The Sarasota Orchestra has received a transformative $60 million anonymous donation for its new music center construction project. The donor, who has declined naming rights, has been a long-time patron of the orchestra's programs and performances.

The funds will primarily support development of the recently acquired 31-acre site on Fruitville Road west of I-75. The planned facility includes:

• 1,700-seat concert hall
• 700-seat recital hall
• Rehearsal spaces
• Administrative offices
• Education program facilities

The total project cost is estimated between $375-425 million, with initial design concepts expected by late March. The gift comprises an initial $10 million land acquisition contribution followed by an additional $50 million commitment.

Joseph McKenna, the orchestra's President & CEO, noted this represents one of the largest gifts in Sarasota's history and demonstrates strong community support for the arts. Under new music director Giancarlo Guerrero's leadership, the facility will help attract world-class talent and enhance the orchestra's artistic capabilities.

This donation ranks as the 6th largest to North American orchestras in 25 years, according to CCS Fundraising. Notable larger gifts include:

• $120M to San Diego Symphony (2002)
• $100M to Lincoln Center/NY Philharmonic (2015)
• $85M to Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra (2009)

The donor stated that the new music center will "elevate our already wonderful orchestra to new artistic heights, inspiring future world-class performers and musicians to visit and establish roots in Sarasota."

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