It was one of "the" anticipated events of the social season: The Arkansas Symphony Orchestra's annual, ultra-elegant fundraiser for its worthy education programs. Opus XLI, the Symphony Grand Ball, took place Nov. 8 at the Capital Hotel.

Chaired by Diana and Phil Brandon, the black-tie event began with a cocktail reception, featuring music by the ASO Quapaw Quartet, passed morsels, a silent auction and the Simmons Bank Education Challenge, with donations being matched by Simmons Bank. A short program whose mistress of ceremonies was Nichole Niemann ("Arkansas Style," KARK) included remarks by ASO CEO Christina Littlejohn, music director Geoffrey Robinson and Phil Brandon. Among the program highlights:

A mini-concert by the Arkansas Symphony Orchestra's String Academy

A live auction, con

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