DMMO Honors Bill Main as Volunteer of the Year

The Des Moines Metro Opera Guild was proud to honor Bill Main as its 2026 Volunteer of the Year at this year's Threads & Trills.

Over the past 25 years, Bill's love for the opera has grown immeasurably. His first season was in 2000, when DMMO produced Bellini's Norma, Menotti's The Consul, and Offenbach's Orpheus in the Underworld. "Orpheus might have been a little intense for a first opera experience," said his wife, Nancy Main, who introduced Bill to DMMO. She recalled that when they first began attending, Bill would say, "I'm leaving at halftime," though over time Bill found it harder and harder to leave at "halftime".

Growing up, Bill was no stranger to classical music. His father was a violinist who later repaired instruments professionally and even host renowned violinist David Rubinoff in their home. That early exposure fostered a lifelong love of music and led Bill to form lasting friendships with many members of the DMMO family, including founder Dr. Robert L. Larsen.

Beyond the festival season, Bill has been a sustaining supporter of the Des Moines Chapter's In-Home Concert Series, generously opening his home to artists and fellow opera lovers. Whether it's the intimate home concerts or the summer mainstage performances, Bill is always lending a hand with event setup and a friendly face, sparking lively conversation with long-time members and even those who may be attending an event for the first time.

Congratulations, Bill, and thank you for your many years of friendship, generosity, and service to Des Moines Metro Opera!