Mobile Symphony received its largest gift in its history to endow the Orchestra's principal cello chair in memory of Emily (Patsy) Stone Fail. Philanthropist James Fail has made a commitment of $200,000 to lead the symphony's endowment drive campaign. Fail spent his childhood in Mobile and went to Murphy High School. He started on the violin when he was six, added the trombone to his repertoire, and was a member of the musicians' union in 1943 playing with such artists as Woody Herman and the Swingles.

"I can't imagine living somewhere that didn't have a strong arts presence," said Fail. "An endowment is important to have. When I was a board member of the Phoenix Symphony, the endowment helped get us through some rough economic times in the city. I hope my gift will encourage others to endow chairs for Mobile Symphony. It is important for the symphony's future."