience, or a musical moment that brings a community together.
On October 17, every toast will celebrate the music and the people who are helping to write its next chapter.
RESERVATIONS AND SPONSORSHIPS:
Individual tickets are $350. Tickets, sponsorship opportunities and donation information are available at okcphil.org or by calling (405) 232-7575.
2026 Maestro’s Ball: Move Music Forward
Saturday, October 17, 2026
6:30 p.m. cocktails | Dinner and entertainment to follow
Oklahoma City Golf & Country Club
7000 NW Grand Blvd., Nichols Hills
About the Oklahoma City Philharmonic
Founded in 1988, the Oklahoma City Philharmonic has inspired audiences for more than three decades through exceptional orchestral performances, innovative programming, and meaningful community engagement. Under the direction of Music Director Alexander Mickelthwate, the orchestra presents Classics, The Chickasaw Nation Pops, Discovery Family Concerts, and a wide range of educational and community performances. The Oklahoma City Philharmonic’s mission is to provide musical experiences that inspire, connect, and strengthen our community, ensuring the transformative power of music is accessible to everyone. For more information, contact us at okcphil.org, 501 Couch Drive, Oklahoma City, OK 73102.
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