The Phoenix Symphony hits high financial note

The Phoenix Symphony hits high financial note

Third balanced budget, record opening sales start season on high note

(PHOENIX) - The Phoenix Symphony announced at its annual meeting on Sept. 16 that its 2006-07 season started on a high note, with record-breaking good news in its financials. The 59-year-old organization recorded a third balanced budget in as many years, and set a new sales record of $55,000+ on the first day of single concert ticket sales, August 28. These indicators, along with excellent artistic offerings, are setting the stage for a great season said Maryellen Gleason, President and CEO of the Symphony.

"We're in the business of making music," noted Gleason. "Our patrons, our musicians, our donors all expect sound fiscal management from the Symphony to keep the orchestra successful. Obviously, these are good signs."

Overall, the Symphony's ticket sales were up in 2005-06, selling more than 122,000 tickets to 115 performances, the highest total paid attendance in the history of the institution. The season ended with a 26 percent increase in ticket revenue, supporting a 6 percent overall revenue increase from last season.

In addition to its strong early showing, The Phoenix Symphony has marked the 2006-07 season as a time for financial growth, setting a more than $10 million budget for the organization, which includes musician salaries, marketing, donor development and operations. As the largest performing arts organization in the state, The Phoenix Symphony takes seriously its role as an arts leader, said Symphony board chairman Gerald Murphy.

"We all understand how important the Phoenix Symphony is to its audience," said Murphy. "As chairman, I am committed to keeping the Symphony artistically stimulating and financially healthy. The results from the 2005-06 season prove we are meeting that goal."

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The Phoenix Symphony's 2007-08 Media Sponsors are The Arizona Republic and KAET.