By Ray Artigue
Sometimes, life – or maybe it’s fate – unfolds in a way that produces coincidences. For example, if your last name is Rocker, it might be no surprise that your occupation has something to do with stage performances.
But Tammy Rocker’s musical genre differs from what you might think – she prefers Beethoven’s 5th to Guns N’ Roses.
Rocker is Phoenix Symphony’s new senior vice president and chief advancement officer. She rejoins the company after successful stints at the American Lung Association and the American Heart Association.
She brings an impressive professional leadership and fundraising resume, including organizing and leading multimillion-dollar development campaigns.
“We are thrilled that Tammy has returned to the Phoenix Symphony at such an important time in our history,” Peter Kjome, president and CEO, said. “Her leadership abilities, extensive experience, and relationships with community leaders will help us advance our great orchestra.”
Rocker quickly points out the differences between cultivating financial support for lifesaving health organizations and cultural offerings.
“With the arts, you must find a person’s passion for such things, which is far different from someone supporting an organization that may have saved a loved one. After all, most everyone has been impacted by someone they know with heart disease,” she said. “This is an exciting time to return to the Phoenix Symphony, and I look forward to working with everyone there and supporting the programs that enrich the lives of thousands in our community.”
Rocker said that the company performs away from Symphony Hall in various locations, including art centers, schools, and churches. She is passionate about a symphony orchestra’s role in the community.
“The arts are so essential. In addition to improving the quality of life, they play an economic development role by attracting certain businesses,” she said.
Rocker and her husband, Jim, moved to the Valley from Los Angeles in 2015. They have five grown sons and two grandchildren but are far from empty-nesters. Their house is abuzz with their three chihuahuas, Kirby, Lady Bug, and Mr. Wooderson.
“They are the most important residents of the house, and they know it,” Rocker laughed. “Arcadia is such a family-friendly neighborhood – you can walk your dogs, wave at neighbors, and know that everyone watches out for one another.”
In her free time, Rocker and her husband break out their beach cruisers and traverse the neighborhood. Their favorite getaway is to Pine, where they have a cabin. She also loves to tend to her backyard garden, discover estate sales, and go antiquing. Her bucket list is overflowing with overseas travel, including trips to Greece, Spain, Portugal, and Italy one day.
Asked what she would say to someone who has never been to the Phoenix Symphony, Rocker said, “This season is going to be absolutely magical – come and see for yourself.”