Nancy Israel

Photo by: Eugene Yankevich

Nancy Israel – Honoring Bill with a Legacy to Inspire a Passion for Music in Future Generations - Estate Gift

"It all started with my late husband, Bill. A kind, generous, talented man who after retiring from a successful law career in his 80s, rediscovered a childhood passion for performing on the piano." Nancy recalls fondly Bill sharing his joy for music with her and his dream to one-day serve on the board of a symphony orchestra.

Embracing Bill's dream as her own, for 30 years Nancy has committed her life to the New West Symphony serving in various leadership roles. "My service is as much Bill's project as it is mine." Nancy especially enjoys introducing others to symphonic performances and teaching the value of supporting and growing the arts and music education in Ventura County. Nancy has been involved from the start, first stepping in mid-term as the first auxiliary President when the original president had to step down - since then, this dynamo never took her foot off the gas introducing new audience members and singing the praises of supporting the symphony. With Bill by her side, they raised over a million dollars. She is known in the community as 'Mrs. Symphony'.

Nancy's fondest memories include hosting parties and inviting world-renowned pianists to the region to entertain guests... with Bill of course, never missing an opportunity to join in! Nancy believes that if others were fully aware of the impact of music on individuals, families, and communities, they would join her sooner rather than later in supporting the symphony's future. Like Nancy, they could live a fulfilling life as she has, knowing music will be there for the enjoyment of others long after she is gone. Her life mission continues to be based on Bill's departing words, "Nancy, don't miss a beat honey, you keep going and carry on…" and she has.