The Phoenix Symphony is poised to once again fill concert halls with music, as performances are set to restart next week. This comes after the recent layoff of 66 musicians, a result of financial constraints that put the season on hold.
The symphony will return to the stage on November 12, with performances extending through the year’s end, following a successful fundraising campaign. This revival comes shortly after a cash crunch necessitated the suspension of the current season.
Looking ahead, sustaining the symphony through 2027 will require additional funds. Efforts are underway, as musicians collaborate with the Phoenix Symphony Board of Directors to secure financial stability. A new commission is set to explore long-term financial strategies.
A benefit concert is scheduled for Sunday at Monroe Street Abbey in downtown Phoenix to aid musicians financially impacted by the layoff.
Musicians’ Perspective
After securing enough funding, the Phoenix Symphony will resume performances on November 12, as announced by the Board of Directors. This decision follows the layoff of the symphony’s musicians on November 2, and the overwhelming support from donors and the community.
Bridget Pasker, Associate Principal Cello and Orchestra Committee Co-Chair, stated, “We are relieved to be coming back, and we are grateful to everyone who refused to let this orchestra go silent.” She emphasized the need for continued support to extend performances beyond December 31.
Musicians are committed to working with the Symphony’s administration and Board to ensure financial sustainability. They will also participate in a benefit concert on November 8 to raise funds for themselves.
The board’s initiative to establish a new commission includes musician representation, ensuring that their perspectives on compensation and working conditions are considered. Pasker highlighted the need for rebuilding trust and community engagement to secure the symphony’s future.
Concert details and ticket information are available at phoenixsymphony.org.
Board of Directors’ Insights
Performances will resume on November 12 following successful fundraising efforts, allowing the Phoenix Symphony to lift its earlier season suspension. The comeback is a testament to the community’s passion and generosity.
Mo Stein, Chair of the Phoenix Symphony Association Board of Directors, expressed gratitude for the swift response from community leaders and emphasized the need to rethink the symphony’s operational model. “Their fast action and commitment have made it possible to bring our musicians back to the stage,” Stein noted.
The New American Symphony Commission, an 11-member group, will seek sustainable solutions for the symphony’s financial challenges. Business leaders John Graham and Don Opatrny will lead this initiative, supported by musicians and community representatives.
“Getting our musicians on stage again was our top priority,” said John Graham. The focus now shifts to developing a sustainable financial and operational strategy.
“We owe our musicians, donors and audiences a disciplined, realistic plan for lasting financial stability,” remarked Don Opatrny.
Details on the symphony’s ongoing programs and performances can be found at phoenixsymphony.org.
Board president Mo Stein encouraged community involvement, stating, “Now, more than ever, we need the community to be part of the Phoenix Symphony’s future.”
