American Friends of the Israel Philharmonic Orchestra

American Friends of the Israel Philharmonic Orchestra (AFIPO) is a non-profit organization dedicated to supporting the Israel Philharmonic Orchestra (IPO), one of the world's premier symphonic ensembles. The AFIPO's mission involves fostering the IPO's artistic programs, international touring, and educational initiatives, thereby ensuring that the orchestra continues to serve as a cultural ambassador for Israel globally. === History === The origins of the Israel Philharmonic Orchestra date back to 1936 when Polish violinist Bronislaw Huberman founded the orchestra to save Jewish musicians from the Holocaust. The IPO was established as an "orchestra of soloists" with nearly 1,000 musicians and their families immigrating to Israel. The IPO's inaugural concert took place on December 26, 1936, in Tel Aviv, conducted by Arturo Toscanini, who famously stated, "I am doing this for humanity." The orchestra played a significant role in Israel's history, performing "Hatikvah" at the Declaration of Independence ceremony in 1948. Over the years, the IPO has been led by illustrious conductors, including its long-standing Music Director Zubin Mehta, who served for 50 years before his retirement in 2019. Lahav Shani succeeded Mehta as Music Director, marking the beginning of a new era for the orchestra. The American Friends of the Israel Philharmonic Orchestra was formally established in 1980 to provide financial support and promote the orchestra's presence in the United States. AFIPO's growth has been significant, with the organization playing a vital role in the IPO's ability to reach international audiences and maintain its status as a leading cultural institution. === Leadership and Support === AFIPO is governed by a Board of Directors composed of influential leaders from business, society, and the arts. The board's activities are integral to the mission and vision of both the IPO and AFIPO. The organization