The Phoenix Symphony is set to return to the concert hall on November 12, marking the end of a brief suspension that threatened to silence the city’s beloved orchestra. The board of directors confirmed Friday that sufficient community donations have been secured to fund performances through December 31.
Community generosity makes the music possible
“We are relieved to be coming back, and we are grateful to everyone who refused to let this orchestra go silent,” said Bridget Pasker, associate principal cello and co‑chair of the orchestra committee. Pasker added that keeping the music alive beyond December will require continued support from both the musicians and the public.
Earlier this month, 66 musicians were laid off after the Symphony’s final scheduled concert for the year. In response, the Symphony’s musicians are organizing a benefit concert on Sunday, November 8, at Monroe Street Abbey in downtown Phoenix. Proceeds from the event will go directly to the musicians affected by the layoffs.
Long‑term financial planning underway
The board also announced the creation of a new commission tasked with developing a sustainable financial plan for the Symphony’s future. Two musicians will serve on the commission, bringing an insider’s perspective to the effort.
“If this challenge has reaffirmed anything for me, it’s that every corner of our city shares a deep passion for the Phoenix Symphony,” said Mo Stein, chair of the Phoenix Symphony Association Board of Directors. Stein praised the swift response of local leaders, organizations, and culture lovers, whose generosity enabled the orchestra’s comeback and opened the door for a strategic rethink of its operations.
Leadership expresses gratitude
Peter Kjome, president and CEO of the Symphony, echoed the sentiment, stating, “Just days ago, we faced the heartbreaking prospect of a silent concert hall and an uncertain future. Now we can welcome our musicians and audiences back. All of us are grateful for their dedication and for the Valley leaders and organizations who helped make this return possible.”
Tickets for the upcoming concerts are available online; interested patrons are encouraged to purchase early to ensure seating.
Looking ahead
While the Symphony’s immediate future looks promising, the board emphasized that additional fundraising will be necessary to sustain operations into the 2027 season. Community members are urged to continue their support through donations, volunteer efforts, and attendance at upcoming performances.
The revival of the Phoenix Symphony underscores the power of local collaboration and the city’s commitment to preserving its cultural heritage. As the orchestra prepares to fill the hall with music once again, residents can look forward to a season that celebrates both artistic excellence and the resilient spirit of Phoenix.
Original reporting: azfamily KTVK/KPHO Phoenix (news) — read the source article.
