Southeast Iowa Symphony Orchestra representatives present a check to Fairfield High School Band students, recipients of the 2026 Ruth P. Seim Memorial Concert for a Cause intermission spotlight, on April 26 at Ottumwa’s Bridge View Center. Shown from left are: students Madalyn Smithburg, Kayla Karangi, Tristen Garretson; Fairfield Band Director Tyler Nunziato; Ruth P. Seim’s daughter, Jane Martinez of Cortez, Colo.; and Christine Bergan, president of the symphony’s Ottumwa Chapter Board.
The next generation of Fairfield musicians has received more than $2,000 from the Southeast Iowa Symphony Orchestra and its patrons.
As part of the annual Ruth P. Seim Memorial Concert for a Cause, the intermission spotlight turned to the Fairfield High School Band during the Southeast Iowa Symphony Orchestra’s Masterworks matinee April 26 at Ottumwa’s Bridge View Center.
Donations, cash at the door, and the orchestra’s ticket proceeds garnered $2,147.30 for the Fairfield Community School District’s music program. Concert attendance totaled 278, including 62 band members.
“Ruth Seim spent her career building young musicians in this community, and this concert is our way of carrying that work forward,” said Robert McConnell, the symphony’s CEO and music director. “Each year we feature a different regional student music program, and this year we’re proud to partner with the Fairfield Band — passing along more than $2,000 to support their students. We know Ruth would be smiling.”
The Fairfield district’s music program was recognized for its diligence and excellence.
“We are incredibly grateful for this opportunity,” Director Tyler Nunziato said. “Our students demonstrate dedication not only through performance, but through leadership, service and pride in their community. Being selected for this event is a testament to their hard work and the support system behind them.”
Photo by Marko Lekic
