In this episode of Fast Forward STL, Keith Alper sits down Marie-Hélène Bernard, president and CEO of the St. Louis Symphony Orchestra. She shares how one of the nation’s oldest orchestras continues to break barriers and redefine its role in the community. Drawing from her immigrant roots, she’s expanding access to music and looking to build a more inclusive future for the arts locally. Bernard also goes deep on the $140 million transformation of Powell Hall and the long-term vision that drove it. In a challenging funding landscape, she makes the case for why the arts and philanthropy are essential to innovation, education, and a thriving city. It’s an inspiring look at leadership, resilience, and the power of music to shape what’s next for St. Louis. Watch on YouTube, and listen on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite podcast platform. Love the show? Be sure to follow or subscribe.

See related stories and resources from this episode: https://www.stlmag.com/podcasts/fast-forward-stl/episode-8

Watch on YouTube: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLwYnyrcREHGmdXtX9NEhHsFKPnlX-sLmL&si=1nKDfMtmRLjbB07i

Listen on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6GMNrMGxJcajuyAsnAAkTa

Listen on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/fast-forward-stl/id1862226079

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