Brenda Feinen

Binghamton Philharmonic subscriber Brenda Feinen is the Assistant to the Dean of Research at the Thomas J. Watson School of Engineering and Applied Science at Binghamton University. A native of Johnson City and longtime Binghamton resident, Brenda is the mother of three children -- her oldest, Binghamton High School senior Charlie Ostrander, is starting a term as the Philharmonic's Junior Board Member this summer. Brenda is also a clarinet player and an activist for LGTBQIA+ issues. We had the opportunity to chat with Brenda recently about her experiences as a Philharmonic concert-goer and subscriber.

Binghamton Philharmonic: What inspired you to subscribe to the Philharmonic?

Brenda Feinen: In March of 2022, the Binghamton University Alumni Association provided discounted tickets for the Philharmonic's Pops at the Forum concert, so I purchased four -- one for me and each of my three children. As often happens when you're wrangling kids, we arrived late! But as we were rushing through the doors at the Forum, we ran into Brian Nayor, the Philharmonic's Director of Development and Patron Relations. Brian was extremely understanding about our predicament, and we also connected over our shared Binghamton University experiences (we attended around the same time). The concert was wonderful, and I fell in love with the Philharmonic that afternoon, but I really made the decision to become a subscriber because of Brian. 

BP: What are your favorite things about being a subscriber?

BF: Music is a big part of my family's culture. I played clarinet from third grade all the way through my senior year of high school. My parents were so supportive of my journey, showing up to all of my performances and actually enjoying being there! My oldest son, Charlie, has also been a member of his school orchestras since third grade, starting out as a violinist and now playing bass as a rising senior at Binghamton High School. And now my daughter is starting third grade at Calvin Coolidge in the fall -- I love the music teachers there! -- and I hope she will pick up an instrument as well.

Music is important to us, so I love that my children and I have access to great music all throughout the year. Hearing the incredible musicians of the Philharmonic has also given them an example of what they can achieve through dedication and hard work. 

BP: Your son Charlie is going to be serving as a Philharmonic Junior Board Member this year. Can you talk about the ways that being a Philharmonic subscriber has enhanced your family's life?

BF: For me, it's huge to be able to offer my children these glimpses into adult life, to show them that the passions you cultivate as a child can continue into adulthood.

And as a queer woman, the mother of trans children, and an active participant in Binghamton University's queer community, I know how much representation matters. When I attend Philharmonic concerts with my family, we take up space; we're increasing our visibility, and representing and supporting the LGBTQIA+ community. I like to share news about upcoming Philharmonic events with my friend groups -- not only to share the music I love, but also to build awareness of the LGBTQIA+ presence in the greater community. 

BP: Do you and your family have any special concert-going traditions?

BF: Yes . . . quickly scrambling to get there on time, looking for a parking spot, and finally ooohhh-ing and aaahhh-ing over the amazing view from our seats at the Forum! This includes, but is not limited to: patience, deep breathing exercises, finding earbuds for my daughter who has an attention disorder (to help minimize disruption and enhance her enjoyment), more breathing exercises . . . I love the architecture and design of the Forum, so my daughter and I will stretch our legs and walk around at intermission, checking out the sights and just enjoying the uniqueness of the theatre. 

BP: What would you most like our community to know about the Philharmonic?

BF: The Philharmonic is for all of us. It's not just for the "high society" members of our community. So many great seats in the Forum are affordable, and the performances are so enjoyable. Attending a Philharmonic concert is a great way to de-stress, be present, feel the emotion of the score, and support our community. Classical music is truly for everyone!

We couldn't agree more, Brenda! We're so glad that you and your family are part of our Philharmonic Family!