the experiences

Challenge

To inspire and enlist members of Cornell University's Trustee Advisory Council to support student scholarship during a weekend-long campus gathering.

Approach

Individually, you make a lovely sound — together, we make beautiful music. “Play your part” was the message of the evening at a Feats-orchestrated (pun intended!) event designed to convey the collective power of contributing to scholarship funds for deserving students.

First, we engaged.  The traditional big dinner and podium-planted speakers was replaced with smaller break-out gatherings where trustees could hear and talk directly with students who’d benefitted from past efforts.  Next, we escorted guests to a campus concert hall where we brought the message to lyrical life.

The music began as a fedored sax player lifted hat and head to reveal that he was, in fact, University President David Skorton.  A now-elated crowd paid rapt attention as Skorton and others introduced and told the stories of alumni who’d given their time, talents and treasure over the years to support much needed scholarship.

Cornell orchestra conductor Cynthia Johnson Turner and Master Conductor of Ceremonies Boris Brott then spoke of the magic of the orchestra and how each individual instrument, note and part comes together to create a grand sound — to make a tremendous impact.  Guests were given xylophone tone bars and were conducted through rounds of recognizable tunes. When a campus favorite was proving too much for the five-note “band,” the audience found themselves amid a surprise visit from the full Cornell orchestra and student choir who joined them in a rousing rendition of Give My Regards to Davy.  The power of more.

Impact

When we all play our part, great — even unexpected — things happen.  There was no clearer sound, no more poignant message as Cornell Trustees left with a clear call to action and the inspiration to engage and to…perform.