Phoenix Symphony to Resume Performances After Unpaid Week

The Phoenix Symphony is preparing to resume its performance schedule next week following a brief suspension of its 2026-27 season.

According to a report from FOX 10 Phoenix, the organization is moving to restart operations after mounting financial pressures forced the board to put the season on hold last month.

Sixty-six musicians went without pay for one week beginning Nov. 2. While the immediate crisis has led to a plan for resuming performances, the underlying economic instability remains a central concern for the ensemble.

Phoenix Symphony Halts Performances Amid $10M Shortfall

Payments to the musicians are expected to resume on Nov. 9, with the expectation that they will be paid through the end of the year. This temporary relief follows a period of financial strain that nearly halted the symphony's operations.

Internal records from the Phoenix Symphony indicate that the organization held more than $8 million in net assets at the end of 2022. However, since that time, operating costs have consistently outpaced revenues and donation levels, which has steadily drained the organization’s cash reserves.

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The board of directors stated that leadership managed to reduce the current deficit by 70%. This reduction was achieved through a combination of increased fundraising efforts, cost-cutting measures, and a boost in ticket sales. Despite these actions, the board noted that donations did not meet the necessary expectations to fully stabilize the budget.

“We definitely need continued support from the community. There is still a very long road ahead, both financially but also just rebuilding trust between the musicians and particularly our board,” said Bridget Pasker, associate principal cello and orchestra committee co-chair.

Pasker noted that while the community has stepped up to support the musicians, further assistance is required to stabilize the organization and ensure the season, which runs through May, can be completed.

Phoenix Symphony to Resume Performances After Unpaid Week

The symphony remains committed to providing world-class music to the Valley as it works with the board to secure the funding required to finish the season.

To help address the immediate shortfall, a free benefit concert is scheduled for 7 p.m. on Nov. 8 at Monroe Street Abbey in downtown Phoenix. The event aims to help offset lost wages and cover the specific expenses associated with bringing the musicians back to the stage.

Pasker expressed a shared goal among all involved parties to see the organization continue its service to the community. The ability to finish the season remains contingent on the organization’s ability to bridge the gap between its current revenue and its ongoing operating costs.