A Message from our Founding Director, Charles Hamlen:

Dear Friend,

Classical Action, like most ventures, started as a concept, in response to a question.

The question, posed to me in the early 1990's, was "Why isn't the classical music performing arts community more engaged in the fight against AIDS?"

The concept focused on the idea of bringing the performing arts community into this cause by offering them a variety of opportunities to offer their time and talent in support of people with AIDS and HIV around the country.

In the 16 years since Classical Action opened its fundraising doors, we have raised more than $8 million. This response certainly bears out the concept, as witnessed by the inspiring generosity of so many lovers of the arts, performing artists, managers, recording companies, administrators, and other professionals in the performing arts field who care deeply about helping those who have been impacted by the AIDS epidemic.

A concept is only as good as those who endorse it and bring it to fruition. We are blessed that so many of our colleagues and friends have chosen to do so with such unwavering and generous support over the years.