Natalie Wilson
natalie@mcraeagency.com
214.799.3055
PHOENIX (May 6, 2026) — Reflecting widespread support for nonprofit The Phoenix Symphony’s initiatives to expand access to classical music experiences, approximately 400 community members attended The Symphony’s anticipated inaugural “Symphony on Exeter: An Amazing Arcadia Night” on April 28 in Scottsdale. Families and community members across a wide age range enjoyed this free outdoor concert featuring 10 of the Symphony’s world-class brass musicians performing iconic film scores, including Disney favorites and the beloved music of John Williams, renowned composer of legendary films such as “Star Wars” and “Indiana Jones.”
“We’re thrilled to see our community come together for a vibrant night with The Phoenix Symphony, set against the backdrop of an Arizona sunset in such a beautiful, welcoming setting,” said Peter Kjome, president and CEO. “When audiences of all ages connect with familiar, beloved live music in an outdoor setting, it creates a lasting impact, and we look forward to experiencing this again together.”
Many attendees relaxed on blankets and in lawn chairs, sampling provided refreshments as well as food and beverages they brought themselves. The event also included spirited presentations by event hosts Jason Rose and Jessica Pacheco, both prominent business owners and community leaders. The event was also underwritten by the hosts.
“We thought ‘Symphony on Exeter’ could be a wonderfully creative event in the heart of Arcadia. And after seeing the huge turnout and terrific enthusiasm there is little doubt it was,” Rose and Pacheco said. “The Phoenix Symphony is to be applauded for its community engagement and civic innovation. We hope other neighborhoods, causes and community leaders will consider similar initiatives with the Symphony because it will bring joy to attendees and awareness and financial support for one of our cultural crown jewels.”
The event further featured inspiring remarks from Paradise Valley Mayor Mark Stanton and Julie Pace, Paradise Valley Town Council member and co-chair of the Symphony’s Crescendo Campaign. They discussed the importance of The Phoenix Symphony as Arizona’s only professional symphony orchestra and the state’s largest performing group. They also highlighted how the nonprofit serves as a critical cultural resource, enriching the community with world-class performances and outreach initiatives impacting diverse community members statewide. They further emphasized the importance of community support for these initiatives, especially through the Crescendo endowment campaign targeting to expand the nonprofit’s programs and secure its financial stability for many years to come.
Community members can support the Symphony’s valuable efforts in three ways:
Donors can provide support in many forms, including online gifts, stock donations and leaving a legacy by including the Symphony in their estate planning.
This event was made possible through Pace’s dedicated leadership in bringing the evening together, as well as Rose and Pacheco’s valuable roles in hosting the event.
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About The Phoenix Symphony
The Phoenix Symphony has been at the center of Arizona’s cultural life since 1947, performing at Symphony Hall and across the Valley with some of the world’s finest conductors and guest artists. Its exceptional musicians and broad array of programs enrich the lives of thousands of people each year, thanks to enthusiastic audiences and the generous support of individuals, foundation, and corporate donors.
In addition to performances, the Symphony’s Community Engagement & Education programs bring the power of music to more than 100,000 Arizonans each year, creating meaningful musical experiences for young people from field trips and school assemblies to master classes, STEM lessons, and more. Symphony musicians also reach individuals in a variety of community, social service, healthcare and shelter settings, including memory care and hospice.
With the appointment of internationally acclaimed conductor Paolo Bortolameolli as the Symphony’s next Virginia G. Piper Music Director, The Phoenix Symphony enters a bold new chapter. Bortolameolli will serve as Music Director Designate during the 2026–27 season and become the Virginia G. Piper Music Director beginning with the 2027–28 season.
To learn more, visit phoenixsymphony.org.