Orchestra Long Island (OLI), a Huntington-based nonprofit that continues the musical legacy of the Long Island Philharmonic, has been awarded a $5,000 grant from the Harry Chapin Foundation to support its performance and arts-in-education initiatives.
Foundation Executive Director Mike Grayeb noted that the organization was proud to support OLI, emphasizing that Harry Chapin played a key role in founding the Philharmonic in 1979 and believed strongly in the value of a vibrant arts community on Long Island. The grant recognizes OLI’s commitment to enriching the region through live orchestral performances and educational programming that benefits students across Nassau and Suffolk counties.
According to Board President Joanne Spencer, the funding will help strengthen OLI’s infrastructure by supporting the addition of a part-time arts education aide, enhancing the organization’s website and social media presence, and jump-starting new fundraising efforts. These improvements will help sustain and expand public performances, including the orchestra’s popular free-admission summer concerts.
Founded in 2017 and led by Music Director David Stewart Wiley, Orchestra Long Island is composed of professional musicians and offers a diverse repertoire ranging from classical masterworks to contemporary music, jazz, pop, rock, and Broadway selections. The orchestra regularly collaborates with community partners on free outdoor concerts and festivals and provides in-school residencies and workshops through BOCES Arts in Education programs, allowing students to perform alongside professional musicians while strengthening music education throughout the region.
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