WSO Patrons Win Big in One Great Lottery and Give Back to Support Music
- News
By Avi Bhatt
In June’s One Great Lottery Grand Prize draw, two WSO patrons each won a share of the $250,000 Grand Prize, and both chose to put their winnings towards supporting music and community programs.
Dennis Pike (left) WSO Executive Director Angela Birdsell (right). Dennis took home $75,000 in June's Grand Prize draw and generously donated $10,000 back to the WSO’s Share the Music program.
Dennis Pike took home $75,000 and generously donated $10,000 back to the WSO’s Share the Music program, which provides tickets to economically disadvantaged children, families, and adults, so they can experience live symphony performances. Dennis’ donation will supply $5,000 worth of tickets for the 2025-26 and 2026-27 seasons, helping young music lovers from underprivileged communities enjoy the orchestra.
Reflecting on his own upbringing, he shared, “I didn’t grow up very privileged. My youth was spent mostly between Stonewall and Stony Mountain, though most of my high school years were in the city. I remember they’d send us off to the symphony after classes. You never know the impact an orchestral performance can have—people can have life-altering experiences.”
Having become a musician himself, playing guitar in local rock bands, Dennis hopes today’s young people have similar opportunities: “I remember going through all the different sections of the orchestra and learning about them. I want young ones today to have access to that.”
Another winner, Amanda Slade, took home $12,500 and is investing her winnings directly into her children’s music education. A mother of two, she describes music as a meaningful part of family life.
Amanda Slade took home $12,500 in June's Grand Prize draw and is investing her winnings directly into her children’s music education.
“My kids are musical, so we go to the symphony. I think it’s nice to give them that exposure. I’m not musical whatsoever, but I really enjoy listening and watching others play,” Amanda shared. “My son and daughter both play piano. He plays trumpet at school, and my daughter plays French horn. They’ve been part of the WSO’s Soundcheck program through their school, and they enjoy it immensely. Lately, my son has also been playing the organ at his church during mass—and he’s only thirteen!”
Amanda plans to use her winnings to support her son’s upcoming trip to the International Music Camp. She reflected on what the WSO means to her family: “I’m so happy my name was drawn and that I can give back.”
“I chose the WSO because it has enriched our lives and created lasting memories. We went to From the Inside Out as a family and got to sit on stage with the musicians, and it was unforgettable! We’re grateful for all the hard work you do and proud to help ensure that future generations can enjoy and experience the same joy and inspiration,” she added.
Thank you for supporting the Winnipeg Symphony Orchestra, Dennis and Amanda!
One Great Lottery is a fun and innovative way to raise both awareness of and funds for participating charities in Manitoba! You can choose to direct your ticket purchase to the Winnipeg Symphony Orchestra or share it amongst all participating charities.
Click the button below to purchase tickets online for August’s campaign and for more information on the prize breakdown, and partner charities. Or you can call 1-833-642-4035 to place your order over the phone.
