Phoenix Symphony

Founded in 1947, the orchestra began as an occasional group of amateur musicians performing four concerts each year, with John Manley Barnett as its first music director, from 1947 to 1948.

In subsequent years, music faculty from Arizona State University joined the ensemble, which attained part-time status.

[1][2] During the music directorship of James Sedares, from 1989 to 1995, the orchestra recorded commercially for KOCH International Classics.

[3] Hermann Michael was principal guest conductor and artistic adviser of the orchestra for two seasons, and then its music director from 1997 to 2004.

In January 2023, the orchestra announced the appointment of Peter Kjome as its next president and chief executive officer, effective 1 February 2023.