Staff Reports | Happenings & Events
Approximately 400 residents attended the Phoenix Symphony’s inaugural “Symphony on Exeter: An Amazing Arcadia Night” on April 28 in Scottsdale, reflecting community interest in expanded access to classical music.
Families and attendees of varying ages gathered for the free outdoor concert, which featured 10 brass musicians from the Phoenix Symphony performing film scores, including selections from Disney and music by composer John Williams, known for 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,” Peter Kjome, president and CEO, said. “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.”
Attendees sat on blankets and lawn chairs while enjoying refreshments and food brought to the event. The program also included remarks from event hosts Jason Rose and Jessica Pacheco, who helped underwrite the event.
“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,” Mr. Rose and Ms. 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 also included remarks from Paradise Valley Mayor Mark Stanton and Julie Pace, a Paradise Valley Town Council member and co-chair of the Symphony’s Crescendo Campaign. They discussed the role of the Phoenix Symphony as Arizona’s professional symphony orchestra and one of the state’s largest performing arts organizations.
Speakers also highlighted ongoing efforts to expand community programming and support long-term financial stability through the Crescendo endowment campaign.
