Tipton’s Three Ts

Educator. Volunteer. Leader. These are the first words that come to mind when describing Spartanburg Philharmonic Board member Helen Tipton. At the same time though, they only barely begin to cover the tremendous contributions Helen makes to our organization. In fact, she fully embraces what’s at the very heart of philanthropy, generously giving her time, talent and treasure with seemingly boundless enthusiasm.

From August to June you can find Helen in a classroom, leading the Freshman Orchestra at Spartanburg High School, and teaching beginning strings at Jesse Boyd and Pine Street Elementary Schools. Somehow though, in between coordinating curriculum and giving her students individual attention, she finds time to chair the Education Committee of the Spartanburg Philharmonic Board of Directors. Helen is also a seemingly tireless advocate for arts education, devoting much of her time to the South Carolina Music Educators Association in a variety of capacities.

Helen’s passion for arts education was also a major force behind the formation of the Spartanburg Philharmonic Youth Orchestra (SPYO) as well as the group’s continued success. As a co-manager for SPYO she provides crucial support and leadership to the small, yet mighty team, as well as sharing her vibrant love of music with the student musicians. As a teacher in our own Spartanburg community, she is also an invaluable resource in connecting with other community educators across all the area school districts to promote SPYO as an enhancement to their music education programs and a enriching experience for their students.

Outside of the classroom, Helen is also a gifted musician in her own right. She first contributed her talent as a member of The Greater Spartanburg Philharmonic over 20 years ago, shortly after she first moved to Spartanburg. While a member of the orchestra, Helen was also on staff as the Music Librarian and Ensemble Coordinator during Music Director Sarah Ioannides’s tenure. In that time Helen has seen the orchestra evolve to become first the Spartanburg Philharmonic Orchestra and now the Spartanburg Philharmonic. And while she has since transitioned to occasionally playing as a substitute for the orchestra, you can still enjoy the graceful sounds of Helen’s violin in SPYO concerts, and most recently for the 2020 Link Up youth concert this past March.

Last, but certainly not least, Helen is a regular donor to the Spartanburg Philharmonic Annual Fund. However her treasure is not limited to her yearly pledge. So big is her love for the organization, particularly its mission to enrich and educate our community, that she regularly makes additional donations to support SPYO students as well as the program itself.

Ever humble, Helen would never describe herself as a paragon of philanthropy, yet her generous heart and giving spirit is undeniable. Her contributions go beyond valuable. Her tireless dedication of her time, talent, and treasure are an integral part of the continued strength and vibrancy of the Spartanburg Philharmonic.