Why are the musicians wearing yellow pins?
The Valley of the Sun deserves a great full time orchestra. Our yellow pins are an expression of support for the musicians, and that we are not going anywhere.
Is the Phoenix Symphony “out of money?”
Our management has incurred a $2.8 million debt, but we are not bankrupt. This decision by our board was unnecessary and irresponsible.
When did you find out about the suspension and layoffs?
At the same time as the public, less than two weeks before we will all lose our paycheck. We also have not received communication about our benefits, and our stage crew and staff has not been advised as to whether they will still be employed on November 2. We have received no personal communication from management - nothing more than the announcement that was made to the public.
Why is this happening? Because of ticket sales?
We are just as dismayed and confused as the public. This is not due to ticket sales or a lack of interest in our art from the Phoenix community - our ticket sales were going up. Our community support was increasing. Our orchestra has never sounded better or had a better artistic output. We just hired a new Music Director and a new Principal Pops conductor. Artistically, this orchestra is thriving. This was an incredibly poorly thought out plan from the board and has broad implications not only to those musicians and staff members directly affected, but also to the Phoenix performing arts community, the arts community as a whole and the arts across the entire state of Arizona.
How can I support the musicians?
We will be accepting donations soon for emergency aid for all unemployed musicians. Please keep an eye out on this website and on our social media for updates. If you have a specific question or way in which you would like to support us, please email phoenixsymphonyoc@gmail.com.