The Rhode Island Philharmonic Orchestra & Music School continues to be a cornerstone of arts education and cultural life across the state—bringing the joy and discipline of music to audiences and students alike. In 2025, the organization remains steadfast in its mission to close access gaps in public schools, ensuring that every child who can benefit from music education has the opportunity to participate.

The relationship with the Rhode Island Philharmonic is personal for the White Family Foundation. The family’s passion for the Philharmonic was built on John Sr and Happy White’s indelible love of music and their sense of the importance that Rhode Island should have a first-class philharmonic orchestra. Even as the Philharmonic rebuilds from years of pandemic-related losses, its commitment to both performance excellence and community engagement has never wavered. With continued support from the White Family Foundation, the Philharmonic can sustain its dual role as a world-class orchestra and a vital educational resource—nurturing creativity, resilience, and connection through the universal language of music.