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| - I've been looking forward to going to the Phoenix Symphony, and this week I was fortunate to see Star Wars vs Star Trek, with Richard Kaufman, conductor.
PHOENIX SYMPHONY
As a major United States symphony orchestra based out of Phoenix, Arizona, the Phoenix Symphony is regarded as the most cherished musical organization in all of Arizona.
Based in the Phoenix Symphony Hall, which officially opened in 1972 followed by a renovation in 2005, the venue is able to seat 2,312 patrons per time.
With a 76-member ensemble, the symphony is Arizona's only full-time, professional orchestra, operating on an annual budget of more than $8 million per year.
To assuage costs, ticket sales, corporate contributes, and public funding through the Arizona Commission on the Arts, the National Endowment for the Arts, and the City of Phoenix's Office of Arts and Culture help out as well.
PHOENIX SYMPHONY (THEN)
Founded in 1947 when Phoenix had a tiny population of just 100,000, the orchestra at the time was just a group of part time musicians performing a few concerts per year.
Today, however, the orchestra puts on shows before 300,000 ticketholders and music advocates each year, with over 275 concerts and presentations alone taking place between September and May.
Through history, the following musical directors have helped shape the Phoenix Symphony known and loved today: John Barnett, Robert Lawrence, Leslie Hodge, Guy Taylor, Philip Spurgeon, Eduardo Mata, Theo Alcantara, James Sedares, Hermann Michael, Michael Christie, with Tito Muñoz serving as the acting director right now.
PHOENIX SYMPHONY (NOW)
The symphony travels around Phoenix to offer classical and pop concerts, as well as symphonic presentations in Scottsdale, Mesa, Prescott, and other central Arizona locations.
Working hard to incorporate a community outreach component, the symphony performs annually for more than 70,000 students, coming from 265 different schools.
This Arizona symphony featured significant classical names, including Mstislav Rostropovish, Shlomo Mintz, Emanuel Ax, Van Cliburn, James Galway, Horacio Gutierrez, Yo-Yo Ma, Midori, Isaac Stern, and the list goes on.
MISSION STATEMENT
"To provide the joy of music as a catalyst in helping Arizona to become the best place in America to work, live, and do business."
In order to accomplish their mission, the symphony creates high quality, creative musical experiences that nourish the souls of those in attendance.
Through coordinated events and outreach efforts, they also work to bolster the cultural economy and create a newer generation of individuals that are passionate about music and the community they live in.
THE EXPERIENCE
My seat tickets were at will call, which I received without a hitch. There were many gift booths, and a full bar available too. All of the staff was friendly and accommodating.
The production included 8 Star Wars selections from 51 time Academy Award nominated composer, John Williams, and 5 Star Trek selections, including the Star Trek Suite by composer Michael Giacchino.
The highlight was half way through the show, they had audience participation, were an audience member came up to give the iconic Star Trek opening "To Boldly Go Where No Man Has Gone Before" speech accompanied by the symphony. It was outstanding.
They received a standing ovation, and there was a lovely encore.
My only complaint was that it seemed like that although the conductor, Mr. Kaufman, was putting is heart into it, the members of the symphony couldn't wait to leave. They probably have preformed this so many times, but for most of us, it was our first time. I wished they got into it as much as we did.
CONCLUSION
The Phoenix Symphony was awe inspiring. The venue is simple, but lovely. The staff is very friendly. They definitely lived up to their mission statement.
If you get the chance, consider attending an award-winning Phoenix Symphony performance this year.
5/5 RECOMMEND
OF NOTE
*This week/weekend is busy in downtown Phoenix, as it is host to several event, including the Comic Fest.
*Parking is best in parking garage. Light rail stops directly in front as well. Drop off is the easiest.
*For more information: phoenixsymphony.org
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