Dallas Symphony CEO highlights 125th season, education programs and Meyerson upkeep
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Summary
Michelle Miller Burns, president and CEO of the Dallas Symphony Orchestra, briefed the Arts and Culture Advisory Commission on the orchestra’s 125th season, education reach, economic impact study and ongoing Meyerson maintenance and bond-funded projects.
Michelle Miller Burns, Ross Perot president and chief executive officer of the Dallas Symphony Orchestra, briefed the Arts and Culture Advisory Commission on the orchestra’s operations, education programs and facilities work at the Morton H. Meyerson Symphony Center.
Burns said the 2025 season marks the orchestra’s 125th anniversary and that the organization serves roughly 250,000 people annually across concerts, education and engagement programs, presenting about 150 concerts per year. She said the DSO serves 10,000 students through youth concerts and Young Strings/Young Musicians programs and that an economic-impact study with Bain estimated a $107 million annual economic impact for Dallas and North Texas. Burns said digital broadcasts have increased the DSO’s national and international visibility, with about 12 million digital views since 2021.
On the Meyerson Symphony Center, Burns said the DSO took over management of the hall about five years ago and has assumed associated maintenance responsibilities. She highlighted bond-funded projects under planning, including a high-roof project and repairs to acoustic chamber doors. Burns also described community programs — Young Strings (100% high-school graduation and 100% college-acceptance rates among participants, she said), Dallas Symphony Orchestra Cares (small ensembles visiting long-term care and hospitals), DSO on the Go and free parks concerts.
Commissioners asked about visible improvements and programming; Burns detailed McIntyre Park beautification and the DSO’s regular, free performances there. Commissioners thanked Burns for the presentation and invited commissioners and staff to attend upcoming performances at the Meyerson.
Why it matters: The briefing described significant audience reach and asserted economic benefit for Dallas, described the DSO’s role in youth music education and outlined bond-funded capital work and ongoing maintenance responsibilities that intersect with city-owned facilities and future budget planning. The commission had a short question-and-answer period and did not take formal action during the presentation.
