Phoenix Symphony to suspend season, lay off musicians

By Steve Stockmar
Mail |
Instagram: steve.stockmar

The Phoenix Symphony will suspend the remainder of its 2026-27 season following its Nov. 1 performance, citing a financial shortfall that has left the organization unable to meet its operating obligations.

The Symphony’s board of directors announced the decision Tuesday, saying the suspension will affect musicians, employees, subscribers and community programs. Unpaid layoffs of musicians will begin Nov. 2. The organization has not announced when performances might resume.

Despite increased ticket sales and philanthropic support, the symphony has struggled with persistent operating deficits and mounting financial obligations, according to a press release.

Annual revenues increased more than 50% between fiscal years 2023 and 2026, while approximately $766,000 in administrative expenses have been eliminated. The organization also launched its CRESCENDO endowment campaign in April 2025 with a $60 million fundraising goal, although most endowment contributions cannot be used for daily operations.

"This is the most difficult decision this Board has faced, and we did not make it lightly," Board Chairman Mo Stein shared in the Tuesday statement.

Stein said continuing performances without sufficient cash flow would further jeopardize the organization’s future. The board plans to reassess operating expenses, revenue projections and fundraising needs while developing a financial restructuring plan.

Founded in 1947, the Phoenix Symphony has been a fixture in Arizona’s cultural community for nearly eight decades, performing at Symphony Hall and other Valley venues with internationally recognized conductors and guest artists. Its concerts, educational offerings and community programs have reached thousands of residents annually.

President and CEO Peter Kjome acknowledged the consequences for musicians, staff and audiences, saying the organization would pursue opportunities to preserve the institution.

The Phoenix Symphony will perform live alongside Ballet Arizona during its Oct. 22-25 production of “Romeo & Juliet,” as originally scheduled, according to a statement from Ballet Arizona. Click here for tickets.

“When musicians and dancers share a stage, every performance becomes a conversation that can never be repeated in quite the same way,” Ballet Arizona Artistic Director Daniela Cardim shared in a Tuesday statement. “My heart is heavy for the fellow artists and colleagues at The Phoenix Symphony who have played alongside our dancers.”

The symphony will notify subscribers and other ticket purchasers about options for affected performances once arrangements are finalized.

The timing of any return remains uncertain and will depend on securing adequate financial support and establishing a sustainable operating budget, the press release further notes. Updates will be posted at www.phoenixsymphony.org/updates.

Steve Stockmar
News Editor | Sun Life Magazine & Arts & Entertainment YourValley.net

sstockmar@iniusa.org

Meet Steve
Steve Stockmar joined Independent Newsmedia, Inc., USA, in 2017, and has been an Arizona journalist for almost 30 years. He serves as editor of Sun Life Magazine and contributes to West Valley communities where he focuses mostly on arts & culture, education, and profiles of neighbors making a difference.

Community: Every season Steve serves as a “buddy” with the Miracle League of Arizona in Scottsdale, has volunteered his time with Family Promise in Glendale, and previously served on the Ghostlight Theatre board in Sun City West.

Education: Graduated from Northern Arizona University in Flagstaff with a Journalism major and English minor.

Random Fact: Steve once won a 50-player live Texas Hold ’Em poker tournament.

Hobbies: Anguishing over his beloved Chicago Cubs and Bears; listening to Beatles and Grateful Dead music.