Why do people make planned gifts?
Planned gifts (most commonly a donation made in your will or trust) cost nothing today and allow you to make an incredible impact, which is why so many people choose to make them.
There are some other exciting but less common gifts — scroll down to learn more!

The Sun Valley Music Festival educates, stimulates, fosters new friendships, and brings tremendous joy to us each summer. I could not imagine a season void of the magnificent music that echoes in our valley. I hope to preserve this treasure for generations to come!
Encore Society Member

Popular gifts for the future
See what types of gifts many people choose to make. Many people make these to honor a loved one, to show what’s important in their life.

Gifts in a will or trust
Donations in your will or trust are (by far) the most popular type of planned gift. Learn more, or get help starting your will or trust – for free!

Beneficiary designations
Gifting assets not covered by your will — like 401(k) or IRA accounts — may help your heirs avoid unwanted taxes, even if you’re below the estate tax threshold.
Popular gifts for today
Many people love these donation options because they fit with their personal circumstances and financial goals.
Gifts that pay you back
Give assets while providing yourself or others with income for a period of time or distributions at a later date.
Stocks and securities
Many people love donating stock or mutual funds because it may help them avoid paying capital gains taxes.
Donor Advised Funds
Easily recommend grants to Sun Valley Music Festival for tax-efficient giving.
Qualified Charitable Distributions
Use your IRA to make tax-free gifts that benefit you and the Festival’s mission.
Please let us know if you’ve already included us in your estate plans!
If you’ve already made a gift, let us know by completing this form and emailing it to info@svmusicfestival.org. Doing so ensures your gift is used as you intend and welcomes you into the Encore Society. If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to contact us.
Planned giving helps fuel the Festival’s mission
Supporters of the Sun Valley Summer Symphony have felt strongly that it is an asset that so enriches their experience and the life of the valley that they would like to have confidence that it will continue even after they are no longer around to enjoy it.
MEMBER BENEFITS
- Recognition in Music Festival publications
- Invitation to annual Encore Society appreciation event with Alasdair Neale
- Invitation to annual Winter Celebration
- Advanced ticketing to annual fundraising gala
- Your contribution will be added to the Music Festival’s endowment, helping ensure sustainable funding for free classical music concerts and education programs

Frequently Asked Questions
Yes! Gifts of any size are deeply appreciated. Many people choose to leave a percentage of their estate, which scales up or down with your estate size.
While it is always helpful for our staff to know your intentions in advance, please rest assured that we are happy to keep your contribution anonymous in any public listings. You are always welcome to withhold details about your gift, should you prefer.
The Music Festival has partnered with FreeWill to help you make a will or trust at no cost to you. You can use this to complete your plans, or you may choose to use the same tools to get your affairs in order before visiting an attorney (who is likely to have a fee associated with finalizing your plans).
Yes. You can update your documents on the FreeWill website at any time, free of charge. We know life is always changing, and we’re here to help you keep your wishes up to date.
Yes! FreeWill will never share your personal information without your permission.
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The Festival’s Development Team is here help you meet your goals!
The Team would be happy to speak with you in confidence about your giving goals, with no obligation.
Already included the Music Festival in your estate plan? Let the Festival know
