Form990
Click to see attachment
Department of the TreasuryInternal Revenue Service
Return of Organization Exempt From Income Tax
Under section 501(c), 527, or 4947(a)(1) of the Internal Revenue Code (except private
foundations)
MediumBullet Do not enter social security numbers on this form as it may be made public.
MediumBullet Information about Form 990 and its instructions is at www.IRS.gov/form990.
OMB No. 1545-0047
2015
Open to Public Inspection
A For the 2015 calendar year, or tax year beginning 09-01-2015 , and ending 08-31-2016
BCheck if applicable:
CName of organization
BOSTON SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA INC
 
 
Doing business as
 
 
Number and street (or P.O. box if mail is not delivered to street address)
301 Massachusetts Avenue
 
Room/suite
City or town, state or province, country, and ZIP or foreign postal code
Boston, MA02115
D Employer identification number

04-2103550
E Telephone number

G Gross receipts $ 225,146,632
F Name and address of principal officer:
Mark Volpe
301 Massachusetts Avenue
Boston,MA02115
I
Tax-exempt status: (   ) LeftBullet (insert no.) or
J
Website:MediumBullet
www.bso.org
H(a)
Is this a group return for
subordinates?
H(b)
Are all subordinates
included?
If "No," attach a list. (see instructions)
H(c)
Group exemption number MediumBullet  
K Form of organization:  
L Year of formation: 1918
M State of legal domicile: MA
Part I
Summary
Activities & Governance 1 Briefly describe the organization’s mission or most significant activities: The mission of the Boston Symphony Orchestra (BSO) is to foster and maintain an organization dedicated to the making of music consonant with the highest aspirations of the musical art, creating performances and providing educational and training programs at the highest level of excellence.
2 Check this box MediumBullet
3 Number of voting members of the governing body (Part VI, line 1a) ........ 3 35
4 Number of independent voting members of the governing body (Part VI, line 1b) ..... 4 34
5 Total number of individuals employed in calendar year 2015 (Part V, line 2a) ...... 5 1,249
6 Total number of volunteers (estimate if necessary) ............. 6 1,320
7a Total unrelated business revenue from Part VIII, column (C), line 12 ........ 7a 1,780,449
b Net unrelated business taxable income from Form 990-T, line 34 ......... 7b 590,247
Revenues Prior Year Current Year
8 Contributions and grants (Part VIII, line 1h) ......... 41,549,636 32,924,905
9 Program service revenue (Part VIII, line 2g) ......... 37,298,148 41,425,137
10 Investment income (Part VIII, column (A), lines 3, 4, and 7d ) .... 23,277,983 5,454,816
11 Other revenue (Part VIII, column (A), lines 5, 6d, 8c, 9c, 10c, and 11e) 4,681,562 4,933,932
12 Total revenue—add lines 8 through 11 (must equal Part VIII, column (A), line 12) 106,807,329 84,738,790
Expenses; 13 Grants and similar amounts paid (Part IX, column (A), lines 1–3 )... 0 0
14 Benefits paid to or for members (Part IX, column (A), line 4)..... 0 0
15 Salaries, other compensation, employee benefits (Part IX, column (A), lines 5–10) 48,735,643 53,598,362
16a Professional fundraising fees (Part IX, column (A), line 11e) ..... 0 0
b Total fundraising expenses (Part IX, column (D), line 25) MediumBullet8,607,345    
17 Other expenses (Part IX, column (A), lines 11a–11d, 11f–24e).... 42,585,408 45,737,799
18 Total expenses. Add lines 13–17 (must equal Part IX, column (A), line 25) 91,321,051 99,336,161
19 Revenue less expenses. Subtract line 18 from line 12....... 15,486,278 -14,597,371
Net Assets or Fund Balances; Beginning of Current Year End of Year
20 Total assets (Part X, line 16)............. 558,346,417 558,309,675
21 Total liabilities (Part X, line 26)............. 83,071,196 99,319,054
22 Net assets or fund balances. Subtract line 21 from line 20..... 475,275,221 458,990,621
Part II
Signature Block
Under penalties of perjury, I declare that I have examined this return, including accompanying schedules and statements, and to the best of my knowledge and belief, it is true, correct, and complete. Declaration of preparer (other than officer) is based on all information of which preparer has any knowledge.
Sign Here
JumboBullet
Signature of officer Date
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Type or print name and title
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Print/Type preparer's name
Preparer's signature
Date
PTIN
Firm's name MediumBullet
Firm's EIN MediumBullet
Firm's address MediumBullet



Phone no.
May the IRS discuss this return with the preparer shown above? (see instructions) ..........
For Paperwork Reduction Act Notice, see the separate instructions.
Cat. No. 11282Y Form 990 (2015)
Form 990 (2015)
Page 2
Part III
Statement of Program Service Accomplishments
Check if Schedule O contains a response or note to any line in this Part III ..............
1
Briefly describe the organization’s mission: The mission of the Boston Symphony Orchestra (BSO) is to foster and maintain an organization dedicated to the making of music consonant with the highest aspirations of the musical art, creating performances and providing educational and training programs at the highest level of excellence.
2
Did the organization undertake any significant program services during the year which were not listed on
the prior Form 990 or 990-EZ? .....................
If "Yes," describe these new services on Schedule O.
3
Did the organization cease conducting, or make significant changes in how it conducts, any program
services? ...........................
If "Yes," describe these changes on Schedule O.
4
Describe the organization’s program service accomplishments for each of its three largest program services, as measured by expenses. Section 501(c)(3) and 501(c)(4) organizations are required to report the amount of grants and allocations to others, the total expenses, and revenue, if any, for each program service reported.
4a (Code:   ) (Expenses $ 68,815,399 including grants of $   ) (Revenue $ 39,880,928 )
Orchestra Music Programs: Through three distinct components-the Boston Symphony, the Boston Pops, and Tanglewood-the BSO offers some 320 concerts each year and reaches more than 1.2 million audience members. Internationally recognized as one of the finest orchestras, the BSO is also one of the world's largest orchestras as measured by scope of operations and the fourth-largest performing arts institution in the U.S. The 2015-2016 season began auspiciously with Music Director Andris Nelsons' signature on an extended contract through the 2021-2022 season, and his deepened connection to the orchestra developed and resonated throughout the year. Under Nelsons' direction, nearly 220,500 Winter Season tickets were distributed for 108 concerts, including BSO subscription season concerts, Open Rehearsals, BSO Chamber Players concerts, and concerts on tour in Europe and at Carnegie Hall in New York. Close to 194,000 Boston Pops tickets were sold for 86 concerts, including Holiday Pops, Spring Pops, Runout, Tours, and Special Productions. Notably, Spring Pops recorded a 24% increase in ticket sales over the previous season. In a year of record attendance, nearly 357, 000 tickets were distributed across all Tanglewood concerts, including BSO, Pops, Popular Artist, Tanglewood Music Center, Open Rehearsals, recitals, and visiting orchestras. The BSO received a 2016 Grammy Award (best orchestral performance) for its recording of Shostakovich's Symphony No. 10 and the Passacaglia from his opera "Lady Macbeth of Mtsensk." A highlight of the season's programming was the BSO's three-week festival devoted to works inspired by Shakespeare, marking the 400th anniversary of the author's death. Also notable, in late May, the BSO completed its second European tour under Nelsons' direction, solidifying the organization's renewed commitment to international performance.
4b (Code:   ) (Expenses $ 5,173,893 including grants of $   ) (Revenue $ 500,937 )
Education: Education and community programs are integral to the BSO's mission and are delivered via two avenues: 1) The Tanglewood Music Center (TMC), BSO's summer academy for rising professional musicians; and 2) Education and Community Engagement Department programs for individuals of all backgrounds. The TMC serves as a bridge from the conservatory to the professional world, where promising young musicians gain access to some of the world's finest professionals and are primed for successful performing careers. The TMC also functions as a think tank for faculty, who are encouraged to explore uncharted directions in composition, conducting, and collaboration in order to advance and influence the field. The principal areas of study and performance at the TMC are orchestral and chamber music, with an emphasis on contemporary music, vocal repertoire from art song to opera, composition, and conducting. Last summer, the TMC provided 150 of the world's most promising young musicians (representing 39 states and 17 countries) the opportunity to engage in intensive, performance-oriented work with BSO musicians, resident and guest faculty members, and visiting guest artists. TMC students presented 26 concerts of orchestral, vocal, and chamber works throughout the summer. Education and community engagement programs reached more than 34,000 students, teachers, and families, many of whom come from low-income communities in the Greater Boston area. Highlights include: 1) Youth and Family Concerts: more than 24,000 tickets distributed for 15 concerts (including Open Rehearsals, Tanglewood Family Concert, and BYSO concerts). Youth and Family Concerts explored the theme "Sound Decisions: A Musical Look at Choice, Chance, and Application" and offered young audience members and their families unique access to the full BSO and to Symphony Hall. 2,000 Boston Public School students received free tickets to Youth Concerts, and all children under the age of 18 attended Family Concerts for free. 2) Community Chamber Concerts: approximately 3,900 in attendance. BSO musicians performed free concerts led post-concert discussions in 11 different communities limited in access by distance or economics. 3) Symphony for Our City: 10 human services organizations engaged, 443 concert tickets distributed. Participants from organizations such as Project STEP and the Somerville Council on Aging/Teen Empowerment attended Boston Symphony, Boston Pops, and Tanglewood performances, plus pre-concert educational and networking activities. 4) Days in the Arts (DARTS): 398 students reached. Thanks to generous tuition subsidies, students from urban, suburban, and rural communities gained a confidence-building introduction to the arts and inclusion in a diverse, supportive community.
4c (Code:   ) (Expenses $ 1,415,835 including grants of $   ) (Revenue $ 1,701,937 )
Historic Preservation and Conservation and Facility Rental: The BSO's two main properties, Symphony Hall and Tanglewood, carry historical significance and represent popular sites supporting the Massachusetts tourist industry. Symphony Hall's acoustic qualities have earned it a place among the top three concert auditoriums in the world, a fact underscored by the hall's 1999 designation as a National Historic Landmark. Symphony Hall resonates with more than a century of performances by key artists spanning the history of classical music. In addition to BSO performances, the hall functions as a key performance venue for a number of local, national, and international ensembles and presenters, including the Handel & Haydn Society, the Celebrity Series of Boston, and the Boston Youth Symphony Orchestras. The hall has a 2625 seat capacity. Located in the Berkshire hills of Lenox, Massachusetts and established in 1936 by then-Music Director Serge Koussevitzky, Tanglewood is the summer performance home of the BSO. Tanglewood annually attracts more than 300,000 visitors and presents ten weeks of diverse programming, including concerts from the BSO, the Tanglewood Music Center, and the Pops. Tanglewood spans more than 500 acres and remains open to the public year-round, much like a state park. 23 buildings reside on the grounds, including two performance venues: the Koussevitzky Music Shed and Seiji Ozawa Concert Hall. Built in 1938, the Koussevitzky Music Shed is a seasonal hall open on three sides with 5,121 seats and additional seating for more than 10,000 on the adjacent lawn. All BSO and visiting orchestra concerts are performed in the shed. Opened in 1994, Seiji Ozawa Hall is a brick and wood structure that provides a venue for chamber music performances and serves as the headquarters of the Tanglewood Music Center. It seats up to 750 audience members on the orchestra level and an additional 450 in the two balconies, as well as hundreds more on the adjacent lawn. In 2016, Symphony Hall facilities projects included the installation of a rooftop lightning protection system, carpeting and painting work in Higginson Hall and the Miller Room, finishing renovations to the recording studio, and LED lighting upgrades. In December 2015, following initial discussions for a major renovation and possible expansion of patron spaces at Symphony Hall, BSO leadership engaged Savira Capital and Cultural Projects to undertake an integrated planning process for the future use and development of the hall. Spaces considered as part of the planning process include the envelope of Symphony Hall's main auditorium, including all current patron spaces, as well as the entire Cohen Wing complex adjacent to the hall. Evaluation and planning continued throughout the fiscal year. At Tanglewood, facilities work centered on repairs and upgrades designed to maintain the Koussevitsky Music Shed's operational integrity, enhance patron access, and improve safety, with the emphasis placed on fire prevention and pedestrian safety. Project tasks included internal and external repairs and upgrades to the Shed, water line replacement, pedestrian pathway re-grading, parking lot expansion and paving, lightning protection, restroom facility development, and water line replacement.
(Code:   ) (Expenses $ 747,635 including grants of $   ) (Revenue $ 363,195 )
Electronic Media: The BSO delivers its music not only to its live and in-house audiences but also to the millions who tune in via record, radio broadcast, and digital media. Live local broadcasts of BSO concerts continued to be featured on 99.5 Classical New England (a subsidiary of public radio station WGBH), streamed live via the WGBH website, and a few days following, via the BSO Media Center at www.bso.org/media. Online engagement continued to broaden the BSO's reach worldwide, with 1.83 million unique users visiting the BSO's website. BSO Media Center content was widely accessed as well: users streamed 70,000 podcasts and 25,000 concert recordings. The BSO's social media following continues to grow; as of September 2016, Facebook followers totaled more than 200,000 (183,213 for BSO and 21,187 for Pops) and Twitter followers totaled more than 55,000 (50,700 for BSO and 5,412 for Pops). HENRY, the BSO's performance history search module, continued to expand its capacity, with an increasing number of program book records available for download. More than 14,000 searches were performed, with approximately 5,500 program book downloads.
(Code:   ) (Expenses $ 102,795 including grants of $   ) (Revenue $ 140,768 )
Merchandise Sales: The Boston Symphony operates retail shops at both Symphony Hall and Tanglewood. These shops sell recordings of the BSO and other featured performers, books, music, posters and clothing and other items that serve to promote and disseminate the name and music of the Boston Symphony, Boston Pops and Tanglewood.
4d Other program services (Describe in Schedule O.)
(Expenses $ 850,430 including grants of $ 0 ) (Revenue $ 503,963 )
4e Total program service expensesMediumBullet76,255,557
Form 990 (2015)
Form 990 (2015)
Page 3
Part IV
Checklist of Required Schedules
Yes
No
1
Is the organization described in section 501(c)(3) or 4947(a)(1) (other than a private foundation)? If "Yes," complete Schedule AClick to see attachment.....................
1
Yes
 
2
Is the organization required to complete Schedule B, Schedule of Contributors (see instructions)? Click to see attachment...
2
Yes
 
3
Did the organization engage in direct or indirect political campaign activities on behalf of or in opposition to candidates for public office? If "Yes," complete Schedule C, Part I.............
3
 
No
4
Section 501(c)(3) organizations. Did the organization engage in lobbying activities, or have a section 501(h) election in effect during the tax year? If "Yes," complete Schedule C, Part IIClick to see attachment..............
4
Yes
 
5
Is the organization a section 501(c)(4), 501(c)(5), or 501(c)(6) organization that receives membership dues, assessments, or similar amounts as defined in Revenue Procedure 98-19? If "Yes," complete Schedule C, Part III.................
5
 
No
6
Did the organization maintain any donor advised funds or any similar funds or accounts for which donors have the right to provide advice on the distribution or investment of amounts in such funds or accounts? If "Yes," complete Schedule D, Part I..................
6
 
No
7
Did the organization receive or hold a conservation easement, including easements to preserve open space,
the environment, historic land areas, or historic structures? If "Yes," complete Schedule D, Part II...
7
 
No
8
Did the organization maintain collections of works of art, historical treasures, or other similar assets? If "Yes," complete Schedule D, Part III .............
8
 
No
9
Did the organization report an amount in Part X, line 21 for escrow or custodial account liability; serve as a custodian for amounts not listed in Part X; or provide credit counseling, debt management, credit repair, or debt negotiation services? If "Yes," complete Schedule D, Part IV..............
9
 
No
10
Did the organization, directly or through a related organization, hold assets in temporarily restricted endowments, permanent endowments, or quasi-endowments? If "Yes," complete Schedule D, Part VClick to see attachment......
10
Yes
 
11
If the organization’s answer to any of the following questions is "Yes," then complete Schedule D, Parts VI, VII, VIII, IX, or X as applicable.
a
Did the organization report an amount for land, buildings, and equipment in Part X, line 10?
If "Yes," complete Schedule D, Part VI.Click to see attachment...................
11a
Yes
 
b
Did the organization report an amount for investments—other securities in Part X, line 12 that is 5% or more of its total assets reported in Part X, line 16? If "Yes," complete Schedule D, Part VIIClick to see attachment.......
11b
Yes
 
c
Did the organization report an amount for investments—program related in Part X, line 13 that is 5% or more of its total assets reported in Part X, line 16? If "Yes," complete Schedule D, Part VIII.......
11c
 
No
d
Did the organization report an amount for other assets in Part X, line 15 that is 5% or more of its total assets reported in Part X, line 16? If "Yes," complete Schedule D, Part IXClick to see attachment............
11d
Yes
 
e
Did the organization report an amount for other liabilities in Part X, line 25? If "Yes," complete Schedule D, Part XClick to see attachment
11e
Yes
 
f
Did the organization’s separate or consolidated financial statements for the tax year include a footnote that addresses the organization’s liability for uncertain tax positions under FIN 48 (ASC 740)? If "Yes," complete Schedule D, Part XClick to see attachment
11f
Yes
 
12a
Did the organization obtain separate, independent audited financial statements for the tax year?
If "Yes," complete Schedule D, Parts XI and XII Click to see attachment.................
12a
 
No
b
Was the organization included in consolidated, independent audited financial statements for the tax year? If "Yes," and if the organization answered "No" to line 12a, then completing Schedule D, Parts XI and XII is optional Click to see attachment
12b
Yes
 
13
Is the organization a school described in section 170(b)(1)(A)(ii)? If "Yes," complete Schedule E
13
 
No
14a
Did the organization maintain an office, employees, or agents outside of the United States? .....
14a
 
No
b
Did the organization have aggregate revenues or expenses of more than $10,000 from grantmaking, fundraising, business, investment, and program service activities outside the United States, or aggregate foreign investments valued at $100,000 or more? If "Yes," complete Schedule F, Parts I and IV.........Click to see attachment
14b
Yes
 
15
Did the organization report on Part IX, column (A), line 3, more than $5,000 of grants or other assistance to or for any foreign organization? If “Yes,” complete Schedule F, Parts II and IV.....
15
 
No
16
Did the organization report on Part IX, column (A), line 3, more than $5,000 of aggregate grants or other assistance to or for foreign individuals? If “Yes,” complete Schedule F, Parts III and IV...
16
 
No
17
Did the organization report a total of more than $15,000 of expenses for professional fundraising services on Part IX, column (A), lines 6 and 11e? If "Yes," complete Schedule G, Part I (see instructions) ....
17
 
No
18
Did the organization report more than $15,000 total of fundraising event gross income and contributions on Part VIII, lines 1c and 8a? If "Yes," complete Schedule G, Part II............ Click to see attachment
18
Yes
 
19
Did the organization report more than $15,000 of gross income from gaming activities on Part VIII, line 9a? If "Yes," complete Schedule G, Part III...................
19
 
No
20a
Did the organization operate one or more hospital facilities? If "Yes," complete Schedule H....
20a
 
No
b
If "Yes" to line 20a, did the organization attach a copy of its audited financial statements to this return?
20b
 
 
Form 990 (2015)
Form 990 (2015)
Page 4
Part IV
Checklist of Required Schedules (continued)
21
Did the organization report more than $5,000 of grants or other assistance to any domestic organization or domestic government on Part IX, column (A), line 1? If “Yes,” complete Schedule I, Parts I and II.....
21
 
No
22
Did the organization report more than $5,000 of grants or other assistance to or for domestic individuals on Part IX, column (A), line 2? If “Yes,” complete Schedule I, Parts I and III........
22
 
No
23
Did the organization answer "Yes" to Part VII, Section A, line 3, 4, or 5 about compensation of the organization’s current and former officers, directors, trustees, key employees, and highest compensated employees? If "Yes," complete Schedule J....................... Click to see attachment
23
Yes
 
24a
Did the organization have a tax-exempt bond issue with an outstanding principal amount of more than $100,000 as of the last day of the year, that was issued after December 31, 2002? If “Yes,” answer lines 24b through 24d and complete Schedule K. If “No,” go to line 25a...............
24a
 
No
b
Did the organization invest any proceeds of tax-exempt bonds beyond a temporary period exception?...
24b
 
 
c
Did the organization maintain an escrow account other than a refunding escrow at any time during the year
to defease any tax-exempt bonds? ...............
24c
 
 
d
Did the organization act as an "on behalf of" issuer for bonds outstanding at any time during the year?...
24d
 
 
25a
Section 501(c)(3), 501(c)(4), and 501(c)(29) organizations. Did the organization engage in an excess benefit transaction with a disqualified person during the year? If "Yes," complete Schedule L, Part I............
25a
 
No
b
Is the organization aware that it engaged in an excess benefit transaction with a disqualified person in a prior year, and that the transaction has not been reported on any of the organization’s prior Forms 990 or 990-EZ? If "Yes," complete Schedule L, Part I ...................
25b
 
No
26
Did the organization report any amount on Part X, line 5, 6, or 22 for receivables from or payables to any current or former officers, directors, trustees, key employees, highest compensated employees, or disqualified persons? If "Yes," complete Schedule L, Part II ................Click to see attachment
26
Yes
 
27
Did the organization provide a grant or other assistance to an officer, director, trustee, key employee, substantial contributor or employee thereof, a grant selection committee member, or to a 35% controlled entity or family member of any of these persons? If "Yes," complete Schedule L, Part III.........
27
 
No
28
Was the organization a party to a business transaction with one of the following parties (see Schedule L, Part IV instructions for applicable filing thresholds, conditions, and exceptions):
a
A current or former officer, director, trustee, or key employee? If "Yes," complete Schedule L,
Part IV ........................
28a
 
No
b
A family member of a current or former officer, director, trustee, or key employee? If "Yes," complete Schedule L, Part IV.....................
28b
 
No
c
An entity of which a current or former officer, director, trustee, or key employee (or a family member thereof) was an officer, director, trustee, or direct or indirect owner? If "Yes," complete Schedule L, Part IV... Click to see attachment
28c
Yes
 
29
Did the organization receive more than $25,000 in non-cash contributions? If "Yes," complete Schedule M..Click to see attachment
29
Yes
 
30
Did the organization receive contributions of art, historical treasures, or other similar assets, or qualified conservation contributions? If "Yes," complete Schedule M .............
30
 
No
31
Did the organization liquidate, terminate, or dissolve and cease operations? If "Yes," complete Schedule N, Part I.
31
 
No
32
Did the organization sell, exchange, dispose of, or transfer more than 25% of its net assets? If "Yes," complete Schedule N, Part II ...........
32
 
No
33
Did the organization own 100% of an entity disregarded as separate from the organization under Regulations sections 301.7701-2 and 301.7701-3? If "Yes," complete Schedule R, Part I ........
33
 
No
34
Was the organization related to any tax-exempt or taxable entity? If "Yes," complete Schedule R, Part II, III, or IV, and Part V, line 1.........................Click to see attachment
34
Yes
 
35a
Did the organization have a controlled entity within the meaning of section 512(b)(13)?
35a
Yes
 
b
If ‘Yes’ to line 35a, did the organization receive any payment from or engage in any transaction with a controlled entity within the meaning of section 512(b)(13)? If "Yes," complete Schedule R, Part V, line 2 ...Click to see attachment
35b
Yes
 
36
Section 501(c)(3) organizations. Did the organization make any transfers to an exempt non-charitable related organization? If "Yes," complete Schedule R, Part V, line 2.............
36
 
No
37
Did the organization conduct more than 5% of its activities through an entity that is not a related organization and that is treated as a partnership for federal income tax purposes? If "Yes," complete Schedule R, Part VI
37
 
No
38
Did the organization complete Schedule O and provide explanations in Schedule O for Part VI, lines 11b and 19? Note. All Form 990 filers are required to complete Schedule O. ............
38
Yes
 
Form 990 (2015)
Form 990 (2015)
Page 5
Part V
Statements Regarding Other IRS Filings and Tax Compliance
Check if Schedule O contains a response or note to any line in this Part V...........
Yes
No
1a
Enter the number reported in Box 3 of Form 1096 Enter -0- if not applicable ..
1a
453
b
Enter the number of Forms W-2G included in line 1a. Enter -0- if not applicable .
1b
0
c
Did the organization comply with backup withholding rules for reportable payments to vendors and reportable gaming (gambling) winnings to prize winners? ..................
1c
Yes
 
2a
Enter the number of employees reported on Form W-3, Transmittal of Wage and
Tax Statements, filed for the calendar year ending with or within the year covered by this return ..................
2a
1,249
b
If at least one is reported on line 2a, did the organization file all required federal employment tax returns?
Note. If the sum of lines 1a and 2a is greater than 250, you may be required to e-file (see instructions)
2b
Yes
 
3a
Did the organization have unrelated business gross income of $1,000 or more during the year?...
3a
Yes
 
b
If “Yes,” has it filed a Form 990-T for this year? If “No” to line 3b, provide an explanation in Schedule O...
3b
Yes
 
4a
At any time during the calendar year, did the organization have an interest in, or a signature or other authority over, a financial account in a foreign country (such as a bank account, securities account, or other financial account)? ..
4a
 
No
b
If "Yes," enter the name of the foreign country: MediumBullet
See instructions for filing requirements for FinCEN Form 114, Report of Foreign Bank and Financial Accounts (FBAR).
5a
Was the organization a party to a prohibited tax shelter transaction at any time during the tax year? ..
5a
 
No
b
Did any taxable party notify the organization that it was or is a party to a prohibited tax shelter transaction?
5b
 
No
c
If "Yes," to line 5a or 5b, did the organization file Form 8886-T? ............
5c
 
 
6a
Does the organization have annual gross receipts that are normally greater than $100,000, and did the organization solicit any contributions that were not tax deductible as charitable contributions? ...
6a
 
No
b
If "Yes," did the organization include with every solicitation an express statement that such contributions or gifts were not tax deductible? ......................
6b
 
 
7
Organizations that may receive deductible contributions under section 170(c).
a
Did the organization receive a payment in excess of $75 made partly as a contribution and partly for goods and services provided to the payor? ....................
7a
Yes
 
b
If "Yes," did the organization notify the donor of the value of the goods or services provided? .....
7b
Yes
 
c
Did the organization sell, exchange, or otherwise dispose of tangible personal property for which it was required to file Form 8282? .........................
7c
Yes
 
d
If "Yes," indicate the number of Forms 8282 filed during the year ....
7d
1
e
Did the organization receive any funds, directly or indirectly, to pay premiums on a personal benefit contract?
7e
 
No
f
Did the organization, during the year, pay premiums, directly or indirectly, on a personal benefit contract? ..
7f
 
No
g
If the organization received a contribution of qualified intellectual property, did the organization file Form 8899 as required? ......................
7g
 
 
h
If the organization received a contribution of cars, boats, airplanes, or other vehicles, did the organization file a Form 1098-C? ..........................
7h
 
 
8
Sponsoring organizations maintaining donor advised funds.
Did a donor advised fund maintained by the sponsoring organization have excess business holdings at any time during the year? .........................
8
 
 
9a
Did the sponsoring organization make any taxable distributions under section 4966?...
9a
 
 
b
Did the sponsoring organization make a distribution to a donor, donor advisor, or related person?...
9b
 
 
10
Section 501(c)(7) organizations. Enter:
a
Initiation fees and capital contributions included on Part VIII, line 12 ...
10a
 
b
Gross receipts, included on Form 990, Part VIII, line 12, for public use of club facilities
10b
 
11
Section 501(c)(12) organizations. Enter:
a
Gross income from members or shareholders .........
11a
 
b
Gross income from other sources (Do not net amounts due or paid to other sources against amounts due or received from them.) ..........
11b
 
12a
Section 4947(a)(1) non-exempt charitable trusts. Is the organization filing Form 990 in lieu of Form 1041?
12a
 
 
b
If "Yes," enter the amount of tax-exempt interest received or accrued during the year.
12b
 
13
Section 501(c)(29) qualified nonprofit health insurance issuers.
a
Is the organization licensed to issue qualified health plans in more than one state?
Note. See the instructions for additional information the organization must report on Schedule O.
13a
 
 
b
Enter the amount of reserves the organization is required to maintain by the states in which the organization is licensed to issue qualified health plans ....
13b
 
c
Enter the amount of reserves on hand ............
13c
 
14a
Did the organization receive any payments for indoor tanning services during the tax year?.....
14a
 
No
b
If "Yes," has it filed a Form 720 to report these payments? If "No," provide an explanation in Schedule O..
14b
 
 
Form 990 (2015)
Form 990 (2015)
Page 6
Part VI
Governance, Management, and Disclosure For each "Yes" response to lines 2 through 7b below, and for a "No" response to lines 8a, 8b, or 10b below, describe the circumstances, processes, or changes in Schedule O. See instructions.
Check if Schedule O contains a response or note to any line in this Part VI ..............
Section A. Governing Body and Management
Yes
No
1a
Enter the number of voting members of the governing body at the end of the tax year
1a
35
If there are material differences in voting rights among members of the governing body, or if the governing body delegated broad authority to an executive committee or similar committee, explain in Schedule O.
b
Enter the number of voting members included in line 1a, above, who are independent
1b
34
2
Did any officer, director, trustee, or key employee have a family relationship or a business relationship with any other officer, director, trustee, or key employee? .................
2
Yes
 
3
Did the organization delegate control over management duties customarily performed by or under the direct supervision of officers, directors or trustees, or key employees to a management company or other person? .
3
 
No
4
Did the organization make any significant changes to its governing documents since the prior Form 990 was filed? ...........................
4
 
No
5
Did the organization become aware during the year of a significant diversion of the organization’s assets? .
5
 
No
6
Did the organization have members or stockholders? ................
6
 
No
7a
Did the organization have members, stockholders, or other persons who had the power to elect or appoint one or more members of the governing body? ....................
7a
 
No
b
Are any governance decisions of the organization reserved to (or subject to approval by) members, stockholders, or persons other than the governing body? ...................
7b
 
No
8
Did the organization contemporaneously document the meetings held or written actions undertaken during the year by the following:
a
The governing body? .......................
8a
Yes
 
b
Each committee with authority to act on behalf of the governing body? ............
8b
 
No
9
Is there any officer, director, trustee, or key employee listed in Part VII, Section A, who cannot be reached at the organization’s mailing address? If "Yes," provide the names and addresses in Schedule O.......
9
 
No
Section B. Policies (This Section B requests information about policies not required by the Internal Revenue Code.)
Yes
No
10a
Did the organization have local chapters, branches, or affiliates? ............
10a
 
No
b
If "Yes," did the organization have written policies and procedures governing the activities of such chapters, affiliates, and branches to ensure their operations are consistent with the organization's exempt purposes?
10b
 
 
11a
Has the organization provided a complete copy of this Form 990 to all members of its governing body before filing the form? ............................
11a
Yes
 
b
Describe in Schedule O the process, if any, used by the organization to review this Form 990. .....
12a
Did the organization have a written conflict of interest policy? If "No," go to line 13.......
12a
Yes
 
b
Were officers, directors, or trustees, and key employees required to disclose annually interests that could give rise to conflicts? ..........................
12b
Yes
 
c
Did the organization regularly and consistently monitor and enforce compliance with the policy? If "Yes," describe in Schedule O how this was done...................
12c
Yes
 
13
Did the organization have a written whistleblower policy? ...............
13
Yes
 
14
Did the organization have a written document retention and destruction policy? .........
14
Yes
 
15
Did the process for determining compensation of the following persons include a review and approval by independent persons, comparability data, and contemporaneous substantiation of the deliberation and decision?
a
The organization’s CEO, Executive Director, or top management official ...........
15a
Yes
 
b
Other officers or key employees of the organization ................
15b
Yes
 
If "Yes" to line 15a or 15b, describe the process in Schedule O (see instructions).
16a
Did the organization invest in, contribute assets to, or participate in a joint venture or similar arrangement with a taxable entity during the year? ......................
16a
 
No
b
If "Yes," did the organization follow a written policy or procedure requiring the organization to evaluate its participation in joint venture arrangements under applicable federal tax law, and take steps to safeguard the organization’s exempt status with respect to such arrangements? ............
16b
 
 
Section C. Disclosure
17
List the States with which a copy of this Form 990 is required to be filedMediumBullet
CA , MA , NJ , NY
18
Section 6104 requires an organization to make its Form 1023 (or 1024 if applicable), 990, and 990-T (501(c)(3)s only) available for public inspection. Indicate how you made these available. Check all that apply.
19
Describe in Schedule O whether (and if so, how) the organization made its governing documents, conflict of interest policy, and financial statements available to the public during the tax year.
20
State the name, address, and telephone number of the person who possesses the organization's books and records:
MediumBulletThomas D May301 Massachusetts Ave   Boston,MA021154557 (617) 266-1492
Form 990 (2015)
Form 990 (2015)
Page 7
Part VII
Compensation of Officers, Directors,Trustees, Key Employees, Highest Compensated Employees, and Independent Contractors
Check if Schedule O contains a response or note to any line in this Part VII ..............
Section A. Officers, Directors, Trustees, Key Employees, and Highest Compensated Employees
1a Complete this table for all persons required to be listed. Report compensation for the calendar year ending with or within the organization’s tax year.
RoundBullet List all of the organization’s current officers, directors, trustees (whether individuals or organizations), regardless of amount
of compensation. Enter -0- in columns (D), (E), and (F) if no compensation was paid.

RoundBullet List all of the organization’s current key employees, if any. See instructions for definition of "key employee."
RoundBullet List the organization’s five current highest compensated employees (other than an officer, director, trustee or key employee)
who received reportable compensation (Box 5 of Form W-2 and/or Box 7 of Form 1099-MISC) of more than $100,000 from the
organization and any related organizations.

RoundBullet List all of the organization’s former officers, key employees, or highest compensated employees who received more than $100,000
of reportable compensation from the organization and any related organizations.

RoundBullet List all of the organization’s former directors or trustees that received, in the capacity as a former director or trustee of the
organization, more than $10,000 of reportable compensation from the organization and any related organizations.

List persons in the following order: individual trustees or directors; institutional trustees; officers; key employees; highest
compensated employees; and former such persons.
Check this box if neither the organization nor any related organization compensated any current officer, director, or trustee.
(A)
Name and Title 		(B)
Average hours per week (list any hours for related organizations below dotted line) 		(C)
Position (do not check more than one box, unless person is both an officer and a director/trustee) 		(D)
Reportable compensation from the organization (W- 2/1099-MISC) 		(E)
Reportable compensation from related organizations (W- 2/1099-MISC) 		(F)
Estimated amount of other compensation from the organization and related organizations
Individual Trustee or Director; Institutional Trustee; OfficerInd; Key Employee; Highest compensated employee; FormerOfcrDirectorTrusteeInd;
(1) William F Achtmeyer......................................................................
Chair
 2
.................
  		X   X       0 0 0
(2) David Altshuler......................................................................
Trustee
 2
.................
  		X           0 0 0
(3) George D Behrakis......................................................................
Vice-Chair
 2
.................
  		X   X       0 0 0
(4) Paul Buttenwieser......................................................................
President
 2
.................
  		X   X       0 0 0
(5) Ronald G Casty......................................................................
Trustee
 2
.................
  		X           0 0 0
(6) Susan Bredhoff Cohen......................................................................
Trustee
 2
.................
  		X           0 0 0
(7) Richard F Connolly Jr......................................................................
Trustee
 2
.................
  		X           0 0 0
(8) Cynthia Curme......................................................................
Vice-Chair
 2
.................
  		X   X       0 0 0
(9) Alan J Dworsky......................................................................
Trustee
 2
.................
  		X           0 0 0
(10) William R Elfers......................................................................
Trustee
 2
.................
  		X           0 0 0
(11) Thomas E Faust Jr......................................................................
Trustee
 2
.................
  		X           0 0 0
(12) Michael Gordon......................................................................
Trustee
 2
.................
  		X           0 0 0
(13) Brent L Henry......................................................................
Trustee
 2
.................
  		X           0 0 0
(14) Susan Hockfield......................................................................
Trustee
 2
.................
  		X           0 0 0
(15) Barbara W Hostetter......................................................................
Trustee
 2
.................
  		X           0 0 0
(16) Stephen Kay......................................................................
Trustee
 2
.................
  		X           0 0 0
(17) Edmund Kelly......................................................................
Trustee
 2
.................
  		X           0 0 0
Form 990 (2015)
Form 990 (2015)
Page 8
Part VII
Section A. Officers, Directors, Trustees, Key Employees, and Highest Compensated Employees (continued)
(A)
Name and Title 		(B)
Average hours per week (list any hours for related organizations below dotted line) 		(C)
Position (do not check more than one box, unless person is both an officer and a director/trustee) 		(D)
Reportable compensation from the organization (W- 2/1099-MISC) 		(E)
Reportable compensation from related organizations (W- 2/1099-MISC) 		(F)
Estimated amount of other compensation from the organization and related organizations
Individual Trustee or Director; Institutional Trustee; OfficerInd; Key Employee; Highest compensated employee; FormerOfcrDirectorTrusteeInd;
(18) Joyce G Linde........................................................................
Trustee
 2
.......................   		X           0 0 0
(19) John M Loder........................................................................
Trustee
 2
.......................   		X           0 0 0
(20) Nancy K Lubin........................................................................
Trustee
 2
.......................   		X           0 0 0
(21) Joshua A Lutzker........................................................................
Trustee
 2
.......................   		X           0 0 0
(22) Carmine A Martignetti........................................................................
Vice-Chair
 2
.......................   		X   X       0 0 0
(23) Robert J Mayer MD........................................................................
Trustee
 2
.......................   		X           0 0 0
(24) Susan W Paine........................................................................
Trustee
 2
.......................   		X           0 0 0
(25) John Reed........................................................................
Trustee
 2
.......................   		X           0 0 0
(26) Carol Reich........................................................................
Trustee
 2
.......................   		X           0 0 0
(27) Arthur I Segel........................................................................
Trustee
 2
.......................   		X           0 0 0
(28) Roger T Servison........................................................................
Trustee
 2
.......................   		X           0 0 0
(29) Wendy Shattuck........................................................................
Trustee
 2
.......................   		X           0 0 0
(30) Theresa M Stone........................................................................
Treasurer
 2
.......................   		X   X       0 0 0
(31) Caroline Taylor........................................................................
Trustee
 2
.......................   		X           0 0 0
(32) Stephen R Weber........................................................................
Trustee
 2
.......................   		X           0 0 0
(33) Roberta S Weiner........................................................................
Trustee
 2
.......................   		X           0 0 0
(34) Robert C Winters........................................................................
Trustee
 2
.......................   		X           0 0 0
(35) D Brooks Zug........................................................................
Trustee
 2
.......................   		X           0 0 0
(36) Mark Volpe........................................................................
Managing Director
 50
.......................1 		    X       770,527 0 61,201
(37) Thomas D May........................................................................
Chief Financial Officer
 50
.......................1 		    X       261,678 0 38,039
(38) Bart Reidy........................................................................
Clerk of the Board
 50
.......................   		    X       215,860 0 50,481
(39) Kim Noltemy........................................................................
Chief Operating and Communications Officer
 50
.......................   		      X     252,768 0 57,696
(40) Malcolm Lowe........................................................................
Concertmaster
 40
.......................   		        X   415,402 0 34,125
(41) John A Ferrillo Jr........................................................................
Principal Oboe
 40
.......................   		        X   286,621 0 60,891
(42) Thomas C Rolfs Jr........................................................................
Principal Trumpet
 40
.......................   		        X   279,073 0 63,124
(43) Steven Ansell........................................................................
Principal Viola
 40
.......................   		        X   264,251 0 56,089
(44) Timothy Genis........................................................................
Timpanist
 40
.......................   		        X   255,324 0 23,750
1b Sub-Total................MediumBullet
c Total from continuation sheets to Part VII, Section A....MediumBullet
d Total (add lines 1b and 1c)...........MediumBullet 3,001,504 0 445,396
2
Total number of individuals (including but not limited to those listed above) who received more than $100,000 of reportable compensation from the organization MediumBullet138
Yes
No
3
Did the organization list any former officer, director or trustee, key employee, or highest compensated employee on line 1a? If "Yes," complete Schedule J for such individual ..............
3
 
No
4
For any individual listed on line 1a, is the sum of reportable compensation and other compensation from the organization and related organizations greater than $150,000? If "Yes," complete Schedule J for such
individual...........................
4
Yes
 
5
Did any person listed on line 1a receive or accrue compensation from any unrelated organization or individual for services rendered to the organization? If "Yes," complete Schedule J for such person ........
5
 
No
Section B. Independent Contractors
1
Complete this table for your five highest compensated independent contractors that received more than $100,000 of compensation from the organization. Report compensation for the calendar year ending with or within the organization’s tax year.
(A)
Name and business address 		(B)
Description of services 		(C)
Compensation
David J Tierney Jr Inc

169 Gale Avenue
Pittsfield,MA01201 		Construction Contractor 1,391,786
Andris Nelsons,
Konzertdirektion Schmid
40 St Martins Lane
London,,UKWC2N 4ER
UK 		Services of A. Nelsons 1,301,000
Isole Inc

252 Kent Street
Brookline,MA02446 		Services of K. Lockhart 788,958
Great River Construction Co

PO Box 401
Great Barrington,MA01230 		Construction Contractor 783,885
Travtours Inc

72-171 Hwy 111
Suite 202
Palm Desert,CA92160 		Tour Operator 731,901
2
Total number of independent contractors (including but not limited to those listed above) who received more than $100,000 of compensation from the organization MediumBullet18
Form 990 (2015)
Form 990 (2015)
Page 9
Part VIII
Statement of Revenue
Check if Schedule O contains a response or note to any line in this Part VIII .............
(A)
Total revenue 		(B)
Related or
exempt
function
revenue 		(C)
Unrelated
business
revenue 		(D)
Revenue
excluded from
tax under sections
512-514
Contributions, Gifts, GrantAmt and OtherAmt Similar Amounts 1a Federated campaigns..1a 0
b Membership dues..1b 0
c Fundraising events..1c 3,306,009
d Related organizations1d 0
e Government grants (contributions)1e 520,198
f All other contributions, gifts, grants, and similar amounts not included above1f 29,098,698
g Noncash contributions included in lines 1a-1f:$ 4,151,523
h Total.Add lines 1a-1f.......MediumBullet 32,924,905
Program Service RevenueAmt Business Code
2a Concerts & tours 900099 39,880,928 39,880,928 0 0
b Program advertising 511190 658,339 0 658,339 0
c Education 900099 500,937 500,937 0 0
d Electronic media 900099 363,195 363,195 0 0
e Parking 900099 21,738 0 0 21,738
f All other program service revenue. 0 0 0 0
g Total.Add lines 2a–2f.....MediumBullet 41,425,137
OtherAmt RevenueAmt 3 Investment income (including dividends, interest, and othersimilar amounts) ..........MediumBullet 2,029,816 0 0 2,029,816
4 Income from investment of tax-exempt bond proceedsMediumBullet 0 0 0 0
5 Royalties...........MediumBullet 0 0 0 0
(ii) Personal (i) Real
6a Gross rents 0 4,490,758
b Less: rental expenses 0 1,461,545
c Rental income or (loss) 0 3,029,213
d Net rental income or (loss)......MediumBullet 3,029,213 1,701,937 0 1,327,276
(ii) Other (i) Securities
7a Gross amount from sales of assets other than inventory 0 140,609,160
b Less: cost or other basis and sales expenses 0 137,184,160
c Gain or (loss) 0 3,425,000
d Net gain or (loss).....MediumBullet 3,425,000 0 717,410 2,707,590
8a Gross income from fundraising events (not including $ 3,306,009of contributions reported on line 1c). See Part IV, line 18 ....
a 282,751
b Less: direct expenses ...b 1,158,244
c Net income or (loss) from fundraising events..MediumBullet -875,493 0 -875,493
9a Gross income from gaming activities.
See Part IV, line 19 ...
a  
b Less: direct expenses ...b  
c Net income or (loss) from gaming activities..MediumBullet        
10a Gross sales of inventory, less
returns and allowances ..
a 1,149,361
b Less: cost of goods sold ..b 603,893
c Net income or (loss) from sales of inventory..MediumBullet 545,468 140,768 404,700 0
Business Code Miscellaneous Revenue
11a Food and beverage 900099 2,234,744 0 0 2,234,744
b            
c            
d All other revenue .... 0 0 0 0
e Total. Add lines 11a–11d ...... MediumBullet 2,234,744
12 Total revenue. See Instructions......MediumBullet 84,738,790 42,587,765 1,780,449 7,445,671
Form 990 (2015)
Form 990 (2015)
Page 10
Part IX
Statement of Functional Expenses
Section 501(c)(3) and 501(c)(4) organizations must complete all columns. All other organizations must complete column (A).Check if Schedule O contains a response or note to any line in this Part IX ..............
Do not include amounts reported on lines 6b,
7b, 8b, 9b, and 10b of Part VIII. 		(A)
Total expenses 		(B)
Program service expenses 		(C)
Management and general expenses 		(D)
Fundraising expenses
1 Grants and other assistance to domestic organizations and domestic governments. See Part IV, line 21    
2 Grants and other assistance to individuals in the United States. See Part IV, line 22    
3 Grants and other assistance to governments, organizations, and individuals outside the United States. See Part IV, lines 15 and 16    
4 Benefits paid to or for members    
5 Compensation of current officers, directors, trustees, and key employees .... 1,853,914   1,351,280 502,634
6 Compensation not included above, to disqualified persons (as defined under section 4958(f)(1)) and persons described in section 4958(c)(3)(B) ....        
7 Other salaries and wages 38,059,505 29,062,231 5,785,789 3,211,485
8 Pension plan accruals and contributions (include section 401(k) and 403(b) employer contributions) .... 5,465,185 3,814,459 1,169,223 481,503
9 Other employee benefits ....... 5,524,040 3,315,994 1,564,287 643,759
10 Payroll taxes ........... 2,695,718 1,541,499 819,653 334,566
11 Fees for services (non-employees):        
a Management ...... 75,000 75,000    
b Legal ......... 187,963   187,963  
c Accounting ........... 128,140   128,140  
d Lobbying ........... 56,357     56,357
e Professional fundraising services. See Part IV, line 17    
f Investment management fees ...... 1,771,000 1,771,000    
g Other (If line 11g amount exceeds 10% of line 25, column (A) amount, list line 11g expenses on Schedule O) 15,652,151 15,018,276 626,579 7,296
12 Advertising and promotion .... 3,284,304 2,879,322 122,345 282,637
13 Office expenses ....... 2,341,139 1,626,574 198,851 515,714
14 Information technology ...... 1,415,610 337,623 699,736 378,251
15 Royalties .. 34,680 34,680    
16 Occupancy ........... 3,100,896 2,418,699 434,125 248,072
17 Travel ............ 7,013,814 6,505,808 301,925 206,081
18 Payments of travel or entertainment expenses for any federal, state, or local public officials .        
19 Conferences, conventions, and meetings .... 815,797 308,954 88,711 418,132
20 Interest ........... 118,751 109,867 4,314 4,570
21 Payments to affiliates .......        
22 Depreciation, depletion, and amortization .. 5,326,463 4,031,252 792,170 503,041
23 Insurance ... 205,528 9,746 195,782  
24 Other expenses. Itemize expenses not covered above (List miscellaneous expenses in line 24e. If line 24e amount exceeds 10% of line 25, column (A) amount, list line 24e expenses on Schedule O.)
a Concert production expenses 1,300,530 1,298,144 2,386  
b Credit card fees 778,833 704,097 0 74,736
c
d
e All other expenses 2,130,843 1,392,332   738,511
25 Total functional expenses. Add lines 1 through 24e 99,336,161 76,255,557 14,473,259 8,607,345
26 Joint costs. Complete this line only if the organization reported in column (B) joint costs from a combined educational campaign and fundraising solicitation. Check here MediumBullet if following SOP 98-2 (ASC 958-720).        
Form 990 (2015)
Form 990 (2015)
Page 11
Part X
Balance Sheet
Check if Schedule O contains a response or note to any line in this Part IX ..............
(A)
Beginning of year 		(B)
End of year
Assets 1 Cash–non-interest-bearing ........ 8,353,362 1 11,258,433
2 Savings and temporary cash investments ......... 5,851,572 2 7,222,568
3 Pledges and grants receivable, net ...... 26,164,339 3 24,918,453
4 Accounts receivable, net ............. 2,807,653 4 1,932,247
5 Loans and other receivables from current and former officers, directors, trustees, key employees, and highest compensated employees. Complete Part II of Schedule L
42,144 5 27,814
6 Loans and other receivables from other disqualified persons (as defined under section 4958(f)(1)), persons described in section 4958(c)(3)(B), and contributing employers and sponsoring organizations of section 501(c)(9) voluntary employees' beneficiary organizations (see instructions) Complete Part II of Schedule L
  6  
7 Notes and loans receivable, net ....   7  
8 Inventories for sale or use ........ 547,372 8 480,496
9 Prepaid expenses and deferred charges ...... 3,299,472 9 2,805,034
10a Land, buildings, and equipment: cost or other basis. Complete Part VI of Schedule D 10a 134,761,159
b Less: accumulated depreciation 10b 81,176,740 51,929,082 10c 53,584,419
11 Investments—publicly traded securities . 78,814,082 11 68,578,142
12 Investments—other securities. See Part IV, line 11 ..... 344,860,891 12 350,822,612
13 Investments—program-related. See Part IV, line 11 ..   13  
14 Intangible assets ...............   14  
15 Other assets. See Part IV, line 11 ........... 35,676,448 15 36,679,457
16 Total assets. Add lines 1 through 15 (must equal line 34)... 558,346,417 16 558,309,675
Liabilities 17 Accounts payable and accrued expenses ..... 10,225,173 17 10,431,414
18 Grants payable ...   18  
19 Deferred revenue ......... 10,767,007 19 10,616,592
20 Tax-exempt bond liabilities .........   20  
21 Escrow or custodial account liability. Complete Part IV of Schedule D   21  
22 Loans and other payables to current and former officers, directors, trustees, key employees, highest compensated employees, and disqualified
persons. Complete Part II of Schedule L..   22  
23 Secured mortgages and notes payable to unrelated third parties .. 10,000,000 23 10,000,000
24 Unsecured notes and loans payable to unrelated third parties ..   24  
25 Other liabilities (including federal income tax, payables to related third parties, and other liabilities not included on lines 17-24). Complete Part X of Schedule D 52,079,016 25 68,271,048
26 Total liabilities. Add lines 17 through 25.. 83,071,196 26 99,319,054
Net Assets or Fund Balance Organizations that follow SFAS 117 (ASC 958), check here MediumBullet and complete lines 27 through 29, and lines 33 and 34.
27 Unrestricted net assets 62,526,357 27 44,513,076
28 Temporarily restricted net assets ........... 205,145,770 28 203,299,391
29 Permanently restricted net assets 207,603,094 29 211,178,154
Organizations that do not follow SFAS 117 (ASC 958), check here MediumBullet and complete lines 30 through 34.
30 Capital stock or trust principal, or current funds .....   30  
31 Paid-in or capital surplus, or land, building or equipment fund ...   31  
32 Retained earnings, endowment, accumulated income, or other funds   32  
33 Total net assets or fund balances ........... 475,275,221 33 458,990,621
34 Total liabilities and net assets/fund balances ........ 558,346,417 34 558,309,675
Form 990 (2015)
Form 990 (2015)
Page 12
Part XI
Reconcilliation of Net Assets
Check if Schedule O contains a response or note to any line in this Part XI ..............
1
Total revenue (must equal Part VIII, column (A), line 12) ............
1
84,738,790
2
Total expenses (must equal Part IX, column (A), line 25) ............
2
99,336,161
3
Revenue less expenses. Subtract line 2 from line 1 ..............
3
-14,597,371
4
Net assets or fund balances at beginning of year (must equal Part X, line 33, column (A)) ..
4
475,275,221
5
Net unrealized gains (losses) on investments ...............
5
13,059,794
6
Donated services and use of facilities .................
6
0
7
Investment expenses .....................
7
0
8
Prior period adjustments .....................
8
0
9
Other changes in net assets or fund balances (explain in Schedule O) ........
9
-14,747,023
10
Net assets or fund balances at end of year. Combine lines 3 through 9 (must equal Part X, line 33, column (B))
10
458,990,621
Part XII
Financial Statements and Reporting
Check if Schedule O contains a response or note to any line in this Part XII .............
Yes
No
1
Accounting method used to prepare the Form 990:  
If the organization changed its method of accounting from a prior year or checked "Other," explain in
Schedule O.
2a
Were the organization’s financial statements compiled or reviewed by an independent accountant?
2a
 
No
If ‘Yes,’ check a box below to indicate whether the financial statements for the year were compiled or reviewed on a separate basis, consolidated basis, or both:
b
Were the organization’s financial statements audited by an independent accountant?
2b
Yes
 
If ‘Yes,’ check a box below to indicate whether the financial statements for the year were audited on a separate basis, consolidated basis, or both:
c
If "Yes," to line 2a or 2b, does the organization have a committee that assumes responsibility for oversight of the audit, review, or compilation of its financial statements and selection of an independent accountant?
2c
Yes
 
If the organization changed either its oversight process or selection process during the tax year, explain in Schedule O.
3a
As a result of a federal award, was the organization required to undergo an audit or audits as set forth in the Single Audit Act and OMB Circular A-133?
3a
 
No
b
If "Yes," did the organization undergo the required audit or audits? If the organization did not undergo the required audit or audits, explain why in Schedule O and describe any steps taken to undergo such audits.
3b
 
 
Form 990 (2015)
Form 990 (2015)
Additional Data


Software ID: 15000352
Software Version: v1.00
Form 990, Special Condition Description:
Special Condition Description
SCHEDULE A
(Form 990 or 990EZ)

Department of the Treasury
Internal Revenue Service
Public Charity Status and Public Support
Complete if the organization is a section 501(c)(3) organization or a section 4947(a)(1) nonexempt charitable trust.
right arrow Attach to Form 990 or Form 990-EZ.
right arrow Information about Schedule A (Form 990 or 990-EZ) and its instructions is at www.irs.gov/form990.
OMB No. 1545-0047
2015
Open to Public
Inspection
Name of the organization
BOSTON SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA INC
 
Employer identification number

04-2103550
Part I
Reason for Public Charity Status (All organizations must complete this part.) See instructions.
The organization is not a private foundation because it is: (For lines 1 through 11, check only one box.)
1
2
3
4


5
6
7
8
9
10
11
a
b
c
d
e
f
Enter the number of supported organizations ..............  

g
Provide the following information about the supported organization(s).
(i)Name of supported organization (ii) EIN (iii) Type of organization (described on lines 1- 9 above (see instructions)) (iv) Is the organization listed in your governing document? (v) Amount of monetary support (see instructions) (vi) Amount of other support (see instructions)
Yes No
Total      

For Paperwork Reduction Act Notice, see the Instructions for
Form 990 or 990-EZ.
Cat. No. 11285F
Schedule A (Form 990 or 990-EZ) 2015

Schedule A (Form 990 or 990-EZ) 2015
Page 2
Part II
Support Schedule for Organizations Described in Sections 170(b)(1)(A)(iv) and 170(b)(1)(A)(vi)
(Complete only if you checked the box on line 5, 7, or 8 of Part I or if the organization failed to qualify under Part III. If the organization fails to qualify under the tests listed below, please complete Part III.)
Section A. Public Support
Calendar year (or fiscal year beginning in) right arrow (a) 2011 (b) 2012 (c) 2013 (d) 2014 (e) 2015 (f) Total
1 Gifts, grants, contributions, and membership fees received. (Do not include any unusual grants.) .... 34,676,732 35,806,641 29,175,439 41,549,636 32,924,905 174,133,353
2 Tax revenues levied for the organization's benefit and either paid to or expended on its behalf....... 0 0 0 0   0
3 The value of services or facilities furnished by a governmental unit to the organization without charge.. 0 0 0 0   0
4 Total. Add lines 1 through 3 34,676,732 35,806,641 29,175,439 41,549,636 32,924,905 174,133,353
5 The portion of total contributions by each person (other than a governmental unit or publicly supported organization) included on line 1 that exceeds 2% of the amount shown on line 11, column (f).. 12,622,957
6 Public support. Subtract line 5 from line 4. 161,510,396
Section B. Total Support
Calendar year (or fiscal year beginning in) right arrow (a) 2011 (b) 2012 (c) 2013 (d) 2014 (e) 2015 (f) Total
7 Amounts from line 4.. 34,676,732 35,806,641 29,175,439 41,549,636 32,924,905 174,133,353
8 Gross income from interest, dividends, payments received on securities loans, rents, royalties and income from similar sources... 2,563,448 3,046,527 4,407,284 4,575,437 4,818,637 19,411,333
9 Net income from unrelated business activities, whether or not the business is regularly carried on..   199,946 595,756 1,043,977 590,247 2,429,926
10 Other income. Do not include gain or loss from the sale of capital assets (Explain in Part VI.).. 0 0 0 0 0 0
11 Total support. Add lines 7 through 10. 195,974,612
12
12
193,362,892
13
First five years. If the Form 990 is for the organization's first, second, third, fourth, or fifth tax year as a section 501(c)(3) organization, check this box and stop here........................................right arrow
Section C. Computation of Public Support Percentage
14
14
82.414 %
15
15
82.007 %
16a
b
17a
b
18
Private foundation. If the organization did not check a box on line 13, 16a, 16b, 17a, or 17b, check this box and see
instructions ..................................................... right arrow
Schedule A (Form 990 or 990-EZ) 2015

Schedule A (Form 990 or 990-EZ) 2015
Page 3
Part III
Support Schedule for Organizations Described in Section 509(a)(2)
(Complete only if you checked the box on line 9 of Part I or if the organization failed to qualify under Part II. If the organization fails to qualify under the tests listed below, please complete Part II.)
Section A. Public Support
Calendar year (or fiscal year beginning in) right arrow (a) 2011 (b) 2012 (c) 2013 (d) 2014 (e) 2015 (f) Total
1 Gifts, grants, contributions, and membership fees received. (Do not include any "unusual grants.") .            
2 Gross receipts from admissions, merchandise sold or services performed, or facilities furnished in any activity that is related to the organization's tax-exempt purpose......            
3 Gross receipts from activities that are not an unrelated trade or business under section 513...            
4 Tax revenues levied for the organization's benefit and either paid to or expended on its behalf...            
5 The value of services or facilities furnished by a governmental unit to the organization without charge..            
6 Total. Add lines 1 through 5.            
7a Amounts included on lines 1, 2, and 3 received from disqualified persons...            
b Amounts included on lines 2 and 3 received from other than disqualified persons that exceed the greater of $5,000 or 1% of the amount on line 13 for the year.            
c Add lines 7a and 7b..            
8 Public support. (Subtract line 7c from line 6.)  
Section B. Total Support
Calendar year (or fiscal year beginning in) right arrow (a) 2011 (b) 2012 (c) 2013 (d) 2014 (e) 2015 (f) Total
9 Amounts from line 6...            
10a Gross income from interest, dividends, payments received on securities loans, rents, royalties and income from similar sources..            
b Unrelated business taxable income (less section 511 taxes) from businesses acquired after June 30, 1975.            
c Add lines 10a and 10b.            
11 Net income from unrelated business activities not included in line 10b, whether or not the business is regularly carried on.            
12 Other income. Do not include gain or loss from the sale of capital assets (Explain in Part VI.) ..            
13 Total support. (Add lines 9, 10c, 11, and 12.)..            
14
Section C. Computation of Public Support Percentage
15
15
 
16
16
 
Section D. Computation of Investment Income Percentage
17
17
 
18
18
 
19a
b
20
Schedule A (Form 990 or 990-EZ) 2015

Schedule A (Form 990 or 990-EZ) 2015
Page 4
Part IV
Supporting Organizations
(Complete only if you checked a box on line 11 of Part I. If you checked 11a of Part I, complete Sections A and B. If you checked 11b of Part I, complete Sections A and C. If you checked 11c of Part I, complete Sections A, D, and E. If you checked 11d of Part I, complete Sections A and D, and complete Part V.)
Section A. All Supporting Organizations
Yes
No
1
Are all of the organization’s supported organizations listed by name in the organization’s governing documents?
If "No," describe in Part VI how the supported organizations are designated. If designated by class or purpose,
describe the designation. If historic and continuing relationship, explain.
1
 
 
2
Did the organization have any supported organization that does not have an IRS determination of status under section 509(a)(1) or (2)? If "Yes," explain in Part VI how the organization determined that the supported organization was described in section 509(a)(1) or (2).
2
 
 
3a
Did the organization have a supported organization described in section 501(c)(4), (5), or (6)? If "Yes," answer (b) and (c) below.
3a
 
 
b
Did the organization confirm that each supported organization qualified under section 501(c)(4), (5), or (6) and satisfied the public support tests under section 509(a)(2)? If "Yes," describe in Part VI when and how the organization made the determination.
3b
 
 
c
Did the organization ensure that all support to such organizations was used exclusively for section 170(c)(2)(B) purposes? If "Yes," explain in Part VI what controls the organization put in place to ensure such use.
3c
 
 
4a
Was any supported organization not organized in the United States ("foreign supported organization")? If “Yes” and if you checked 11a or 11b in Part I, answer (b) and (c) below.
4a
 
 
b
Did the organization have ultimate control and discretion in deciding whether to make grants to the foreign supported organization? If “Yes,” describe in Part VI how the organization had such control and discretion despite being controlled or supervised by or in connection with its supported organizations.
4b
 
 
c
Did the organization support any foreign supported organization that does not have an IRS determination under sections 501(c)(3) and 509(a)(1) or (2)? If “Yes,” explain in Part VI what controls the organization used to ensure that all support to the foreign supported organization was used exclusively for section 170(c)(2)(B) purposes.
4c
 
 
5a
Did the organization add, substitute, or remove any supported organizations during the tax year? If “Yes,” answer (b) and (c) below (if applicable). Also, provide detail in Part VI, including (i) the names and EIN numbers of the supported organizations added, substituted, or removed; (ii) the reasons for each such action; (iii) the authority under the organization's organizing document authorizing such action; and (iv) how the action was accomplished (such as by amendment to the organizing document).
5a
 
 
b
Type I or Type II only. Was any added or substituted supported organization part of a class already designated in the organization's organizing document?
5b
 
 
c
Substitutions only. Was the substitution the result of an event beyond the organization's control?
5c
 
 
6
Did the organization provide support (whether in the form of grants or the provision of services or facilities) to anyone other than (i) its supported organizations, (ii) individuals that are part of the charitable class benefited by one or more of its supported organizations, or (iii) other supporting organizations that also support or benefit one or more of the filing organization’s supported organizations? If “Yes,” provide detail in Part VI.
6
 
 
7
Did the organization provide a grant, loan, compensation, or other similar payment to a substantial contributor (defined in section 4958(c)(3)(C)), a family member of a substantial contributor, or a 35% controlled entity with regard to a substantial contributor? If “Yes,” complete Part I of Schedule L (Form 990 or 990-EZ) .
7
 
 
8
Did the organization make a loan to a disqualified person (as defined in section 4958) not described in line 7? If “Yes,” complete Part I of Schedule L (Form 990 or 990-EZ).
8
 
 
9a
Was the organization controlled directly or indirectly at any time during the tax year by one or more disqualified persons as defined in section 4946 (other than foundation managers and organizations described in section 509(a)(1) or (2))? If “Yes,” provide detail in Part VI.
9a
 
 
b
Did one or more disqualified persons (as defined in line 9a) hold a controlling interest in any entity in which the supporting organization had an interest? If “Yes,” provide detail in Part VI.
9b
 
 
c
Did a disqualified person (as defined in line 9a) have an ownership interest in, or derive any personal benefit from, assets in which the supporting organization also had an interest? If “Yes,” provide detail in Part VI.
9c
 
 
10a
Was the organization subject to the excess business holdings rules of section 4943 because of section 4943(f) (regarding certain Type II supporting organizations, and all Type III non-functionally integrated supporting organizations)? If “Yes,” answer line 10b below.
10a
 
 
b
Did the organization have any excess business holdings in the tax year? (Use Schedule C, Form 4720, to determine whether the organization had excess business holdings).
10b
 
 
Schedule A (Form 990 or 990-EZ) 2015

Schedule A (Form 990 or 990-EZ) 2015
Page 5
Part IV
Supporting Organizations (continued)
Yes
No
11
Has the organization accepted a gift or contribution from any of the following persons?
a
A person who directly or indirectly controls, either alone or together with persons described in (b) and (c) below, the governing body of a supported organization?
11a
 
 
b
A family member of a person described in (a) above?
11b
 
 
c
A 35% controlled entity of a person described in (a) or (b) above? If “Yes” to a, b, or c, provide detail in Part VI.
11c
 
 
Section B. Type I Supporting Organizations
Yes
No
1
Did the directors, trustees, or membership of one or more supported organizations have the power to regularly appoint or elect at least a majority of the organization’s directors or trustees at all times during the tax year? If “No,” describe in Part VI how the supported organization(s) effectively operated, supervised, or controlled the organization’s activities. If the organization had more than one supported organization, describe how the powers to appoint and/or remove directors or trustees were allocated among the supported organizations and what conditions or restrictions, if any, applied to such powers during the tax year.
1
 
 
2
Did the organization operate for the benefit of any supported organization other than the supported organization(s) that operated, supervised, or controlled the supporting organization? If “Yes,” explain in Part VI how providing such benefit carried out the purposes of the supported organization(s) that operated, supervised or controlled the supporting organization.
2
 
 
Section C. Type II Supporting Organizations
Yes
No
1
Were a majority of the organization’s directors or trustees during the tax year also a majority of the directors or trustees of each of the organization’s supported organization(s)? If “No,” describe in Part VI how control or management of the supporting organization was vested in the same persons that controlled or managed the supported organization(s).
1
 
 
Section D. All Type III Supporting Organizations
Yes
No
1
Did the organization provide to each of its supported organizations, by the last day of the fifth month of the organization’s tax year, (i) a written notice describing the type and amount of support provided during the prior tax year, (ii) a copy of the Form 990 that was most recently filed as of the date of notification, and (iii) copies of the organization’s governing documents in effect on the date of notification, to the extent not previously provided?
1
 
 
2
Were any of the organization’s officers, directors, or trustees either (i) appointed or elected by the supported organization(s) or (ii) serving on the governing body of a supported organization? If "No," explain in Part VI how the organization maintained a close and continuous working relationship with the supported organization(s).
2
 
 
3
By reason of the relationship described in (2), did the organization’s supported organizations have a significant voice in the organization’s investment policies and in directing the use of the organization’s income or assets at all times during the tax year? If "Yes," describe in Part VI the role the organization’s supported organizations played in this regard.
3
 
 
Section E. Type III Functionally-Integrated Supporting Organizations
1
Check the box next to the method that the organization used to satisfy the Integral Part Test during the year (see instructions):
a
b
c
2
Activities Test. Answer (a) and (b) below.
Yes
No
a
Did substantially all of the organization’s activities during the tax year directly further the exempt purposes of the supported organization(s) to which the organization was responsive? If "Yes," then in Part VI identify those supported organizations and explain how these activities directly furthered their exempt purposes, how the organization was responsive to those supported organizations, and how the organization determined that these activities constituted substantially all of its activities.
2a
 
 
b
Did the activities described in (a) constitute activities that, but for the organization’s involvement, one or more of the organization’s supported organization(s) would have been engaged in? If "Yes," explain in Part VI the reasons for the organization’s position that its supported organization(s) would have engaged in these activities but for the organization’s involvement.
2b
 
 
3
Parent of Supported Organizations. Answer (a) and (b) below.
a
Did the organization have the power to regularly appoint or elect a majority of the officers, directors, or trustees of each of the supported organizations? Provide details in Part VI.
3a
 
 
b
Did the organization exercise a substantial degree of direction over the policies, programs and activities of each of its supported organizations? If "Yes," describe in Part VI. the role played by the organization in this regard.
3b
 
 
Schedule A (Form 990 or 990-EZ) 2015

Schedule A (Form 990 or 990-EZ) 2015
Page 6
Part V
Type III Non-Functionally Integrated 509(a)(3) Supporting Organizations
1
Section A - Adjusted Net Income (A) Prior Year (B) Current Year
(optional)
1 Net short-term capital gain 1    
2 Recoveries of prior-year distributions 2    
3 Other gross income (see instructions) 3    
4 Add lines 1 through 3 4    
5 Depreciation and depletion 5    
6 Portion of operating expenses paid or incurred for production or collection of gross income or for management, conservation, or maintenance of property held for production of income (see instructions) 6    
7 Other expenses (see instructions) 7    
8 Adjusted Net Income (subtract lines 5, 6 and 7 from line 4) 8    

Section B - Minimum Asset Amount (A) Prior Year (B) Current Year
(optional)
1 Aggregate fair market value of all non-exempt-use assets (see instructions for short tax year or assets held for part of year): 1
a Average monthly value of securities 1a    
b Average monthly cash balances 1b    
c Fair market value of other non-exempt-use assets 1c    
d Total (add lines 1a, 1b, and 1c) 1d    
e Discount claimed for blockage or other factors
(explain in detail in Part VI):  
2 Acquisition indebtedness applicable to non-exempt use assets 2    
3 Subtract line 2 from line 1d 3    
4 Cash deemed held for exempt use. Enter 1-1/2% of line 3 (for greater amount, see instructions). 4    
5 Net value of non-exempt-use assets (subtract line 4 from line 3) 5    
6 Multiply line 5 by .035 6    
7 Recoveries of prior-year distributions 7    
8 Minimum Asset Amount (add line 7 to line 6) 8    

Section C - Distributable Amount Current Year
1 Adjusted net income for prior year (from Section A, line 8, Column A) 1  
2 Enter 85% of line 1 2  
3 Minimum asset amount for prior year (from Section B, line 8, Column A) 3  
4 Enter greater of line 2 or line 3 4  
5 Income tax imposed in prior year 5  
6 Distributable Amount. Subtract line 5 from line 4, unless subject to emergency temporary reduction (see instructions) 6  
7
Schedule A (Form 990 or 990-EZ) 2015

Schedule A (Form 990 or 990-EZ) 2015
Page 7
Part V
Type III Non-Functionally Integrated 509(a)(3) Supporting Organizations (continued)
Section D - Distributions Current Year
1 Amounts paid to supported organizations to accomplish exempt purposes  
2 Amounts paid to perform activity that directly furthers exempt purposes of supported organizations, in
excess of income from activity		  
3 Administrative expenses paid to accomplish exempt purposes of supported organizations  
4 Amounts paid to acquire exempt-use assets  
5 Qualified set-aside amounts (prior IRS approval required)  
6 Other distributions (describe in Part VI). See instructions  
7Total annual distributions. Add lines 1 through 6.  
8 Distributions to attentive supported organizations to which the organization is responsive (provide
details in Part VI). See instructions		  
9 Distributable amount for 2015 from Section C, line 6  
10 Line 8 amount divided by Line 9 amount  

Section E - Distribution Allocations (see instructions) (i)
Excess Distributions 		(ii)
Underdistributions
Pre-2015 		(iii)
Distributable
Amount for 2015
1 Distributable amount for 2015 from Section C, line
6 		 
2 Underdistributions, if any, for years prior to 2015
(reasonable cause required--see instructions)		  
3 Excess distributions carryover, if any, to 2015:
a
b
c
d From 2013.......  
e From 2014.......  
fTotal of lines 3a through e  
g Applied to underdistributions of prior years  
h Applied to 2015 distributable amount  
i Carryover from 2010 not applied (see
instructions)
j Remainder. Subtract lines 3g, 3h, and 3i from 3f.  
4Distributions for 2015 from Section D, line 7:
$  
a Applied to underdistributions of prior years  
b Applied to 2015 distributable amount  
c Remainder. Subtract lines 4a and 4b from 4.  
5 Remaining underdistributions for years prior to
2015, if any. Subtract lines 3g and 4a from line 2
(if amount greater than zero, see instructions)		  
6 Remaining underdistributions for 2015. Subtract
lines 3h and 4b from line 1 (if amount greater than
zero, see instructions)		  
7 Excess distributions carryover to 2016. Add lines
3j and 4c.		  
8 Breakdown of line 7:
a
b
c Excess from 2013.......  
d From 2014.......  
e From 2015.......  
Schedule A (Form 990 or 990-EZ) (2015)

Schedule A (Form 990 or 990-EZ) 2015
Page 8
Part VI
Supplemental Information. Provide the explanations required by Part II, line 10; Part II, line 17a or 17b; Part III, line 12; Part IV, Section A, lines 1, 2, 3b, 3c, 4b, 4c, 5a, 6, 9a, 9b, 9c, 11a, 11b, and 11c; Part IV, Section B, lines 1 and 2; Part IV, Section C, line 1; Part IV, Section D, lines 2 and 3; Part IV, Section E, lines 1c, 2a, 2b, 3a and 3b; Part V, line 1; Part V, Section B, line 1e; Part V Section D, lines 5, 6, and 8; and Part V, Section E, lines 2, 5, and 6. Also complete this part for any additional information. (See instructions).
Facts And Circumstances Test
 
Return Reference Explanation
Schedule A (Form 990 or 990-EZ) 2015


Additional Data


Software ID: 15000352
Software Version: v1.00
Schedule B
(Form 990, 990-EZ,
or 990-PF)
Department of the Treasury
Internal Revenue Service
Schedule of Contributors
Arrow Bullet Attach to Form 990, 990-EZ, or 990-PF.
Arrow Bullet Information about Schedule B (Form 990, 990-EZ, or 990-PF) and its instructions is at www.irs.gov/form990.
OMB No. 1545-0047
2015
Name of the organization
BOSTON SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA INC
 
Employer identification number

04-2103550
Organization type (check one):
Filers of:
Section:
Form 990 or 990-EZ





Form 990-PF




Check if your organization is covered by the General Rule or a Special Rule.  
Note. Only a section 501(c)(7), (8), or (10) organization can check boxes for both the General Rule and a Special Rule. See instructions.
General Rule
Special Rules
......... Arrow Bullet $  
Caution. An organization that is not covered by the General Rule and/or the Special Rules does not file Schedule B (Form 990,
990-EZ, or 990-PF), but it must answer “No” on Part IV, line 2, of its Form 990; or check the box on line H of its
Form 990-EZ or on its Form 990PF, Part I, line 2, to certify that it does not meet the filing requirements of Schedule B (Form 990,
990-EZ, or 990-PF).
For Paperwork Reduction Act Notice, see the Instructions
for Form 990, 990-EZ, or 990-PF.
Cat. No. 30613XSchedule B (Form 990, 990-EZ, or 990-PF) (2015)
Schedule B (Form 990, 990-EZ, or 990-PF) (2015) Page 2
Name of organization
BOSTON SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA INC
  		Employer identification number
04-2103550
Part I
Contributors (see instructions). Use duplicate copies of Part I if additional space is needed.
(a)
No.		 (b)
Name, address, and ZIP + 4		 (c)
Total contributions		 (d)
Type of contribution
RESTRICTED
 
 

   
 
 
  ,    

$ RESTRICTED


(Complete Part II for noncash contributions.)
(a)
No.		 (b)
Name, address, and ZIP + 4		 (c)
Total contributions		 (d)
Type of contribution
 
 
 

   
 
 

$  


(Complete Part II for noncash contributions.)
(a)
No.		 (b)
Name, address, and ZIP + 4		 (c)
Total contributions		 (d)
Type of contribution
 
 
 

   
 
 

$  


(Complete Part II for noncash contributions.)
(a)
No.		 (b)
Name, address, and ZIP + 4		 (c)
Total contributions		 (d)
Type of contribution
 
 
 

   
 
 

$  


(Complete Part II for noncash contributions.)
(a)
No.		 (b)
Name, address, and ZIP + 4		 (c)
Total contributions		 (d)
Type of contribution
 
 
 

   
 
 

$  


(Complete Part II for noncash contributions.)
(a)
No.		 (b)
Name, address, and ZIP + 4		 (c)
Total contributions		 (d)
Type of contribution
 
 
 

   
 
 

$  


(Complete Part II for noncash contributions.)
Schedule B (Form 990, 990-EZ, or 990-PF) (2015)
Schedule B (Form 990, 990-EZ, or 990-PF) (2015)
Page 3
Name of organization
BOSTON SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA INC
  		Employer identification number

04-2103550
Part II
Noncash Property (see instructions). Use duplicate copies of Part II if additional space is needed.
(a)
No.from Part I		 (b)
Description of noncash property given		 (c)
FMV (or estimate)
(see instructions) 		(d)
Date received
 
$    
(a)
No.from Part I		 (b)
Description of noncash property given		 (c)
FMV (or estimate)
(see instructions) 		(d)
Date received
 
$    
(a)
No.from Part I		 (b)
Description of noncash property given		 (c)
FMV (or estimate)
(see instructions) 		(d)
Date received
 
$    
(a)
No.from Part I		 (b)
Description of noncash property given		 (c)
FMV (or estimate)
(see instructions) 		(d)
Date received
 
$    
(a)
No.from Part I		 (b)
Description of noncash property given		 (c)
FMV (or estimate)
(see instructions) 		(d)
Date received
 
$    
(a)
No.from Part I		 (b)
Description of noncash property given		 (c)
FMV (or estimate)
(see instructions) 		(d)
Date received
 
$    
Schedule B (Form 990, 990-EZ, or 990-PF) (2015)
Schedule B (Form 990, 990-EZ, or 990-PF) (2015)
Page 4
Name of organization
BOSTON SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA INC
  		Employer identification number

04-2103550
Part III
Exclusively religious, charitable, etc., contributions to organizations described in section 501(c)(7), (8), or (10) that total more than $1,000 for the year from any one contributor. Complete columns (a) through (e) and the following line entry. For organizations completing Part III, enter the total of exclusively religious, charitable, etc., contributions of $1,000 or less for the year. (Enter this information once. See instructions.) Arrow Bullet$  
Use duplicate copies of Part III if additional space is needed.
(a)
No.from Part I		 (b) Purpose of gift (c) Use of gift (d) Description of how gift is held
 
(e) Transfer of gift
Transferee's name, address, and ZIP 4 Relationship of transferor to transferee
 
 
     
 
(a)
No.from Part I		 (b) Purpose of gift (c) Use of gift (d) Description of how gift is held
 
(e) Transfer of gift
Transferee's name, address, and ZIP 4 Relationship of transferor to transferee
 
 
     
 
(a)
No.from Part I		 (b) Purpose of gift (c) Use of gift (d) Description of how gift is held
 
(e) Transfer of gift
Transferee's name, address, and ZIP 4 Relationship of transferor to transferee
 
 
     
 
(a)
No.from Part I		 (b) Purpose of gift (c) Use of gift (d) Description of how gift is held
 
(e) Transfer of gift
Transferee's name, address, and ZIP 4 Relationship of transferor to transferee
 
 
     
 
Schedule B (Form 990, 990-EZ, or 990-PF) (2015)

Additional Data


Software ID: 15000352
Software Version: v1.00
SCHEDULE C
(Form 990 or 990-EZ)

Department of the Treasury
Internal Revenue Service
Political Campaign and Lobbying Activities

For Organizations Exempt From Income Tax Under section 501(c) and section 527
SchCMd Bullet Complete if the organization is described below. SchCMd Bullet Attach to Form 990 or Form 990-EZ.
SchCMd BulletInformation about Schedule C (Form 990 or 990-EZ) and its instructions is at www.irs.gov/form990.
OMB No. 1545-0047
2015
Open to Public
Inspection
If the organization answered "Yes" on Form 990, Part IV, Line 3, or Form 990-EZ, Part V, line 46 (Political Campaign Activities), then
Round Bullet Section 501(c)(3) organizations: Complete Parts I-A and B. Do not complete Part I-C.
Round Bullet Section 501(c) (other than section 501(c)(3)) organizations: Complete Parts I-A and C below. Do not complete Part I-B.
Round Bullet Section 527 organizations: Complete Part I-A only.
If the organization answered "Yes" on Form 990, Part IV, Line 4, or Form 990-EZ, Part VI, line 47 (Lobbying Activities), then
Round Bullet Section 501(c)(3) organizations that have filed Form 5768 (election under section 501(h)): Complete Part II-A. Do not complete Part II-B.
Round Bullet Section 501(c)(3) organizations that have NOT filed Form 5768 (election under section 501(h)): Complete Part II-B. Do not complete Part II-A.
If the organization answered "Yes" on Form 990, Part IV, Line 5 (Proxy Tax) (see separate instructions) or Form 990-EZ, Part V, line 35c (Proxy Tax) (see separate instructions), then
Round Bullet Section 501(c)(4), (5), or (6) organizations: Complete Part III.
Name of the organization
BOSTON SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA INC
 
Employer identification number

04-2103550
Part I-A
Complete if the organization is exempt under section 501(c) or is a section 527 organization.

1
Provide a description of the organization’s direct and indirect political campaign activities in Part IV.
2
Political expenditures ......................................................................................................................SchCMd Bullet
$  
3
Volunteer hours .............................................................................................................................
 

Part I-B
Complete if the organization is exempt under section 501(c)(3).
1
Enter the amount of any excise tax incurred by the organization under section 4955 ................................SchCMd Bullet
$  
2
Enter the amount of any excise tax incurred by organization managers under section 4955 .......................SchCMd Bullet
$  
3
If the organization incurred a section 4955 tax, did it file Form 4720 for this year? .........................................
4a
Was a correction made? ......................................................................................................................
b
If "Yes," describe in Part IV.
Part I-C
Complete if the organization is exempt under section 501(c), except section 501(c)(3).
1
Enter the amount directly expended by the filing organization for section 527 exempt function activities ..... SchCMd Bullet
$  
2
Enter the amount of the filing organization's funds contributed to other organizations for section 527 exempt function activities ............................................................................................................................SchCMd Bullet

$  
3
Total exempt function expenditures. Add lines 1 and 2. Enter here and on Form 1120-POL, line 17b...........SchCMd Bullet

$  
4
Did the filing organization file Form 1120-POL for this year? ...................................................................
5
Enter the names, addresses and employer identification number (EIN) of all section 527 political organizations to which the filing
organization made payments. For each organization listed, enter the amount paid from the filing organization’s funds. Also enter the amount of political contributions received that were promptly and directly delivered to a separate political organization, such as a separate segregated fund or a political action committee (PAC). If additional space is needed, provide information in Part IV.
(a) Name (b) Address (c) EIN (d) Amount paid from filing organization's funds. If none, enter -0-. (e) Amount of political contributions received and promptly and directly delivered to a separate political organization. If none, enter -0-.
1
2
3
4
5
6
For Paperwork Reduction Act Notice, see the instructions for Form 990 or 990-EZ.
Cat. No. 50084S
Schedule C (Form 990 or 990-EZ) 2015

Schedule C (Form 990 or 990-EZ) 2015
Page 2
Part II-A
Complete if the organization is exempt under section 501(c)(3) and filed Form 5768 (election under section 501(h)).
A Check SchCMd Bulletexpenses, and share of excess lobbying expenditures).
B Check SchCMd Bullet
Limits on Lobbying Expenditures
(The term "expenditures" means amounts paid or incurred.) 		(a) Filing
organization's
totals 		(b) Affiliated group totals
1a Total lobbying expenditures to influence public opinion (grass roots lobbying) ...............................................    
b Total lobbying expenditures to influence a legislative body (direct lobbying) ...........................................    
c Total lobbying expenditures (add lines 1a and 1b) .......................................................................    
d Other exempt purpose expenditures .........................................................................................    
e Total exempt purpose expenditures (add lines 1c and 1d) ....................................................................    
f Lobbying nontaxable amount. Enter the amount from the following table in both
columns.		    
If the amount on line 1e, column (a) or (b) is:The lobbying nontaxable amount is:
Not over $500,00020% of the amount on line 1e.
Over $500,000 but not over $1,000,000$100,000 plus 15% of the excess over $500,000.
Over $1,000,000 but not over $1,500,000$175,000 plus 10% of the excess over $1,000,000.
Over $1,500,000 but not over $17,000,000$225,000 plus 5% of the excess over $1,500,000.
Over $17,000,000$1,000,000.
g Grassroots nontaxable amount (enter 25% of line 1f) ..........................................................................    
h Subtract line 1g from line 1a. If zero or less, enter -0-. ..........................................................................    
i Subtract line 1f from line 1c. If zero or less, enter -0-. ...........................................................................    
j If there is an amount other than zero on either line 1h or line 1i, did the organization file Form 4720 reporting
section 4911 tax for this year? ..............................................................................................................

4-Year Averaging Period Under section 501(h)
(Some organizations that made a section 501(h) election do not have to complete all of the five
columns below. See the separate instructions for lines 2a through 2f.)
Lobbying Expenditures During 4-Year Averaging Period
Calendar year (or fiscal year
beginning in) 		(a) 2012 (b) 2013 (c) 2014 (d) 2015 (e) Total
2a Lobbying nontaxable amount          
b Lobbying ceiling amount
(150% of line 2a, column(e)) 		 
c Total lobbying expenditures          
d Grassroots nontaxable amount          
e Grassroots ceiling amount
(150% of line 2d, column (e))		  
f Grassroots lobbying expenditures          
Schedule C (Form 990 or 990-EZ) 2015


Schedule C (Form 990 or 990-EZ) 2015
Page 3
Part II-B
Complete if the organization is exempt under section 501(c)(3) and has NOT filed Form 5768 (election under section 501(h)).
For each "Yes" response on lines 1a through 1i below, provide in Part IV a detailed description of the lobbying activity.
(a)
No
Yes
(b)
Amount
1
During the year, did the filing organization attempt to influence foreign, national, state or local legislation, including any attempt to influence public opinion on a legislative matter or referendum, through the use of:
a
Volunteers? ...........................................................................................................
 
No
b
Paid staff or management (include compensation in expenses reported on lines 1c through 1i)? ........
Yes
 
c
Media advertisements? ...................................................................................................
 
No
 
d
Mailings to members, legislators, or the public? .............................................................................
 
No
 
e
Publications, or published or broadcast statements? ...........................................................
 
No
 
f
Grants to other organizations for lobbying purposes? ..........................................................
 
No
 
g
Direct contact with legislators, their staffs, government officials, or a legislative body? .......................
Yes
 
56,357
h
Rallies, demonstrations, seminars, conventions, speeches, lectures, or any similar means? ..................
 
No
 
i
Other activities? ...................................................................................................................
 
No
 
j
Total. Add lines 1c through 1i ....................................................................................................
56,357
2a
Did the activities in line 1 cause the organization to be not described in section 501(c)(3)? .....
 
No
b
If "Yes," enter the amount of any tax incurred under section 4912 ...........................................
 
c
If "Yes," enter the amount of any tax incurred by organization managers under section 4912 ...................
 
d
If the filing organization incurred a section 4912 tax, did it file Form 4720 for this year? ........................
 
 
Part III-A
Complete if the organization is exempt under section 501(c)(4), section 501(c)(5), or section 501(c)(6).
Yes
No
1
Were substantially all (90% or more) dues received nondeductible by members? ...............................................
1
 
 
2
Did the organization make only in-house lobbying expenditures of $2,000 or less? ............................................
2
 
 
3
Did the organization agree to carry over lobbying and political expenditures from the prior year? .................................
3
 
 
Part III-B
Complete if the organization is exempt under section 501(c)(4), section 501(c)(5), or section 501(c)(6) and if either (a) BOTH Part III-A, lines 1 and 2, are answered "No" OR (b) Part III-A, line 3, is answered “Yes."
1
Dues, assessments and similar amounts from members ......................................................................
1
 
2
Section 162(e) nondeductible lobbying and political expenditures (do not include amounts of political expenses for which the section 527(f) tax was paid).
a
Current year .............................................................................................................................
2a
 
b
Carryover from last year ............................................................................................................
2b
 
c
Total ...........................................................................................................................................
2c
 
3
Aggregate amount reported in section 6033(e)(1)(A) notices of nondeductible section 162(e) dues .
3
 
4
If notices were sent and the amount on line 2c exceeds the amount on line 3, what portion of the excess does the organization agree to carryover to the reasonable estimate of nondeductible lobbying and political expenditure next year? ......................................................................................................................
4
 
5
Taxable amount of lobbying and political expenditures (see instructions) .........................................
5
 
Part IV
Supplemental Information
Provide the descriptions required for Part l-A, line 1; Part l-B, line 4; Part l-C, line 5; Part II-A (affiliated group list); Part II-A, lines 1 and 2 (see instructions), and Part ll-B, line 1. Also, complete this part for any additional information.
Return Reference Explanation
Schedule C, Part II-B, Line 1 The lobbying activities of the BSO address issues such as state funding and proposed legislation related to historic preservation, tourism, transportation, and education all in the context of the arts and not-for-profit organizations. A small allocation of the salary of one employee who engages in lobbying activities on the issues noted above is included in the amount reported.
Schedule C (Form 990 or 990EZ) 2015


Additional Data


Software ID: 15000352
Software Version: v1.00

SCHEDULE D
(Form 990)
Department of the Treasury
Internal Revenue Service
Supplemental Financial Statements
SchDMd Bullet Complete if the organization answered "Yes," on Form 990,
Part IV, line 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11a, 11b, 11c, 11d, 11e, 11f, 12a, or 12b.
SchDMd Bullet Attach to Form 990.
Information about Schedule D (Form 990) and its instructions is at www.irs.gov/form990.
OMB No. 1545-0047
2015
Open to Public Inspection
Name of the organization
BOSTON SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA INC
 
Employer identification number

04-2103550
Part I
Organizations Maintaining Donor Advised Funds or Other Similar Funds or Accounts. Complete if the organization answered "Yes" on Form 990, Part IV, line 6.
(a) Donor advised funds (b) Funds and other accounts
1 Total number at end of year ....    
2 Aggregate value of contributions to (during year)    
3 Aggregate value of grants from (during year)    
4 Aggregate value at end of year ....    
5
Did the organization inform all donors and donor advisors in writing that the assets held in donor advised
funds are the organization's property, subject to the organization's exclusive legal control? ...........
6
Did the organization inform all grantees, donors, and donor advisors in writing that grant funds can be
used only for charitable purposes and not for the benefit of the donor or donor advisor, or for any other purpose conferring impermissible private benefit? ............................
Part II
Conservation Easements. Complete if the organization answered "Yes" on Form 990, Part IV, line 7.
1
Purpose(s) of conservation easements held by the organization (check all that apply).
2
Complete lines 2a through 2d if the organization held a qualified conservation contribution in the form of a conservation easement on the last day of the tax year.
Held at the End of the Year
a Total number of conservation easements ...................... 2a  
b Total acreage restricted by conservation easements .................... 2b  
c Number of conservation easements on a certified historic structure included in (a) ..... 2c  
d Number of conservation easements included in (c) acquired after 8/17/06, and not on a historic structure listed in the National Register ... 2d  
3
Number of conservation easements modified, transferred, released, extinguished, or terminated by the organization during the
tax year SchDMd Bullet  
4
Number of states where property subject to conservation easement is located SchDMd Bullet  
5
Does the organization have a written policy regarding the periodic monitoring, inspection, handling of violations, and enforcement of the conservation easements it holds? ............
6
Staff and volunteer hours devoted to monitoring, inspecting, handling of violations, and enforcing conservation easements during the year
SchDMd Bullet  
7
Amount of expenses incurred in monitoring, inspecting, handling of violations, and enforcing conservation easements during the year
SchDMd Bullet $  
8
Does each conservation easement reported on line 2(d) above satisfy the requirements of section 170(h)(4)(B)(i) and section 170(h)(4)(B)(ii)? .............................
9
In Part XIII, describe how the organization reports conservation easements in its revenue and expense statement, and
balance sheet, and include, if applicable, the text of the footnote to the organization’s financial statements that describes
the organization’s accounting for conservation easements.
Part III
Organizations Maintaining Collections of Art, Historical Treasures, or Other Similar Assets.
Complete if the organization answered "Yes" on Form 990, Part IV, line 8.
1a
If the organization elected, as permitted under SFAS 116 (ASC 958), not to report in its revenue statement and balance sheet works of art, historical treasures, or other similar assets held for public exhibition, education, or research in furtherance of public service, provide, in Part XIII, the text of the footnote to its financial statements that describes these items.
b
If the organization elected, as permitted under SFAS 116 (ASC 958), to report in its revenue statement and balance sheet works of art, historical treasures, or other similar assets held for public exhibition, education, or research in furtherance of public service, provide the following amounts relating to these items:
(i)
Revenue included on Form 990, Part VIII, line 1 .........................SchDMd Bullet $  
(ii)
Assets included in Form 990, Part X ...............................SchDMd Bullet $  
2
If the organization received or held works of art, historical treasures, or other similar assets for financial gain, provide the
following amounts required to be reported under SFAS 116 (ASC 958) relating to these items:
a
Revenue included on Form 990, Part VIII, line 1 ..........................SchDMd Bullet $  
b
Assets included in Form 990, Part X ...............................SchDMd Bullet $  
For Paperwork Reduction Act Notice, see the Instructions for Form 990.
Cat. No. 52283D
Schedule D (Form 990) 2015

Schedule D (Form 990) 2015
Page 2
Part III
Organizations Maintaining Collections of Art, Historical Treasures, or Other Similar Assets (continued)
3
Using the organization’s acquisition, accession, and other records, check any of the following that are a significant use of its collection items (check all that apply):
a
d
b
e
 
c
4
Provide a description of the organization’s collections and explain how they further the organization’s exempt purpose in
Part XIII.
5
During the year, did the organization solicit or receive donations of art, historical treasures or other similar
assets to be sold to raise funds rather than to be maintained as part of the organization’s collection?...
Part IV
Escrow and Custodial Arrangements. Complete if the organization answered "Yes" on Form 990, Part IV, line 9, or reported an amount on Form 990, Part X, line 21.
1a
Is the organization an agent, trustee, custodian or other intermediary for contributions or other assets not
included on Form 990, Part X? ....................................
b If "Yes," explain the arrangement in Part XIII and complete the following table: Amount
c Beginning balance ............................. 1c  
d Additions during the year ............................ 1d  
e Distributions during the year .......................... 1e  
f Ending balance ................................ 1f  
2a
Did the organization include an amount on Form 990, Part X, line 21, for escrow or custodial account liability?
b
If "Yes," explain the arrangement in Part XIII. Check here if the explanation has been provided in Part XIII ........
Part V
Endowment Funds. Complete if the organization answered "Yes" on Form 990, Part IV, line 10.
(a)Current year (b)Prior year (c)Two years back (d)Three years back (e)Four years back
1a Beginning of year balance .... 450,319,000 474,899,000 421,650,000 379,963,000 387,370,000
b Contributions ... 7,724,000 8,892,000 18,200,000 21,780,000 8,067,000
c Net investment earnings, gains, and losses 18,448,000 -13,587,000 59,358,000 36,543,000 7,551,000
d Grants or scholarships ... 0 0 0 0 0
e Other expenditures for facilities
and programs ... 		30,112,000 19,885,000 24,309,000 16,636,000 23,025,000
f Administrative expenses .... 0 0 0 0 0
g End of year balance ...... 446,379,000 450,319,000 474,899,000 421,650,000 379,963,000
2
Provide the estimated percentage of the current year end balance (line 1g, column (a)) held as:
a
Board designated or quasi-endowment SchDMd Bullet14.32 %
b
Permanent endowment SchDMd Bullet45.13 %
c
Temporarily restricted endowment SchDMd Bullet40.55 %
The percentages on lines 2a, 2b, and 2c should equal 100%.
3a
Are there endowment funds not in the possession of the organization that are held and administered for the
organization by:

Yes
No
(i) unrelated organizations .................
3a(i)
Yes
 
(ii) related organizations .................
3a(ii)
Yes
 
b
If "Yes" on 3a(ii), are the related organizations listed as required on Schedule R? .........
3b
Yes
 
4
Describe in Part XIII the intended uses of the organization's endowment funds.
Part VI
Land, Buildings, and Equipment.
Complete if the organization answered 'Yes' on Form 990, Part IV, line 11a. See Form 990, Part X, line 10.
Description of property (a) Cost or other basis
(investment) 		(b)Cost or other basis (other) (c) Accumulated depreciation (d) Book value
1a Land ... 0 6,749,799 6,749,799
b Buildings 0 83,430,093 51,334,353 32,095,740
c Leasehold improvements 0 0 0 0
d Equipment ... 0 35,343,982 24,704,682 10,639,300
e Other ... 0 9,237,285 5,137,705 4,099,580
Total. Add lines 1a through 1e. (Column (d) must equal Form 990, Part X, column (B), line 10(c).)..SchDMdBullet 53,584,419
Schedule D (Form 990) 2015

Schedule D (Form 990) 2015
Page 3
Part VII
Investments—Other Securities. Complete if the organization answered 'Yes' on Form 990, Part IV, line 11b. See Form 990, Part X, line 12.
(a) Description of security or category
(including name of security)		 (b)Book value (c)Method of valuation:
Cost or end-of-year market value
(1)Financial derivatives    
(2)Closely-held equity interests    
(3)Other
(A) Marketable Alternatives (equity LPs) 		285,969,382 F

(B) Illiquid Equities (private equity LPs) 		18,410,474 F

(C) Real Assets 		17,127,300 F

(D) Real Estate 		12,820,884 F

(E) Commingled Funds 		8,349,198 F

(F) Investment in 263 HA Limited Partnership 		8,145,374 F
(F)
(G)
(H)
Total. (Column (b) must equal Form 990, Part X, col. (B) line 12.)Small Bullet 350,822,612
Part VIII
Investments—Program Related. Complete if the organization answered 'Yes' on Form 990, Part IV, line 11c. See Form 990, Part X, line 13.
(a) Description of investment (b) Book value (c) Method of valuation:
Cost or end-of-year market value
(1)
(2)
(3)
(4)
(5)
(6)
(7)
(8)
(9)
Total. (Column (b) must equal Form 990, Part X, col.(B) line 13.)Small Bullet  
Part IX
Other Assets. Complete if the organization answered 'Yes' on Form 990, Part IV, line 11d. See Form 990, Part X, line 15.
(a) Description (b) Book value
(1) Assets Held by Others 26,978,099
(2) Assets of Split Interest Agreements 9,701,358
(2)
(3)
(4)
(5)
(6)
(7)
(8)
(9)
Total. (Column (b) must equal Form 990, Part X, col.(B) line 15.)...........Small Bullet 36,679,457
Part X
Other Liabilities. Complete if the organization answered 'Yes' on Form 990, Part IV, line 11e or 11f. See Form 990, Part X, line 25.
1.(a) Description of liability (b) Book value
(1) Federal income taxes  
Accrued Liability for Pension & Post Retirement 68,271,048
(2)
(3)
(4)
(5)
(6)
(7)
(8)
(9)
Total. (Column (b) must equal Form 990, Part X, col.(B) line 25.)Small Bullet 68,271,048
2. Liability for uncertain tax positions. In Part XIII, provide the text of the footnote to the organization's financial statements that reports the organization's liability for uncertain tax positions under FIN 48 (ASC 740). Check here if the text of the footnote has been provided in Part XIII
Schedule D (Form 990) 2015

Schedule D (Form 990) 2015
Page 4
Part XI Reconciliation of Revenue per Audited Financial Statements With Revenue per Return Complete if the organization answered 'Yes' on Form 990, Part IV, line 12a.
1 Total revenue, gains, and other support per audited financial statements ....... 1 98,697,399
2 Amounts included on line 1 but not on Form 990, Part VIII, line 12:
a Net unrealized gains (losses) on investments .... 2a 13,059,794
b Donated services and use of facilities ......... 2b 706,325
c Recoveries of prior year grants ........... 2c 0
d Other (Describe in Part XIII.) ............ 2d 1,359,597
e Add lines 2a through 2d ..................... 2e 15,125,716
3 Subtract line 2e from line 1.................. 3 83,571,683
4 Amounts included on Form 990, Part VIII, line 12, but not on line 1:
a Investment expenses not included on Form 990, Part VIII, line 7b . 4a 1,771,000
b Other (Describe in Part XIII.) ........... 4b -603,893
c Add lines 4a and 4b.................... 4c 1,167,107
5 Total revenue. Add lines 3 and 4c. (This must equal Form 990, Part I, line 12.) ...... 5 84,738,790
Part XII Reconciliation of Expenses per Audited Financial Statements With Expenses per Return. Complete if the organization answered 'Yes' on Form 990, Part IV, line 12a.
1 Total expenses and losses per audited financial statements ........... 1 98,875,379
2 Amounts included on line 1 but not on Form 990, Part IX, line 25:
a Donated services and use of facilities ......... 2a 706,325
b Prior year adjustments ............ 2b 0
c Other losses ................ 2c 0
d Other (Describe in Part XIII.) ............ 2d 603,893
e Add lines 2a through 2d.................... 2e 1,310,218
3 Subtract line 2e from line 1................... 3 97,565,161
4 Amounts included on Form 990, Part IX, line 25, but not on line 1:
a Investment expenses not included on Form 990, Part VIII, line 7b .. 4a 1,771,000
b Other (Describe in Part XIII.) ............ 4b 0
c Add lines 4a and 4b..................... 4c 1,771,000
5 Total expenses. Add lines 3 and 4c. (This must equal Form 990, Part I, line 18.) ...... 5 99,336,161

Part XIII
Supplemental Information
Provide the descriptions required for Part II, lines 3, 5, and 9; Part III, lines 1a and 4; Part lV, lines 1b and 2b;
Part V, line 4; Part X, line 2; Part XI, lines 2d and 4b; and Part XII, lines 2d and 4b. Also complete this part to provide any additional information.
Return Reference Explanation
Schedule D, Part V, Line 4 The purpose of the endowment is to provide enduring support for the mission of the Orchestra by releasing a substantial and reliable flow of funds to the operating budget. The income earned on the Orchestra's endowment assets may be used for general or donor-restricted purposes and is recorded in unrestricted net assets or temporarily restricted net assets, as appropriate.
Schedule D, Part VI, Line 1e Other includes land improvements and related depreciation and construction in progress.
Schedule D, Part VII, Line 3 The investment in 263 HA Limited Partnership is valued at net cost plus accumulated earnings reduced by distributions to the BSO.
Schedule D, Part X, Line 2 The Orchestra accounts for the effect of any uncertain tax positions based on a "more likely than not" threshold to the recognition of the tax positions being sustained based on the technical merits of the position under scrutiny by the applicable taxing authority. If a tax position or positions are deemed to result in uncertainties of those positions, the unrecognized tax benefit is estimated based on a "cumulative probability assessment" that aggregates the estimated tax liability for all uncertain tax positions. The Orchestra has identified its tax status as a tax exempt entity and its determinations relative to income that is considered related and unrelated as its only significant tax positions; however, the Orchestra has determined that such tax positions do not result in an uncertainty requiring recognition. The Orchestra is not currently under examination by any taxing jurisdiction. Its Federal and state income tax returns are generally open for examination for the past three years following the date filed by the appropriate tax authorities.
Schedule D, Part XI, Line 2d Change in value of split interest agreements.
Schedule D, Part XI, Line 4b Cost of goods sold.
Schedule D, Part XII, Line 2d Cost of goods sold.
Schedule D (Form 990) 2015


Additional Data


Software ID: 15000352
Software Version: v1.00




SCHEDULE F(Form 990)
Department of the Treasury
Internal Revenue Service
Statement of Activities Outside the United States
Right pointing arrow large image Complete if the organization answered "Yes" to Form 990,Part IV, line 14b, 15, or 16.Right pointing arrow large image Attach to Form 990. Right pointing arrow large image See separate instructions.Right pointing arrow large image Information about Schedule F (Form 990) and its instructions is at www.irs.gov/form990.
OMB No. 1545-0047
2015
Open to Public Inspection
Name of the organization
BOSTON SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA INC
 
Employer identification number

04-2103550
Part I
General Information on Activities Outside the United States. Complete if the organization answered "Yes" to Form 990, Part IV, line 14b.
1
For grantmakers.Does the organization maintain records to substantiate the amount of its grants and
other assistance, the grantees’ eligibility for the grants or assistance, and the selection criteria used
to award the grants or assistance? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
2
For grantmakers. Describe in Part V the organization’s procedures for monitoring the use of its grants and other assistance outside the United States.
3
Activites per Region. (The following Part I, line 3 table can be duplicated if additional space is needed.)
(a) Region (b) Number of offices in the region (c) Number of employees, agents, and independent contractors in region (d) Activities conducted in region (by type) (e.g., fundraising, program services, investments, grants to recipients located in the region) (e) If activity listed in (d) is a program service, describe specific type of
service(s) in region		 (f) Total expenditures
for and investments
in region
Central America and the Caribbean 0 0 Investments   78,729,839
Europe (including Iceland and Greenland) 0 0 Program Services Concert Tour 3,852,334
           
           
           
           
           
           
           
           
           
           
           
           
           
           
           
3a Sub-total .....      
b Total from continuation sheets to Part I ...      
c Totals (add lines 3a and 3b) 0 0 82,582,173
For Paperwork Reduction Act Notice, see the Instructions for Form 990.Cat. No. 50082W Schedule F (Form 990) 2015
Schedule F (Form 990) 2015
Page 2
Part II
Grants and Other Assistance to Organizations or Entities Outside the United States. Complete if the organization answered "Yes" to Form 990, Part IV, line 15, for any recipient who received more than $5,000. Part II can be duplicated if additional space is needed.
1 (a) Name of organization (b) IRS code section
and EIN (if applicable)		 (a)(c) Region (b)(d) Purpose of
grant 		(e) Amount of
cash grant 		(f) Manner of
cash
disbursement 		(g) Amount
of non-cash
assistance 		(h) Description
of non-cash
assistance 		(i) Method of
valuation
(book, FMV,
appraisal, other)
             
             
             
             
             
             
             
             
             
             
             
             
             
             
             
             
2 Enter total number of recipient organizations listed above that are recognized as charities by the foreign country, recognized as tax-exempt by the IRS, or for which the grantee or counsel has provided a section 501(c)(3) equivalency letter .......MediumBullet
 
3 Enter total number of other organizations or entities .......................MediumBullet
 
Schedule F (Form 990) 2015
Schedule F (Form 990) 2015Page 3
Part III
Grants and Other Assistance to Individuals Outside the United States. Complete if the organization answered "Yes" to Form 990, Part IV, line 16.
Part III can be duplicated if additional space is needed.
(a) Type of grant or assistance (b) Region (c) Number of recipients (d) Amount of
cash grant 		(e) Manner of cash
disbursement 		(f) Amount of
non-cash
assistance 		(g) Description
of non-cash
assistance 		(h) Method of
valuation
(book, FMV,
appraisal, other)
               
               
               
               
               
               
               
               
               
               
               
               
               
               
               
               
               
               
Schedule F (Form 990) 2015
Schedule F (Form 990) 2015
Page 4
Part IV
Foreign Forms
1 Was the organization a U.S. transferor of property to a foreign corporation during the tax year? If "Yes,"the organization may be required to file Form 926, Return by a U.S. Transferor of Property to a Foreign Corporation (see Instructions for Form 926). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
2 Did the organization have an interest in a foreign trust during the tax year? If "Yes," the organization may be required to separately file Form 3520, Annual Return to Report Transactions with Foreign Trusts and Receipt of Certain Foreign Gifts, and/or Form 3520-A, Annual Information Return of Foreign Trust With a U.S. Owner (see Instructions for Forms 3520 and 3520-A). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
3 Did the organization have an ownership interest in a foreign corporation during the tax year? If "Yes," the organization may be required to file Form 5471, Information Return of U.S. Persons with Respect to Certain Foreign Corporations. (see Instructions for Form 5471). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
4 Was the organization a direct or indirect shareholder of a passive foreign investment company or a qualified electing fund during the tax year? If “Yes,” the organization may be required to file Form 8621, Information Return by a Shareholder of a Passive Foreign Investment Company or Qualified Electing Fund. (see Instructions for Form 8621) .
5 Did the organization have an ownership interest in a foreign partnership during the tax year? If "Yes," the organization may be required to file Form 8865, Return of U.S. Persons with Respect to Certain Foreign Partnerships. (see Instructions for Form 8865). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
6 Did the organization have any operations in or related to any boycotting countries during the tax year? If "Yes," the organization may be required to separately file Form 5713, International Boycott Report (see Instructions for Form 5713).. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Schedule F (Form 990) 2015
Schedule F (Form 990) 2015
Page 5
Part V
Supplemental Information
Provide the information required by Part I, line 2 (monitoring of funds); Part I, line 3, column (f) (accounting method; amounts of investments vs. expenditures per region); Part II, line 1 (accounting method); Part III (accounting method); and Part III, column (c) (estimated number of recipients), as applicable. Also complete this part to provide any additional information (see instructions).
ReturnReference Explanation
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
Schedule F (Form 990) 2015
Additional Data


Software ID: 15000352
Software Version: v1.00



SCHEDULE G (Form 990 or 990-EZ)
Department of the Treasury
Internal Revenue Service
Supplemental Information Regarding
Fundraising or Gaming Activities
Complete if the organization answered "Yes" on Form 990, Part IV, lines 17, 18, or 19, or if the organization entered more than $15,000 on Form 990-EZ, line 6a. right arrowAttach to Form 990 or Form 990-EZ.
right arrowInformation about Schedule G (Form 990 or 990-EZ) and its instructions is at www.irs.gov/form990.
OMB No. 1545-0047
2015
Open to Public Inspection
Name of the organization
BOSTON SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA INC
 
Employer identification number

04-2103550
Part I
Fundraising Activities. Complete if the organization answered "Yes" on Form 990, Part IV, line 17.
Form 990-EZ filers are not required to complete this part.
1
Indicate whether the organization raised funds through any of the following activities. Check all that apply.
a e
b f
c g
d
2a
Did the organization have a written or oral agreement with any individual (including officers, directors, trustees
or key employees listed in Form 990, Part VII) or entity in connection with professional fundraising services?
b
If "Yes," list the ten highest paid individuals or entities (fundraisers) pursuant to agreements under which the fundraiser is
to be compensated at least $5,000 by the organization.


(i) Name and address of individual
or entity (fundraiser) 		(ii) Activity (iii) Did fundraiser have custody or control of contributions? (iv) Gross receipts
from activity 		(v) Amount paid to
(or retained by)
fundraiser listed in
col. (i) 		(vi) Amount paid to
(or retained by)
organization
Yes No
             
             
             
             
             
             
             
             
             
             
Total . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . right arrow      
3
List all states in which the organization is registered or licensed to solicit contributions or has been notified it is exempt from registration or licensing.
For Paperwork Reduction Act Notice, see the Instructions for Form 990 or 990-EZ.
Cat. No. 50083H
Schedule G (Form 990 or 990-EZ) 2015
Schedule G (Form 990 or 990-EZ) 2015
Page 2
Part II
Fundraising Events. Complete if the organization answered "Yes" on Form 990, Part IV, line 18, or reported more than $15,000 of fundraising event contributions and gross income on Form 990-EZ, lines 1 and 6b. List events with gross receipts greater than $5,000.




VerticalRevenue
(a) Event #1

Opening Gala
(event type) 		(b) Event #2

Corporate Event
(event type) 		(c) Other events

4
(total number) 		(d) Total events
(add col. (a) through col. (c))

1
Gross receipts . . . . .
1,389,851
1,135,740
1,063,169
3,588,760

2
Less: Contributions . . . .
1,294,843
1,050,170
960,996
3,306,009
3 Gross income (line 1 minus
line 2) . . . . . .
95,008
85,570
102,173
282,751



VerticalDirectExpenses
4 Cash prizes . . . . . 0 0 0 0
5 Noncash prizes . . . . 0 0 0 0
6 Rent/facility costs . . . . 0 0 0 0
7 Food and beverages . . . 66,795 80,636 168,148 315,579
8 Entertainment . . . . 21,566 119,355 57,860 198,781
9 Other direct expenses . . . 157,107 93,027 393,750 643,884
10 Direct expense summary. Add lines 4 through 9 in column (d) . . . . . . . . . . right arrow 1,158,244
11 Net income summary. Subtract line 10 from line 3, column (d). . . . . . . . . . right arrow -875,493
Part III
Gaming. Complete if the organization answered "Yes" on Form 990, Part IV, line 19, or reported more than $15,000 on Form 990-EZ, line 6a.
VerticalRevenue
(a) Bingo (b) Pull tabs/Instant
bingo/progressive bingo 		(c) Other gaming (d) Total gaming (add col.(a) through col.(c))

1
Gross revenue . . . . .
 
 
 
 
VerticalDirectExpenses

2
Cash prizes . . . . .
 
 
 
 

3
Noncash prizes . . . .
 
 
 
 

4
Rent/facility costs . . . .
 
 
 
 

5
Other direct expenses . . .
157,107
93,027
393,750
643,884


6

Volunteer labor . . . .
%
%
%


7
Direct expense summary. Add lines 2 through 5 in column (d) . . . . . . . . . . right arrow
 

8
Net gaming income summary. Subtract line 7 from line 1, column (d). . . . . . . . . right arrow
 

9
Enter the state(s) in which the organization conducts gaming activities:
a
Is the organization licensed to conduct gaming activities in each of these states? . . . . . . . .
b
If "No," explain:
 
10a
Were any of the organization's gaming licenses revoked, suspended or terminated during the tax year? . . .
b
If "Yes," explain:
 
Schedule G (Form 990 or 990-EZ) 2015
Schedule G (Form 990 or 990-EZ) 2015
Page 3
11
Does the organization conduct gaming activities with nonmembers? . . . . . . . . . . .
12
Is the organization a grantor, beneficiary or trustee of a trust or a member of a partnership or other entity
formed to administer charitable gaming? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
13
Indicate the percentage of gaming activity conducted in:
a
The organization's facility . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
13a
%
b
An outside facility . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
13b
%
14
Enter the name and address of the person who prepares the organization's gaming/special events books and records:
Name right arrow
Address right arrow
15a
Does the organization have a contract with a third party from whom the organization receives gaming
revenue? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
b
If "Yes," enter the amount of gaming revenue received by the organization right arrow $   and the
amount of gaming revenue retained by the third party right arrow $   .
c
If "Yes," enter name and address of the third party:
Name right arrow
Address right arrow
 
 
16
Gaming manager information:
Name right arrow
Gaming manager compensation right arrow $  
Description of services provided right arrow
 
17
Mandatory distributions:
a
Is the organization required under state law to make charitable distributions from the gaming proceeds to
retain the state gaming license? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
b
Enter the amount of distributions required under state law distributed to other exempt organizations or spent
in the organization's own exempt activities during the tax year right arrow$  
Part IV
Supplemental Information. Provide the explanations required by Part I, line 2b, columns (iii) and (v); and Part III, lines 9, 9b, 10b, 15b, 15c, 16, and 17b, as applicable. Also complete this part to provide any additional information (see instructions).
Return Reference Explanation
Schedule G (Form 990 or 990-EZ) 2015
Additional Data


Software ID: 15000352
Software Version: v1.00
Schedule J
(Form 990)
Department of the Treasury
Internal Revenue Service
Compensation Information
For certain Officers, Directors, Trustees, Key Employees, and Highest
Compensated Employees
SchJMediumBullet Complete if the organization answered "Yes" on Form 990, Part IV, line 23.
SchJMediumBullet Attach to Form 990.
SchJMediumBullet Information about Schedule J (Form 990) and its instructions is at www.irs.gov/form990.
OMB No. 1545-0047
2015
Open to Public Inspection
Name of the organization
BOSTON SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA INC
 
Employer identification number

04-2103550
Part I
Questions Regarding Compensation
Yes
No
1a
Check the appropiate box(es) if the organization provided any of the following to or for a person listed on Form
990, Part VII, Section A, line 1a. Complete Part III to provide any relevant information regarding these items.
b
If any of the boxes in line 1a are checked, did the organization follow a written policy regarding payment or reimbursement or provision of all of the expenses described above? If "No," complete Part III to explain .........
1b
Yes
 
2
Did the organization require substantiation prior to reimbursing or allowing expenses incurred by all
directors, trustees, officers, including the CEO/Executive Director, regarding the items checked in line 1a? ..
2
Yes
 
3
Indicate which, if any, of the following the filing organization used to establish the compensation of the
organization's CEO/Executive Director. Check all that apply. Do not check any boxes for methods
used by a related organization to establish compensation of the CEO/Executive Director, but explain in Part III.
4
During the year, did any person listed on Form 990, Part VII, Section A, line 1a with respect to the filing organization or a related organization:
a
Receive a severance payment or change-of-control payment? ................
4a
 
No
b
Participate in, or receive payment from, a supplemental nonqualified retirement plan? .........
4b
Yes
 
c
Participate in, or receive payment from, an equity-based compensation arrangement? .........
4c
 
No
If "Yes" to any of lines 4a-c, list the persons and provide the applicable amounts for each item in Part III.
Only 501(c)(3), 501(c)(4), and 501(c)(29) organizations must complete lines 5-9.
5
For persons listed on Form 990, Part VII, Section A, line 1a, did the organization pay or accrue any
compensation contingent on the revenues of:
a
The organization? ...........................
5a
 
No
b
Any related organization?
5b
 
No
If "Yes," on line 5a or 5b, describe in Part III.
6
For persons listed on Form 990, Part VII, Section A, line 1a, did the organization pay or accrue any
compensation contingent on the net earnings of:
a
The organization?
6a
 
No
b
Any related organization? .........................
6b
 
No
If "Yes," on line 6a or 6b, describe in Part III.
7
For persons listed on Form 990, Part VII, Section A, line 1a, did the organization provide any non-fixed
payments not described in lines 5 and 6? If "Yes," describe in Part III ............
7
 
No
8
Were any amounts reported on Form 990, Part VII, paid or accured pursuant to a contract that was
subject to the initial contract exception described in Regulations section 53.4958-4(a)(3)? If "Yes," describe
in Part III .............................
8
 
No
9
If "Yes" on line 8, did the organization also follow the rebuttable presumption procedure described in Regulations section 53.4958-6(c)? .........................
9
 
 
For Paperwork Reduction Act Notice, see the Instructions for Form 990.
Cat. No. 50053T
Schedule J (Form 990) 2015

Schedule J (Form 990) 2015
Page 2
Part II
Officers, Directors, Trustees, Key Employees, and Highest Compensated Employees. Use duplicate copies if additional space is needed.
For each individual whose compensation must be reported on Schedule J, report compensation from the organization on row (i) and from related organizations, described in the
instructions, on row (ii). Do not list any individuals that are not listed on Form 990, Part VII.
Note. The sum of columns (B)(i)-(iii) for each listed individual must equal the total amount of Form 990, Part VII, Section A, line 1a, applicable column (D) and (E) amounts for that individual.
(A) Name and Title (B) Breakdown of W-2 and/or 1099-MISC compensation (C) Retirement and other deferred compensation (D) Nontaxable
benefits		 (E) Total of columns
(B)(i)-(D) 		(F) Compensation in column(B) reported as deferred on prior Form 990
(i) Base compensation (ii) Bonus & incentive compensation (iii) Other reportable compensation
1Mark VolpeManaging Director (i)

(ii)		 515,966
-------------
0 		0
-------------
0 		254,562
-------------
0 		31,312
-------------
0 		29,888
-------------
0 		831,728
-------------
0 		 
-------------
 
2Thomas D MayChief Financial Officer (i)

(ii)		 260,372
-------------
0 		0
-------------
0 		1,306
-------------
0 		7,921
-------------
0 		30,118
-------------
0 		299,717
-------------
0 		 
-------------
 
3Bart ReidyClerk of the Board (i)

(ii)		 215,662
-------------
0 		0
-------------
0 		198
-------------
0 		22,144
-------------
0 		28,337
-------------
0 		266,341
-------------
0 		 
-------------
 
4Kim NoltemyChief Operating and Communications Officer (i)

(ii)		 252,399
-------------
0 		0
-------------
0 		369
-------------
0 		24,633
-------------
0 		33,063
-------------
0 		310,464
-------------
0 		 
-------------
 
5Malcolm LoweConcertmaster (i)

(ii)		 390,969
-------------
0 		0
-------------
0 		24,433
-------------
0 		0
-------------
0 		34,125
-------------
0 		449,527
-------------
0 		 
-------------
 
6John A Ferrillo JrPrincipal Oboe (i)

(ii)		 280,484
-------------
0 		0
-------------
0 		6,137
-------------
0 		30,818
-------------
0 		30,073
-------------
0 		347,512
-------------
0 		 
-------------
 
7Thomas C Rolfs JrPrincipal Trumpet (i)

(ii)		 245,386
-------------
0 		0
-------------
0 		33,687
-------------
0 		29,604
-------------
0 		33,520
-------------
0 		342,197
-------------
0 		 
-------------
 
8Steven AnsellPrincipal Viola (i)

(ii)		 244,432
-------------
0 		0
-------------
0 		19,819
-------------
0 		26,016
-------------
0 		30,073
-------------
0 		320,340
-------------
0 		 
-------------
 
9Timothy GenisTimpanist (i)

(ii)		 216,594
-------------
0 		0
-------------
0 		38,730
-------------
0 		22,881
-------------
0 		869
-------------
0 		279,074
-------------
0 		 
-------------
 
Schedule J (Form 990) 2015

Schedule J (Form 990) 2015
Page 3
Part III
Supplemental Information
Provide the information, explanation, or descriptions required for Part I, lines 1a, 1b, 3, 4a, 4b, 4c, 5a, 5b, 6a, 6b, 7, and 8, and for Part II. Also complete this part for any additional information.
Return Reference Explanation
Schedule J, Part I, Line 1a ) In connection with the business needs of the Boston Symphony Orchestra, (BSO), charter travel is used when transporting large numbers of personnel in connection with the orchestra's touring. As a general rule, the BSO does not provide first class travel for employees. 2) In rare instances, the Managing Director's spouse may travel with him for donor cultivation and fund-raising purposes. Events attended are related to the business purposes of the Boston Symphony. Such travel is entered into and substantiated in accordance with the spousal travel policy adopted by the BSO. 3) Housing for Mark Volpe, Managing Director, is provided during the summer for the convenience of the BSO in connection with the Orchestra's activities away from Boston at Tanglewood, and is not considered taxable.
Schedule J, Part I, Line 4 The compensation listed for Mark Volpe, Managing Director, for calendar year 2015 includes Base Compensation of $515,966. Other Reportable Compensation includes 1) taxable fringe in the amount of $10,550 mainly for life and disability insurance and for personal use of a vehicle provided by the BSO; 2) contributions of $18,000 made by Mr. Volpe into a 457(b) plan; and 3) a payment of $226,011 which represents the current year obligation related to a retirement compensation plan established for Mr. Volpe in fiscal 2007 in recognition of his 10 years of outstanding service to the BSO. As amended in 2013, the plan is designed to provide Mr. Volpe an annual retirement benefit at age 60 equal to approximately 50% of the average compensation earned during his last 5 years of employment. An irrevocable portion of this benefit is accrued and paid each year that he is employed.
Schedule J (Form 990) 2015
Additional Data


Software ID: 15000352
Software Version: v1.00
Schedule L
(Form 990 or 990-EZ)
Department of the Treasury
Internal Revenue Service
Transactions with Interested Persons
MediumBullet Complete if the organization answered
"Yes" on Form 990, Part IV, lines 25a, 25b, 26, 27, 28a, 28b, or 28c,
or Form 990-EZ, Part V, line 38a or 40b.
MediumBullet Attach to Form 990 or Form 990-EZ.
MediumBulletInformation about Schedule L (Form 990 or 990-EZ) and its instructions is at www.irs.gov/form990.
OMB No. 1545-0047
2015
Open to Public Inspection
Name of the organization
BOSTON SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA INC
 
Employer identification number

04-2103550
Part I
Excess Benefit Transactions (section 501(c)(3), section 501(c)(4), and 501(c)(29) organizations only).
Complete if the organization answered "Yes" on Form 990, Part IV, line 25a or 25b, or Form 990-EZ, Part V, line 40b.
1(a) Name of disqualified person (b) Relationship between disqualified person and organization (c) Description of transaction (d) Corrected?
Yes No
2
Enter the amount of tax incurred by organization managers or disqualified persons during the year under section 4958. ........................... Bullet Image$
 
3
Enter the amount of tax, if any, on line 2, above, reimbursed by the organization ........ Bullet Image$
 

Part II
Loans to and/or From Interested Persons.
Complete if the organization answered "Yes" on Form 990-EZ, Part V, line 38a, or Form 990, Part IV, line 26; or if the organization reported an amount on Form 990, Part X, line 5, 6, or 22
(a) Name of interested person (b) Relationship with organization (c) Purpose of loan (d) Loan to or from the organization? (e)Original principal amount (f)Balance due (g) In default? (h) Approved by board or committee? (i)Written agreement?
To From Yes No Yes No Yes No
(1) Mark Volpe Officer Mortgage   X 200,000 27,814   No Yes   Yes  
Total ...............Small Bullet $ 27,814
Part III
Grants or Assistance Benefiting Interested Persons.
Complete if the organization answered "Yes" on Form 990, Part IV, line 27.
(a) Name of interested person (b) Relationship between interested person and the organization (c) Amount of assistance (d) Type of assistance (e) Purpose of assistance
For Paperwork Reduction Act Notice, see the Instructions for Form 990 or 990-EZ.
Cat. No. 50056A
Schedule L (Form 990 or 990-EZ) 2015
Schedule L (Form 990 or 990-EZ) 2015
Page 2
Part IV
Business Transactions Involving Interested Persons.
Complete if the organization answered "Yes" on Form 990, Part IV, line 28a, 28b, or 28c.
(a) Name of interested person (b) Relationship between interested person and the organization (c) Amount of transaction (d) Description of transaction (e) Sharing of organization's revenues?
Yes No
(1) Tisbury Tours
  		Co. owned by spouse of trustee 1,154,486 Engaged to perform concerts   No
Part V
Supplemental Information
Provide additional information for responses to questions on Schedule L (see instructions).
Return Reference Explanation
Schedule L, Part II On September 12, 1997, a thirty-year, $200,000 loan was made to the Managing Director, Mark Volpe. This loan, which is secured by a mortgage on his principal residence , is payable in biweekly installments of principal and interest. During 2003, the loan was refinanced and the term was changed to fifteen years. The interest rate was determined using the IRS approved market rate in effect at the time of the inception and the refinancing of the loan.
Schedule L (Form 990 or 990-EZ) 2015


Additional Data


Software ID: 15000352
Software Version: v1.00




SCHEDULE M
(Form 990)

Department of the Treasury
Internal Revenue Service
Noncash Contributions
Right pointing arrow large imageComplete if the organizations answered "Yes" on Form 990, Part IV, lines 29 or 30.
Right pointing arrow large image Attach to Form 990.
Right pointing arrow large imageInformation about Schedule M (Form 990) and its instructions is at www.irs.gov/form990
OMB No. 1545-0047
2015
Open to Public Inspection
Name of the organization
BOSTON SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA INC
 
Employer identification number

04-2103550
Part I
Types of Property
(a)
Check if applicable 		(b)
Number of contributions or items contributed 		(c)
Noncash contribution amounts reported on
Form 990, Part VIII, line 1g 		(d)
Method of determining
noncash contribution amounts
1 Art—Works of art ....        
2 Art—Historical treasures .        
3 Art—Fractional interests ..        
4 Books and publications ..      
5 Clothing and household
goods ....... 		     
6 Cars and other vehicles ..        
7 Boats and planes ....        
8 Intellectual property ...        
9 Securities—Publicly traded . X 116 3,767,006 Fair Market Value
10 Securities—Closely held stock . X 1 100,030 Fair Market Value
11 Securities—Partnership, LLC,
or trust interests .... 		       
12 Securities—Miscellaneous ..        
13 Qualified conservation
contribution—Historic
structures ..... 		       
14 Qualified conservation
contribution—Other ... 		       
15 Real estate—Residential . X 1 192,606 Fair Market Value
16 Real estate—Commercial ..        
17 Real estate—Other ...        
18 Collectibles .....        
19 Food inventory ...        
20 Drugs and medical supplies .        
21 Taxidermy ......        
22 Historical artifacts ....        
23 Scientific specimens ..        
24 Archeological artifacts ...        
25 Other Right pointing arrow large image ( Flute ) X 1 13,920 Fair Market Value
26 Other Right pointing arrow large image ( Music Scores ) X 1 30,050 Fair Market Value
27 Other Right pointing arrow large image ( Furniture ) X 4 12,665 Fair Market Value
28 Other Right pointing arrow large image ( Hospitality goods ) X 12 35,246 Fair Market Value
29
Number of Forms 8283 received by the organization during the tax year for contributions
for which the organization completed Form 8283, Part IV, Donee Acknowledgement
29
1
Yes
No
30a
During the year, did the organization receive by contribution any property reported in Part I, lines 1 through 28, that
it must hold for at least three years from the date of the initial contribution, and which is not required to be used
for exempt purposes for the entire holding period? ..................
30a
Yes
 
b
If "Yes," describe the arrangement in Part II.
31
Does the organization have a gift acceptance policy that requires the review of any non-standard contributions?
31
Yes
 
32a
Does the organization hire or use third parties or related organizations to solicit, process, or sell noncash
contributions? ..........................
32a
 
No
b
If "Yes," describe in Part II.
33
If the organization did not report an amount in column (c) for a type of property for which column (a) is checked,
describe in Part II.
For Paperwork Reduction Act Notice, see the Instructions for Form 990.
Cat. No. 51227J
Schedule M (Form 990) (2015)
Schedule M (Form 990) (2015)
Page 2
Part II
Supplemental Information. Provide the information required by Part I, lines 30b, 32b, and 33, and whether the organization is reporting in Part I, column (b), the number of contributions, the number of items received, or a combination of both. Also complete this part for any additional information.
Return Reference Explanation
Schedule M, Part I Column B responses represent the number of contributions.
Schedule M, Part I, Line 30b Closely held stock
Schedule M (Form 990) (2015)

Additional Data


Software ID: 15000352
Software Version: v1.00
SCHEDULE O
(Form 990 or 990-EZ)

Department of the Treasury
Internal Revenue Service
Supplemental Information to Form 990 or 990-EZ

Complete to provide information for responses to specific questions on
Form 990 or 990-EZ or to provide any additional information.
MediumBullet Attach to Form 990 or 990-EZ.
MediumBullet Information about Schedule O (Form 990 or 990-EZ) and its instructions is at
www.irs.gov/form990.
OMB No. 1545-0047
2015
Open to Public
Inspection
Name of the organization
BOSTON SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA INC
 
Employer identification number

04-2103550
Return Reference Explanation
Form 990, Part I, Line 6 Volunteers comprise the 750 members of the Boston Symphony Association of Volunteers (BSAV), who provide a variety of services both at Symphony Hall and Tanglewood. Also included as volunteers are the 315 members of the Tanglewood Festival Chorus (TFC), who donate their time and talent performing year-round with the Boston Symphony Orchestra and the Boston Pops Orchestra. Also included are 35 voting trustees and 220 non-voting members of the governing body.
Form 990, Part VI, Section A, Line 2 Trustee Stephen Kay serves on the Board of the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute. The Dana-Farber Cancer Institute employs another trustee, Dr. Robert J. Mayer, MD.
Form 990, Part VI, Section A, Line 8b In general, the Boston Symphony Orchestra (BSO) keeps minutes of all committees with authority to act on behalf of the boards.
Form 990, Part VI, Section B, Line 11b The Form 990 is prepared by BSO management and reviewed by a paid preparer. The complete 990 is then reviewed by the Audit Committee of the Board of Trustees. The Audit Committee reviews each section and schedule of the 990, focusing on key changes and substantive disclosures. Subsequent to this review, a copy of the final draft 990, which is the version to be filed with the IRS, is placed in a password-protected website for all members of the Board of Trustees to review in advance of their next board meeting. All members of the Board of Trustees receive an email notifying them that the Form 990 is available for review on the site. The final 990 is signed by the Chief Financial Officer and the paid preparer.
Form 990, Part VI, Section B, Line 12c The Boston Symphony Orchestra has a Conflict of Interest Policy that encompasses all employees and board members. The policy requires that Trustees, Officers, Overseers, Ex-Officio Board members, members of a committee with board-delegated powers, senior staff members or any person with substantial influence over the BSO to disclose the existence of any potential or actual conflicts of interest to the Board or to members of the Executive Committee. The Board or Executive Committee then discusses and votes in order to determine whether an actual conflict of interest exists. If a conflict exists, the Board or Executive Committee evaluates the particular transaction or arrangement to determine the most reasonable course of action. The individual who disclosed the conflict must leave the Board or Executive Committee meeting during the discussion of, and the vote on, the transaction or arrangement that results in the conflict of interest. Additionally, the policy also requires any staff member that has information about a possible conflict, to report the matter promptly to their supervisor, the Director of Human Resources or to the Chief Financial Officer. The Director of Human Resources and the Chief Financial Officer will review the circumstances of the possible conflict with other appropriate management to make a determination about the most reasonable course of action. A breach of the conflict of interest policy is grounds for disciplinary action, up to and including termination. Additionally, on an annual basis, all Trustees, Officers, Overseers, Ex-Officio Board members, members of a committee with board-delegated powers, senior staff members or any person with substantial influence over the BSO is provided with a copy of the policy and must sign a statement affirming that they have received, read and understand the policy; they must also affirm that they agree to comply with the policy. As part of this Annual Notice of Policy, each individual is also required to disclose any potential or actual conflicts of interest in writing. All responses indicating a potential or actual conflict are subject to review by the Board or the Executive Committee as described above.
Form 990, Part VI, Section B, Line 15 The BSO has a designated Compensation Committee, comprised of trustees of the BSO, which sets the process for determining and approving compensation for officers and key employees. The Compensation Committee's process includes: (a) development and consideration of comparability data to provide a basis for the Committee's decisions and (b) consideration of the (i) applicable accounting and disclosure rules, (ii) emerging trends in corporate governance, and (iii) standards and guidelines promulgated by the Division of Public Charities of the Massachusetts office of the Attorney General (collectively, the "Compensation Process"). Deliberations of the Compensation Committee in connection with the Compensation Process are contemporaneously documented. When evaluating officers and key employees, the Compensation Committee carefully considers the following factors: (i) duties and responsibilities, (ii) background and experience, (iii) dedication, commitment and work schedule, (iv) leadership, management and professional skills, (v) overall performance and standing, (vi) the BSO's salary scale of employees generally, and (vii) the BSO's annual budget. The Compensation Committee's most recent review of officer and key employee compensation occurred in 2016.
Form 990, Part VI, Section C, Line 19 The Boston Symphony Orchestra's audited financial statements, conflict of interest policy and other governing documents are available upon request.
Form 990, Part VII, Section A, Line 1b Compensation reported is based on calendar 2015 amounts.
Form 990, Part VII, Section B, Line 1(C) Compensation reported is based on calendar 2015 amounts.
Form 990, Part IX, Line 11g Line 11 g comprises $13,649,355 of artistic and other concert related fees and $2,002,796 of security, medical, parking and other services.
Form 990, Part XI, Line 9 Other changes in net assets or fund balances of ($14,747,023) comprise of change in value of split interest agreements of $1,359,597 and retirement plan-related charges other than net periodic benefit cost of ($16,106,620).
For Paperwork Reduction Act Notice, see the Instructions for Form 990 or 990-EZ.
Cat. No. 51056K
Schedule O (Form 990 or 990-EZ) 2015


Additional Data


Software ID: 15000352
Software Version: v1.00
SCHEDULE R
(Form 990)
Department of the Treasury
Internal Revenue Service
Related Organizations and Unrelated Partnerships
MediumBulletComplete if the organization answered "Yes" on Form 990, Part IV, line 33, 34, 35b, 36, or 37.
MediumBulletAttach to Form 990.
MediumBullet Information about Schedule R (Form 990) and its instructions is at www.irs.gov/form990.

OMB No. 1545-0047
2015
Open to Public Inspection
Name of the organization
BOSTON SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA INC
 
Employer identification number

04-2103550
Part I
Identification of Disregarded Entities Complete if the organization answered "Yes" on Form 990, Part IV, line 33.
(a)
Name, address, and EIN (if applicable) of disregarded entity


(b)
Primary activity


 		(c)
Legal domicile (state
or foreign country)

 		(d)
Total income


 		(e)
End-of-year assets


 		(f)
Direct controlling
entity










Part II
Identification of Related Tax-Exempt Organizations Complete if the organization answered "Yes" on Form 990, Part IV, line 34 because it had one or more related tax-exempt organizations during the tax year.
(a)
Name, address, and EIN of related organization


(b)
Primary activity


 		(c)
Legal domicile (state
or foreign country)

 		(d)
Exempt Code section


 		(e)
Public charity status
(if section 501(c)(3))

 		(f)
Direct controlling
entity

 		(g)
Section 512(b)(13) controlled entity?
Yes No












For Paperwork Reduction Act Notice, see the Instructions for Form 990.
Cat. No. 50135Y
Schedule R (Form 990) 2015
Schedule R (Form 990) 2015
Page 2
Part III
Identification of Related Organizations Taxable as a Partnership Complete if the organization answered "Yes" on Form 990, Part IV, line 34 because it had one or more related organizations treated as a partnership during the tax year.
(a)
Name, address, and EIN of
related organization



 		(b)
Primary activity




 		(c)
Legal
domicile
(state or foreign
country)


 		(d)
Direct controlling
entity



 		(e)
Predominant income(related, unrelated, excluded from tax under sections 512-514)

(f)
Share of total income




 		(g)
Share of end-of-year
assets



 		(h)
Disproprtionate allocations?




 		(i)
Code V-UBI
amount in box 20 of
Schedule K-1
(Form 1065)
 		(j)
General or
managing
partner?



 		(k)
Percentage
ownership
Yes No Yes No
(1) 263 HA Limited Partnership

301 Massachusetts Avenue
Boston,MA02115
 Real Estate MA 263 Realty Corporation
  		Excluded 1,395,440 8,710,351   No     No 99 %












Part IV
Identification of Related Organizations Taxable as a Corporation or Trust Complete if the organization answered "Yes" on Form 990, Part IV, line 34 because it had one or more related organizations treated as a corporation or trust during the tax year.
(a)
Name, address, and EIN of
related organization
 		(b)
Primary activity
 		(c)
Legal
domicile
(state or foreign
country)
 		(d)
Direct controlling
entity
 		(e)
Type of entity
(C corp, S corp,
or trust) 		(f)
Share of total income
 		(g)
Share of end-of-year
assets
 		(h)
Percentage
ownership
 		(i)
Section 512(b)(13) controlled entity?
Yes No
(1) 263 Realty Corporation

301 Massachusetts Avenue
Boston,MA02115
 Real Estate MA Boston Symphony
  		C 6,185 43,214 100 % Yes  
(2) Trust

301 Massachusetts Avenue
Boston,MA02115
 Trust MA Boston Symphony Orchestra Inc
  		T       Yes  










Schedule R (Form 990) 2015
Schedule R (Form 990) 2015
Page 3
Part V
Transactions With Related Organizations Complete if the organization answered "Yes" on Form 990, Part IV, line 34, 35b, or 36.
Note. Complete line 1 if any entity is listed in Parts II, III, or IV of this schedule.
Yes
No
1 During the tax year, did the orgranization engage in any of the following transactions with one or more related organizations listed in Parts II-IV?
a Receipt of (i) interest, (ii) annuities, (iii) royalties, or (iv) rent from a controlled entity .....................
1a
 
No
b Gift, grant, or capital contribution to related organization(s) ............................
1b
 
No
c Gift, grant, or capital contribution from related organization(s) ............................
1c
 
No
d Loans or loan guarantees to or for related organization(s) ............................
1d
 
No
e Loans or loan guarantees by related organization(s) ............................
1e
 
No
f Dividends from related organization(s) ............................
1f
 
No
g Sale of assets to related organization(s) ............................
1g
 
No
h Purchase of assets from related organization(s) ............................
1h
Yes
 
i Exchange of assets with related organization(s) ............................
1i
 
No
j Lease of facilities, equipment, or other assets to related organization(s) .......................
1j
 
No
k Lease of facilities, equipment, or other assets from related organization(s) ......................
1k
Yes
 
l Performance of services or membership or fundraising solicitations for related organization(s) .....................
1l
 
No
m Performance of services or membership or fundraising solicitations by related organization(s) .................
1m
 
No
n Sharing of facilities, equipment, mailing lists, or other assets with related organization(s) ...................
1n
Yes
 
o Sharing of paid employees with related organization(s) ............................
1o
Yes
 
p Reimbursement paid to related organization(s) for expenses ............................
1p
 
No
q Reimbursement paid by related organization(s) for expenses ............................
1q
 
No
r Other transfer of cash or property to related organization(s) ............................
1r
 
No
s Other transfer of cash or property from related organization(s) ............................
1s
Yes
 
2
If the answer to any of the above is "Yes," see the instructions for information on who must complete this line, including covered relationships and transaction thresholds.
(a)
Name of related organization 		(b)
Transaction
type (a-s) 		(c)
Amount involved 		(d)
Method of determining amount involved
(1) 263 HA Limited Partnership

 k 316,380 Fair market value
(2) 263 HA Limited Partnership

 s 1,259,104 Actual partnership distribution




Schedule R (Form 990) 2015
Schedule R (Form 990) 2015
Page 4
Part VI
Unrelated Organizations Taxable as a Partnership Complete if the organization answered "Yes" on Form 990, Part IV, line 37.
Provide the following information for each entity taxed as a partnership through which the organization conducted more than five percent of its activities (measured by total assets or gross revenue) that was not a related organization. See instructions regarding exclusion for certain investment partnerships.
(a)
Name, address, and EIN of entity 		(b)
Primary activity 		(c)
Legal domicile
(state or foreign
country) 		(d)
Predominant income (related, unrelated, excluded from tax under sections 512-514)

(e)
Are all partners
section
501(c)(3)
organizations? 		(f)
Share of total income




 		(g)
Share of
end-of-year
assets 		(h)
Disproprtionate allocations? 		(i)
Code V-UBI
amount in box 20
of Schedule K-1
(Form 1065) 		(j)
General or
managing
partner? 		(k)
Percentage
ownership
Yes No Yes No Yes No






























Schedule R (Form 990) 2015
Schedule R (Form 990) 2015
Page 5
Part VII
Supplemental Information
Provide additional information for responses to questions on Schedule R (see instructions).
Return Reference Explanation
Schedule R (Form 990) 2015

Additional Data


Software ID: 15000352
Software Version: v1.00