The beginning of a new century causes us to reflect upon our past as well as look to our future. Over the past years, the music program at the Cathedral of the Incarnation has presented a wide variety of exceptional musical performances¬concerts featuring world-class artists and musical selections in a setting not found elsewhere on Long Island. In addition to these public performances, Music in the Cathedral has provided our young choristers with unique musical training and "once in a lifetime" performance opportunities. I am sure you will agree that our program has worked hard to fulfill our mission and ministry.

As we look to the future, we see a need on Long Island for a program like ours, which not only provides local audiences with outstanding music, but also gives Long Islanders an opportunity to experience the magnificent setting of the Cathedral of the Incarnation as a performing space. How fortunate we are that this incredible building lends itself so beautifully to the Anglican Cathedral music tradition, providing an extraordinary acoustic environment for a wide variety of concert offerings.

With this need in mind, I am writing to ask for financial support. The future of the Music in the Cathedral program depends on your efforts. Even though we have carefully managed the funds available to us through the Bishop Burgess Music Endowment and Music in the Cathedral has received government arts council grants in the past two years, this income is not sufficient to cover the expenses required for the extensive program we offer. As the Cathedral of the Incarnation plans for its future, the music program is a ministry which will be examined as an integral part of our total mission, and your vote for its future is essential. Your previous contributions have enabled us to let this program grow over the years and I hope we can look for your continued support now and in the future.

For information on how to become a friend, sponsor, patron or benefactor, call 248-5704 or email me at Robert Ludwig@aya.yale.edu. Checks can be made payable to the Cathedral of the Incarnation.

Thank you for your generous support.

Robert Ludwig