Summer Update from President and CEO Peter Kjome

July 2026

Dear Friends,

When the concert season pauses at Symphony Hall during the summer months, the musicians of your Phoenix Symphony remain at work throughout our community. With your support, we are bringing live music to memory care facilities, hospice centers, organizations serving people facing homelessness, and more. This work is central to our mission as one of Arizona’s most important cultural assets, and a reminder of what we are achieving together.

A remarkable 2026-27 Season lies ahead. As the Symphony’s national reputation continues to grow, our musicians are playing at an exceptional level that many regard as the highest in our history. Last October, Paolo Bortolameolli led unforgettable performances during our international music director search, and this October he returns as Virginia G. Piper Music Director Designate. Together with Principal Pops Conductor Stuart Chafetz, our musicians, and you, an exciting new chapter begins.

CRESCENDO, the Campaign for The Phoenix Symphony, continues to advance. In May, our cellist Laurie Stearns Selby, as she retired after a 44-year career, joined with her husband Tom to make an extraordinary commitment to the campaign. Their generosity reflects their deep belief in the importance of the Symphony, and is inspiring many others to join us as we work together with leaders across our community to build a strong foundation for the future.

Beyond the concert hall, our Community Engagement & Education programs reach more than 100,000 Arizonans each year. We are collaborating to increase our collective impact, and this summer we are partnering with the Phoenix Art Museum, Downtown Phoenix Inc., Valley Metro, The Academy, and other organizations to bring live music across the Valley.

None of this would be possible without you. Whether you attend concerts, provide philanthropic support, or share your enthusiasm with others, you help ensure that Phoenix and Arizona remain home to this great orchestra for generations to come.

With gratitude,

Peter Kjome
President and CEO

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