CRESCENDO: The Campaign for the Phoenix Symphony

Amplify the Music. Advance our Community. One Note at a Time.

Campaign Priorities

The CRESCENDO campaign will enable our Symphony to provide extraordinary musical experiences that inspire and advance our community, enriching the lives of people of all ages and backgrounds. 

We will invest in world-class performances, accessible programming, and innovative concert experiences that reflect our diverse community. Support from CRESCENDO ensures that our musicians—who live and work in the Valley—can continue to elevate our cultural life.

Music is a powerful tool for healing and connection. Through wellness programs in memory care facilities, shelters, and hospitals, musicians bring live music to those unable to attend concerts, enriching lives and offering moments of shared humanity.

Our education initiatives serve thousands of Arizona students each year:

  • Symphony for the Schools offers free performances tailored for young audiences.
  • School Concerts bring professional musicians directly into classrooms.
  • Mind Over Music® integrates music into STEM learning, making math and science concepts more accessible and engaging.

The Symphony plays a critical role in the region’s economic and cultural health. We help attract talent, support local jobs, and contribute to the $400 million arts economy in Phoenix.

Oliver & Sharon Harper Family Legacy for Music Excellence

Join Sharon and Oliver Harper as they share their passion for music, community, and the future of the arts in Phoenix. Their $1 million investment establishes the Oliver & Sharon Harper Family Legacy for Music Excellence, a cornerstone of CRESCENDO: The Campaign for The Phoenix Symphony.

A Lasting Legacy: Virginia G. Piper Charitable Trust Honors Laura R. Grafman at The Phoenix Symphony

In honor of beloved community leader Laura R. Grafman, Virginia G. Piper Charitable Trust has made a $1 million commitment to endow the Laura R. Grafman Senior Vice President and Chief Advancement Officer position at The Phoenix Symphony. This enduring tribute celebrates Laura’s legacy of generosity and leadership while supporting the Symphony’s future growth and impact.

Funding Goals

STRENGTHEN & EXPAND PROGRAMS ($20 MILLION)

Provide Vital Strength

Fulfill our mission while fostering increased strength. As part of these efforts, grow our Community Engagement and Education programs and achieve a multi-year agreement with our musicians.

Strengthen Organizational Capacity

Provide critical investments in marketing, fundraising, operations, and programming to drive growth, enhance the audience experience, and support even more innovative and dynamic programming.

Enhance Artistic Excellence

Attract and retain the finest musicians who live and work in our community, while engaging guest artists and conductors who help inspire and elevate our performances.

BUILD A LASTING LEGACY ($40 MILLION)

Ensure Long-Term Financial Stability

Generate reliable, predictable income to support annual operations and reduce dependence on fluctuating revenue streams. The goal is aligned with the average of peer orchestras in the United States.

Protect Against Uncertainty

Create a financial buffer to navigate economic downturns and unforeseen challenges.

Secure the Future

Provide the flexibility to innovate and respond to the evolving needs of our community with new programs and initiatives.

Campaign Leadership

The CRESCENDO Campaign Cabinet is a dedicated group of leaders who are instrumental in guiding and supporting the Phoenix Symphony’s fundraising efforts. These distinguished community leaders and passionate advocates for our mission play a pivotal role in shaping the campaign’s vision, engaging key supporters, and ensuring we meet our ambitious goals. With their expertise, leadership, and commitment, they are driving transformative change that will enrich our community and secure a vibrant future for the Phoenix Symphony.

Honorary Chairs

Kathleen & John Graham

Sharon & Dr. Oliver Harper

Co-Chairs

Drs. Edie & Eric Bieber

Michele & Matt Feeney

Campaign Cabinet

Char & Alan Augenstein

Christy Burton

Lucia Renshaw & Bruce Covill

Dian D’Avanzo

Beth McRae & Bill Dougherty

Susie & Tim Ernst

Rebecca Ailes-Fine & Peter Fine

Neil Giuliano

Hon. Terry Goddard

Sydney Reed & Jeff Guldner

Lucy & Hon. Barry Holt

Jane & Mal Jozoff

Ina Smeets & Dr. Jim Kort

Linda Little

Fred Marderness

Jim McCain

Christopher McKay

Hon. Robert Meza

Jack Pothast

Monica Villalobos & Scott Richter

Ray Schey

Adrienne Schiffner

Deb & Mark Schwelling

Fred Sherman

Dr. Amy & Lee Silverthorn

Cathy & Mo Stein

Hon. Laura Terech

Rohit Tripathi

Charles Troupe

Jordan Rose & Rob Walton

FOR THE FUTURE YOU IMAGINE,

Join us to shape the Symphony of today and for generations to come.

CONTACT:

Tammy Rocker, Senior Vice President and Chief Advancement Officer, Laura R. Grafman Endowed CAO

Email: [email protected] 

Phone: (602) 452 – 0446

CYBER MONDAY SALE! 30% OFF FOR 30 HOURS! PROMO CODE: CYBERMONDAY26. Discount is applied to selected performances. Some restrictions apply.

Click here for more information.

BLACK FRIDAY SALE! 30% OFF FOR 30 HOURS! PROMO CODE: BLACKFRIDAY26. Discount is applied to selected performances. Some restrictions apply.

Click here for more information.

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Maximize Your Impact —
Before December 31

As the year comes to a close, your charitable gift can make a meaningful difference and provide valuable tax benefits.

Your support of The Phoenix Symphony helps ensure music continues to inspire our community — from unforgettable performances and music education programs to compassionate hospice bedside visits that bring comfort when words fall short.

Make your year-end gift today and help us reach our $250,000 goal before midnight on December 31. Your contribution is be tax-deductible and can have an immediate impact on the music and programs you care about most.

Give before December 31 to make your impact count.

Scheduled Maintenance

Our ticketing system will be down from 5/1/25 at 9:00 PM through 5/2/2025 at 6:00 AM.

We apologize for any inconvenience and appreciate your patience.

Help Us Reach $250,000 by December 31

Your gift to the Phoenix Symphony keeps music alive — from powerful performances and education programs to hospice bedside visits that bring comfort and connection when words fail. Give today and help us reach our $250,000 year-end goal before midnight, December 31.