The Phoenix Symphony to suspend 2026–27 season due to financial shortfall

The Phoenix Symphony has announced it will suspend its 2026–27 season following its November 1 performance. The decision, made by the Board of Directors and executive leadership, stems from a lack of financial resources to meet immediate obligations and ongoing operating deficits.

Despite a revenue increase of over 50 percent between fiscal years 2024 and 2026, the organization cited rising essential costs and a shortfall in philanthropic contributions for the current fiscal year. While the orchestra launched a $60 million fundraising and endowment campaign titled ‘CRESCENDO’ in April 2025 and implemented approximately $766,000 in administrative expense reductions, these measures were insufficient to close the gap.

Musician layoffs are scheduled to take effect on November 2. The Symphony clarified that the season is being suspended rather than canceled, with the goal of reopening as soon as possible. During the hiatus, leadership will evaluate operating costs, revenue assumptions, and fundraising needs to determine the conditions required for a sustainable return. A financial recovery plan will be shared publicly once available.