Coastal Concerts

### About Coastal Concerts (CoCo 25) Coastal Concerts, also known as CoCo 25, is a non-profit organization dedicated to enriching the cultural landscape of its community through classical music. Since its inception in 1997, Coastal Concerts has been committed to bringing world-class, internationally acclaimed artists and groups to perform in intimate settings for the residents of Lewes, Delaware, and surrounding areas. The organization operates under the tax-exempt status of a 501(c)(3) and has been a vital part of the local arts scene for over a quarter of a century. #### History The idea for Coastal Concerts was conceived in the fall of 1997 by Gavin and Lou Braithwaite, owners of The Stepping Stone craft gallery, Puzzles, and Union Jack in downtown Lewes. They recognized a need for live music during the town's off-season and sought to address the community's desire for cultural events without the need to travel to larger cities. The Braithwaites, along with a group of music enthusiasts and friends, including Iris and Jerry Brock, Betty and Gary Grunder, Margaret and Fred Prausnitz, Laurie and Lloyd Mills, Betsy and Jay Reamer, Pat and Steve Rogers, and Chris and Walt Rosen, set the foundation for what would become Coastal Concerts. In January 2000, Coastal Concerts was officially incorporated and began hosting performances in Lewes. The organization was initially an all-volunteer effort, with Lou Braithwaite serving as the first president. The early years saw the group gaining experience by joining forces with Concerts at the Beach in the Bethany Beach community before hosting their own concerts in Lewes. #### Achievements and Outreach Since its establishment, Coastal Concerts has presented over 113 concerts, bringing the joy of classical music to more than 30,000 enthusiasts. The organization has awarded $52,470 in scholarships to 61 talented music students and has provided over 157 instruments to local schools through the Toot Your Horn initiative. Coastal Concerts also offers master classes in local schools, provided by visiting world-class artists, and collaborates with organizations like First State Community Action Agency and La Esperanza to reach diverse populations with limited access to classical music. In 2002, Coastal Concerts introduced a music scholarship program to support young musicians, and in 2021, they began a partnership with the Curtis Institute of Music, featuring a Curtis Chamber group each season. Outreach programs have included musical story times at the Lewes Public Library, instrument donations, free performances in schools and retirement communities, and an after-school music education program. #### Governance and Support Initially managed entirely by volunteers, Coastal Concerts appointed a part-time Executive Director in December 2008. The Board of Directors brings a diverse range of skills and experiences to maintain and expand the organization's outreach. Ticket sales account for only 36% of the budget, with the shortfall made up through program booklet advertising sales, grants, individual contributions, and corporate donations. #### Invitation to the Public Coastal Concerts invites classical music lovers to join them at upcoming concerts and become involved in supporting music education in schools. The organization guarantees a thrilling experience for attendees and encourages community participation. #### Media and Contact Coastal Concerts has been featured in a recent podcast by the Delaware Division of the Arts, highlighting its contributions to the arts community. For more information, to support, or to attend a concert, individuals are encouraged to contact Coastal Concerts through their official channels. For further details and updates on Coastal Concerts, interested parties can sign up for their newsletter, which provides monthly insights into the organization's activities and upcoming events.