Contact:
Rachel Dahl
Vice President of Marketing and Communications
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602-452-0407
PHOENIX (April 30, 2025) – The Phoenix Symphony today announced the public launch of Crescendo: The Campaign for The Phoenix Symphony, a bold $60 million comprehensive fundraising initiative designed to ensure a thriving future for symphonic music in Arizona. As the Phoenix Symphony approaches its 80th season, Crescendo stands as the Symphony’s most ambitious philanthropic initiative yet, focused on advancing artistic excellence, expanding community engagement and ensuring lasting sustainability.
“Crescendo embodies our shared vision for the Phoenix Symphony as we move together toward a bright future for our great orchestra, enriching our community today and for generations to come,” said Peter Kjome, president and CEO of The Phoenix Symphony. “Thanks to the extraordinary generosity of Jeanne Herberger and other leaders, we’ve built strong momentum, with more than $10 million already committed toward our goal.”
“The Phoenix Symphony has been a vital part of our city for nearly 80 years as a cornerstone of our community’s cultural and civic identity,” said Phoenix Mayor Kate Gallego. “The Symphony reminds us of the power of creativity to unite, heal and inspire. With the launch of the Crescendo campaign, we are investing in the spirit of Phoenix and a more connected, vibrant future for all who call this city home.”
Of the $60 million campaign goal, $40 million is designated to grow the Symphony’s endowment through Building a Lasting Legacy, which provides essential, permanent support for the orchestra’s artistic and educational mission. The remaining $20 million, under Strengthening and Expanding Our Programs, will provide vital support to sustain and grow the Symphony’s programming, education and community engagement efforts.
The campaign is guided by extraordinary leadership. Sharon and Ollie Harper and Kathleen and John Graham serve as Honorary Co-Chairs, and the Symphony is deeply grateful to Michele and Matt Feeney and Edie and Eric Bieber for their service as Campaign Chairs. Together, these seasoned philanthropic leaders are helping to shape a new era for the Symphony.
A celebratory gathering and campaign launch took place Tuesday, April 29, at Symphony Hall, marking the public debut of the campaign. The event recognized early contributors and featured remarks from Mayor Kate Gallego and other distinguished guests. During the program, it was announced that the Symphony’s “Classics Series” will be renamed the “Jeanne L. Herberger Classical Series” in recognition of Herberger’s lifelong support and transformative $4 million gift to the campaign, pledged over four years.
Over the coming months, the Symphony will share inspiring stories of impact, highlight the remarkable outcomes of donor support and invite the entire community to be part of this visionary initiative.
“Crescendo is about ensuring that future generations continue to experience the beauty, creativity and inspiration that orchestral music brings to our lives,” said Campaign Co-Chair Matt Feeney. “This campaign is an investment in the cultural vitality of our entire community.”
Campaign Co-Chair Eric Bieber adds, “Through Crescendo, we have the opportunity to sustain the Symphony’s artistic excellence, expand its reach and ensure that its transformative power continues to enrich lives across the Valley for generations.”
To learn more about Crescendo: The Campaign for The Phoenix Symphony, visit www.phoenixsymphony.org/crescendo.
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About The Phoenix Symphony
The Phoenix Symphony is one of Arizona’s largest performing arts organizations and is a vital cultural asset for the state. In addition to showcasing traditional and contemporary works at Symphony Hall and across the Valley, the Symphony’s world-class musicians actively engage with the community, supported by generous contributions from foundations, corporations, and individuals. The Symphony thrives through collaborations with acclaimed guest conductors and artists. Its core mission is to provide extraordinary musical experiences that inspire and uplift our community, enriching the lives of people of all ages and backgrounds. Each year, the orchestra reaches over 100,000 students through educational initiatives and partnerships and creates meaningful connections for tens of thousands of adults, including those experiencing homelessness, living in Alzheimer’s care facilities, and receiving treatment in hospitals and hospice care. In 2023 alone, Phoenix Symphony musicians traveled over 14,000 miles throughout Arizona, volunteering in Community Engagement and Education efforts. To learn more, please visit phoenixsymphony.org.
