Getting Buzzed on High Ticket Sales

It's no secret the economy is wreaking havoc on arts organizations across the country. Belts are being tightened, programs trimmed, donations are down, and many groups are struggling to attract audiences.

But here in Phoenix and the greater Valley of the Sun, audiences are flocking to Phoenix Symphony performances in record numbers. Virginia G. Piper Music Director Michael Christie and the orchestra members are so appreciate for the support of the community, that they have decided to present something special at each of The Phoenix Symphony's April Classics concerts that achieves its ticket goal. Here's the word from Michael Christie:

"We want to embrace the tremendous buzz we are experiencing this spring, so we thought it would be appropriate to perform Rimsky-Korsakov’s The Flight of the Bumblebee as an encore following following the April 2-3 Rachmaninoff: Symphonic Dances concerts.. This is such a beloved, whimsical piece, perfect for spring and provides a great opportunity to showcase the orchestra’s tremendous skill and technical abilities. We will play our hearts out and let our fingers fly to show our immense gratitude to all of the people who come out to our performances to enjoy great music. Let the buzz continue!"

So join us throughout April for a great series of concerts and a showcase of audience-favorite encores! With mammoth masterworks like Rachmaninoff's Symphonic Dances, Orff's Carmina Burana and Saint-Saën’s Organ Symphony all making appearances in April, we're hoping our buzzing encore opportunities won't be too far off.

If you've been able to attend the Symphony over the last couple of months, what programs caught your eye (or ear)? Have you noticed a trend among your fellow concert-goers and seat-mates as to what they've been enjoying? Drop us a comment and let us know!