The professional chamber vocal ensemble, based in Northern Virginia, presents exceptional performances of traditional and newly commissioned works in the vocal chamber music repertoire — spanning classical art song, jazz, and the American songbook — while bringing educational initiatives and community programming to audiences across the region. Known for adapting choral works written for much larger ensembles into intimate performances for fewer performers, they can fill a concert hall or a living room. The music never varies in its level. Its quality, its professionalism, and its delivery remain steadfast throughout.
The Challenge Behind the Curtain
For all their artistry and reach, Words&Music, Inc. has long faced the challenge that so many small arts nonprofits face: the time spent raising money for the next concert season is time taken away from the work itself. Grants have become harder to secure. Venue and operational expenses remain fixed regardless of ensemble size. The math is unforgiving, and the effects are real.A Real-World Example
When Words&Music, Inc. commissioned an original multi-movement work for vocal quartet in 2015, the project required many months of intensive fundraising before a single note could be performed. For a small organization, that kind of effort pulls focus away from the creative work itself. It is a pattern the group knows well: the bigger the artistic vision, the more time spent on sustainability rather than creation.Building Something Permanent
The Words&Music, Inc. Endowment Fund, established by Susan and Steve Wagoner in partnership with the Community Foundation for Northern Virginia (CFNOVA), is celebrating its first anniversary this July. The idea for establishing the Endowment Fund grew directly out of Susan’s work as treasurer and as a member of the Words&Music, Inc. Board of Directors. In that role, she saw firsthand the very real financial challenges unique to a small arts organization—challenges that make long-term planning difficult and leave too much of the ensemble’s future dependent on year-to-year fundraising. She also understood, on a deeply personal level, that the caliber of talent within Words&Music is too rare, too meaningful, and too important to risk losing. It became clear that if Words&Music, Inc. was to thrive, not just survive, a more sustainable and reliable source of income was needed.The mission of this Fund is to provide lasting support for Words&Music, Inc. and the exceptional work they do in performance and education across Northern Virginia. Seeded by donors who believe deeply in what Words&Music, Inc. brings to this region, the Fund provides a permanent source of support for core operating costs, making sure the basics are covered, the financial pressure eases, and the artists can do what they do best.
"CFNOVA’s role extended well beyond administering the fund. A connection with another Foundation fund partner—someone who shares a deep passion for the arts and had previously established an endowment to support artists across Northern Virginia—proved invaluable. Their experience, their recommendation, and their willingness to share their understanding of the process helped guide and ease the path forward. Through CFNOVA’s network, Words&Music, Inc. found a community of aligned funders and partners committed to ensuring that organizations like theirs have the foundation they need to thrive." - Susan Wagoner.
Looking Ahead
This endowment positions Words&Music, Inc. to pursue its mission with a confidence and ambition that was not previously possible. New commissions, expanded mentorship, broader educational programming, and deeper ties to the Northern Virginia arts community are all within reach. For an ensemble that has always accomplished a great deal with limited resources, a permanent financial foundation opens an entirely new chapter. It strengthens the organization’s capacity to grow, supporting future collaborations and new initiatives — including the possibility of hosting a chamber music festival. Words&Music, Inc. has spent years proving that chamber music is not elitist or a relic. This endowment is what lets them keep proving it.
Learn more
At the Community Foundation, we help individuals and families create endowments that support the causes they care about most—ensuring their values and generosity continue making an impact for generations. Like Susan, donors often come to us with a passion for a particular cause and a desire to make a lasting difference. We serve as a trusted partner, helping turn that vision into meaningful, long-term community impact while connecting donors to a network of like-minded philanthropists who share their commitment to creating positive change. Together, we help amplify generosity, inspire new ideas, and build a stronger community for the future.Read about the Words&Music, Inc. Endowment Fund or Establish an endowment for something you are passionate about.
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