I love the symphony! I may listen to 101.1 etc, but there is nothing like listening and watching musicians with their instruments come together making a beautiful thing! There is a nice calendar of events coming up. If you feel a need to add some culture to your life, this is a fantastic way to do so! Symphony Hall offers comfortable and clean seats. The ushers are friendly offering help finding your seating, beverage/snacks and other services that might be needed. Restrooms seem to be clean and somewhat well maintained. The acoustics are good allowing the sound to be clear and audible. I will return, hopefully soon, to hear yet another great concert. read more

I am in love with the Phoenix Symphony! I have seen two concerts performed by the Phoenix Symphony so far and I cannot wait to see more. Most recently, my husband and I watched the Nutcracker. We purchased the "cheap seats," which were still pricey. We arrived 15 minutes late (tacky, I know). This stunt ended up being a blessing in disguise. Since we were late the usher told us we had to sit in the balcony until intermission so that we would not disrupt the show by entering through the main doors. There were only a handful of people in the balcony so we pretty much got our pick of seats. The orchestra was down in the pit (correct term? Dunno.) and we could actually see the full orchestra from that angle. It was like panorama view! At intermission we went to find our actual seats, but we were turned off by how crowded it was. Plus, our seats were in the second to last row which wasn't exactly a primo spot. Mind you, Symphony Hall is not that big so there really isn't a bad seat. We decided that the balcony was better for us so we made our way back upstairs. The previous concert we experienced was with Broadway singer, Cheyenne Jackson. These seats were complimentary from the Phoenix Symphony via our apartment management. On this occasion the orchestra was directly on stage backing up the singer. This was a more intimate set up, whereas The Nutcracker was more grand. The Phoenix Symphony is a great way to sneak in a little culture and to experience one of the treasures of downtown Phoenix. read more

Had a great night out with my wife and another couple. It was our first time to the Phoenix Symphony. The seats we had were great in the middle about 13 rows back. The attendants were very helpful on getting all of seated on time. We arrived about 20 minutes early. We enjoyed refreshments in the lobby and then were able to listen and see the wonderful performance. The sound is good the seats were comfortable and program was easy to follow. Parking was easy and I find we chose to Uber there was was all very reasonable after we had had a lovely dinner prior to. Look forward to going back soon read more

We saw the Phoenix Symphony with the Phoenix Chorus perform Beethoven's 9th symphony, along with Julia Perry's contemporary short Piece for Orchestra, and Toccata Festival, Opus 36, by Samuel Barber. This concert was like a breath of fresh air! Absolutely marvelous. This has been our first time at Symphony Hall and we quickly realized it is a fantastic venue. The auditorium is just the right size without a bad seat in the house. When I saw the design of the stage, I suspected great acoustics and I wasn't disappointed. This auditorium rivals Carnegie Hall's level of acoustics! The Julia Perry piece has the double basses playing pianissimo right before the fortissimo climax at the end. We could hear every note! The piece, on the whole, was interesting and varied in dynamics and style. It's not what I would call avant-garde in an experimental way, but rather an enjoyable composition which was written to please rather than to challenge the audience! The Toccata Festival piece was disappointing but somewhat saved by the skilled hands (and feet!) of the organist, Paul Jacobs. The audience approval was, I believe, more for Mr. Jacobs than the piece itself. We were treated to an organ solo by Mr. Jacobs which confirmed his command of playing complexed lines on two manuals and the pedalboard simultaneously! This was well appreciated by the audience with a long ovation and several hoots and hollers! The Ninth Symphony was performed with articulation and volume one should expect from a world-renowned, famous piece of music. The symphony came though as maestro Muñoz guided them--and the chorus--with passion and energy. The cello, violin, and viola players I could see clearly seemed to be having fun with their parts as they moved to the music. Perhaps not worth mentioning, but I twice heard a stand-out "flub" in the horn section, and at a time during the second movement the woodwinds, especial the flute, was too loud; they overtook the violins a couple of times on that 3-note motif. The tympani were accurate both in timing and volume. Julie Adams, solo soprano, and Garrett Sorenson, tenor, stood out as master vocalists. The mezzo-soprano was of no particular consequence and the baritone was weak and looked like he wanted to be somewhere else. Overall, it was a great concert. I'm sorry, but sometimes great performances don't inclued 100% of the participants. read more

The concerts are always outstanding. This is a great ensemble with a variety of musical offerings and conductors. I always enjoy myself and have a great time. No seat is a bad seat. read more

Phoenix Symphony - Performing Arts Near Me - Phoenix, Arizona

I can't believe I haven't written a review for the Phoenix Symphony since I've been a regular here for the last 3 years! I've brought my son here to see the Nutcracker performed by the AZ Ballet since he was two. And we're season subscribers to the Phoenix Symphony Family Series for the last two years. We have tickets in the Orchestra section so my son who is 5 can see all the musicians up close and personal to keep his attention. I love how they add a little kid friendly entertainment and/or performance to each concert to make it fun for the little ones. Also love the family activities an hour prior to start of concert. While there is no dress code, it's always nice to use this occasion to dress up my son a little so he knows we are going to some place special. read more

Not only are we fortunate to have outstanding musicians who treat us to a variety of choices at great prices, the Phoenix Symphony also emails and phones to warn of potential traffic delays, parking, etc. due to events such as ComicFest this weekend. Appreciate the exceptional treatment, like having mom looking out so you don't miss a moment of the performance. read more

This place was beautiful! We came here for the Phoenix Symphony's Holiday Pop concert and they really decked out the lobby with their holiday decor! There is a parking garage right next to the symphony hall that takes you directly to the lobby. The ushers were so helpful with finding our seats. Bathrooms were clean and had many stalls. The stage was beautiful and we had great views from our seats. The Phoenix Symphony orchestra gave a phenomenal performance! One thing I recommend is for them to have staff available to wheelchair some patrons to their seats. There was an elderly woman who could barely walk and she fell right behind me. However, she still had to get up to keep walking to her seat. Broke my heart. read more

Phoenix Symphony - Performing Arts Near Me - Phoenix, Arizona

My husband and I had an amazing time here. We went to see the Nightmare Before Christmas with our family, and had a blast. The prices are so reasonable, we had dinner beforehand luckily because they don't sell food! Only alcohol and water. All of the staff was friendly, the symphony was absolutely amazing, such a great experience. They have so many shows coming up, I would recommend experiencing this. I think they have Mamma Mia, The Phantom of the Opera, Star Wars episode one, etc. read more

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The Music of Led Zeppelin concert was absolutely amazing. A very talented group of musicians lead by vocalist Randy Jackson and conductor Brent Havens were great - but backed by the Phoenix Symphony it just fill out the sound like I've never heard before. They were extremely engaging with the audience, making it a really fun night that seemed to be over all too soon. I only hesitate to write such a good review, as I want to make sure I can get good tickets next year - I highly recommend this show for any music lover. read more

I paid $210 for a performance scheduled in late April for a Chaplin performance and live in California, entailing a 600 mile R/T to the venue. Obviously with the coronavirus I cannot attend, but Phoenix Symphony refuses to refund my money! On their website, I have the option of exchanging my tickets or DONATING my ticket. This is unacceptable! This is frankly nothing but theft. Refund my money! read more

This concert of West Side Story was absolutely wonderful. I wanted to see it again, and I wish I could purchase a recording of it. It was the best Tony I've ever heard. read more

Lovely venue! Every seat in the house is great! I saw a matinee performance of the Nutcracker here and loved every minute!

Phoenix bills itself as the fifth-largest city in the country, but this is not a major metro symphony. It's a hometown orchestra. It means well, it's friendly, I'm sure everyone there's very supportive of each other, everything happening onstage will get a standing O, but if you're looking for something serious in the music, this is not your place, and you'll feel seriously ripped off by the ticket prices. (As I do. Local symphonies are great, but they've got no business charging major-symphony money.) Take as a warning this overheard-in-the-lobby: Him: [something about how they could probably do without the conductor] Her: Oh, no! He has a real function there. He, you know, keeps time. read more

I attended the Sibelius and Debussy concert on January 26th, 2018. It was my first time being to a symphony and it was fun. Everyone was dressed up and fancy, so I felt like they could tell that I was a mere commoner. The ceiling was high, there were lounges, cocktail bars, and fancy bathrooms. The show itself was incredible, but as expected some pieces lasted very long. I am not a true fan of Sibelius or Debussy as I prefer Chopin, Brahms, or Tchaikovsky, so that may have been the reason. Also, the concert lasted about 2 hours and I nearly fell asleep during it as I usually sleep at 8pm. I got a free cookie for some reason, which was amazing. My closing words should be what the conductor said during the concert when describing a piece: "a lovely tone poem" read more

I'd love to give all five stars, but there were a couple of issues that affected our enjoyment of the otherwise spectacular evening. I got free Culture Pass tickets, so I thought we could save money. Wrong! Just to make sure all would be copacetic, ahead of time I made four phone calls to the Symphony and to Phoenix Parking, and nobody knew anything. When there is someone in a party who has an ADA hang-tag or license plate, that party should be able to park up close without an extra charge. Yet the parking bill was $40 plus tip for valet parking at a hotel 2/10 of a mile away -- too far for the disabled to have to walk. And then walk back at the end of the night. I was embarrassed. Shame on the City of Phoenix for charging for parking even on evenings, weekends, and weekend evenings, until AFTER the Symphony lets out. And not even making available the information of how much the parking meters are near Symphony Hall! What, they think people aren't interested in that? The other problem was the Symphony Hall lavatories. In the ladies' room, water shoots out of the sink faucets under force at a high rate of speed and splashes all over everything and everybody. It's like someone's not paying attention... people wear their best to the Symphony. It's a legendary place for dressing to the nines. So people go there dressed to a T to see and be seen. They drink some booze, on sale right there. Then they use the restroom, and when they turn on the water to wash their hands, water goes all over their fine fabrics, their makeup, hits their eyeglasses, their watch, maybe their well-coiffed hair. Now, that's just ignorant. Dressy fabrics should not get wet. It's bad for them. If the Powers that Be would address these salient issues that we found painfully pertinent, I would be willing to return, perhaps even -- gasp! -- if I have to PAY for my ticket, perish the thought! Because the workman is worthy of his hire. But I'm not going back to be treated like this again. I haven't had these problems in other cities. The North Valley Symphony Orchestra has tickets for $5, and the music is just as good, in my opinion. And their venue is not annoying. read more

We always go to the Matinee programs and find the ease of driving into downtown Phoenix, finding parking (we always use our ParkWhiz App = www.parkwhiz.com) is so very easy and convenient! The Phoenix Symphony is really very good and their programming is top-notch! Very special event. read more

Not a classical music lover? I'm not sure I am either, but I LOVE the Phoenix Symphony. The Phoenix Symphony has so much more than the classical genre. I've been to several shows with lyricists -- in fact, they've even done small productions of musicals (like Oliver and My Fair Lady). It's like you'd expect for any other musical except the "orchestra" is on the stage instead of tucked below! This season I'm looking forward to a cirque show and a few evenings of classic rock (Journey, Bowie and the Stones)! Plus, I love that I can actually hear here. The acoustics are great, as opposed to some other Valley venues. I have a feeling this is all part of their plan, but: I've enjoyed everything so much I'm tempted to try out one of the classical music shows. Kudos to them! It's working! read more

What a mixed bag. The place is clean and pretty, very pleasantly located downtown with several dining venues around. The bar is reasonably priced for downtown, although they supply a limited offering. Bartenders were patient and professional. The chairs, however, are uncomfortably small. There is an overpriced boutique, where you can spend $90 on a 9" bust of Beethoven, or $10 on a music box's innards probably mass produced by the sweat of children in China listening to Beethoven while they work. Hey, it's your money, do what you want. We were there for opening weekend to hear Beethoven's 5th. Let me say that technically speaking, the musicians and conductor were simply fantastic and flawless. I have perfect pitch and I didn't flinch once. I did not like that we were subjected to an opening piece of modern noise that has no other legitimate category than 'music' that was composed by the conductor's long time friend since they were kids. It was called "Remnants" I believe, and it was supposed to be the dialogue of 2 gongs. What it reminded me of was this time my kids ran through a kitsch store and crashed liberally into some wind chimes. It was dreadful that somebody performed this with an orchestra purposefully, and I took the time to reflect on my past sins and how I might atone for them to avoid further karmic punishment. I learned quickly that, while I am a patient person who loves classical music, the symphony is not for me. Several times I dozed off when the more melodic pieces began. Then I found myself giggling uncontrollably at the woman sitting in front of me. She appeared as a cross between a frustrated librarian and a cockatiel; she furiously snapped her head and beamed a death glare at people who cleared their throat, or dropped coins on the floor, or silently used their cell phones...I did not commit any of these atrocities, but I did sing part of the National Anthem which she killed me quickly with her gaze for doing. So, I'm sadly not a member of society; I will live my life out as most pariahs, gorging on Three Musketeer bars as I drive my used Toyota, listening to Beethoven on my factory issued stereo. read more

Your website ticket ordering facility really needs attention. The fact that my mailing address and my billing address are different should not stop me from purchasing. One of your associates was able to help me over the phone, but it took a long time. And still I was charged a $12 "convenience fee". This is not professional. read more

Great interior, fabulous decorations and beyond kind and nice service. This place is well-kept in all aspects and leads to an enjoyable experience. The location is presentable as well and overall is a nice destination to travel to if you are in Arizona, especially the downtown area. 9/10 on all factors. read more

Was lucky enough to attend a musical event with a friend down at the Phoenix Symphony, this wasn't my 1st time to the Symphony hall and I was excited for the event. Phoenix Symphony is a beautiful building, from the lobby to the inside, even in the details, the molding, the lights, just a beautify building to look at. And it is home to Phoenix Symphony, Arizona Opera and Ballet Arizona and is one of Phoenix Points of Pride. Phoenix Symphony can seat 2300 or so but honestly I don't believe there is a bad seat in the house, the sound is clear and you can see the stage well from any spot. I've have enjoy the shows I have seen their, from operas, to classical music, to ballets, always a great time. There is always plenty going on at Phoenix Symphony Hall, https://www.phoenixsymphony.org/ go check out a show, you won't be disappointed! read more

We attended today's matinee of the Holiday Pops Concert. It was a wonderful way to get into the spirit of the season. We haven't been to a Phoenix Symphony concert in several years, but they are still an amazing group. The addition of their Chorus made this holiday event even more entertaining. Santa even made an appearance. The guest conductor, Scott Terrell, was very personable, and did a great job relating to the audience as well as the large group of musicians on stage. Highly recommend to anyone looking for something Christmassy to do. www.scottaterrell.com @bjdavis read more

We saw Holiday Pops at The Phoenix Symphony on Saturday night. Bravo for an awesome performance. We loved it - Great way to kick off the season - tons of fun ! read more

I'm not sure someone who is tone deaf has any business reviewing the Phoenix Symphony, but here is my unqualified take on it minus any technical critique. It's something everyone should go to at least once, even if you think it's not for you. And don't buy into the tales of these evildoers that wander around Yelp complaining there is no culture in Phoenix. The musicians are talented, at least in this tone-deaf Yelper's humble opinion. We've gone to a few performances. The Mr. prefers the Classical series which is enjoyable even if sometimes I want to take a nap. I prefer the Pop series. And mixed in with this are a variety of holiday performances (the Hocus Pocus Halloween performance was really entertaining!) On the plate for next Spring...an Elvis tribute. Yep, I'll be there. Also Simon & Garfunkel and McCartney/Beatles tributes, and music from the 30's & 40's. Now between all that and the Classical stuff, there really is something for everyone. Also, I'm on their mailing list and recently got a 48% off if you purchased tickets within 48 hours for Hocus Pocus. I love a good deal! One final note. One of the musicians has an assist dog who is darn cute and had a pumpkin cape on last time. How can you say no to that? read more

This place was beautiful! Definitely want to come back. The way the room is, there is no bad seat in the house. There are TV's around the halls in case you go to the restroom or get a cocktail or your late, you won't miss a thing! read more

I am a total fan. I just began going to the Symphony on a general basis this year...already three times! All have been a great experience, and now I will pass off to you what I think about the Phoenix Symphony... ~What To Do~ Listen to sweet sweet music. The business model for the symphony is interesting. I want to quickly point out in this section that they hold concerts at numerous venues in the valley, the prime and good 80% of them being at Symphony Hall. The variety of performances is fresh, not too much of either genre or historical music eras. ~The Good~ They offer other types of events that you simply don't expect. I saw South Pacific in both a significantly stripped down play format, accompanied by the Symphony itself, was truly exciting to see such a different performance. It makes me into a real music buff, and I truly enjoy sitting back and listening to the great vibes and sounds these amazing musicians provide. The site itself is very pretty and classically done up, and as always, the location is perfectly situated right by numerous restaurants you can stop by at. But once again, before I go further, they are a complete symphony offering all the different types of music, including newer acts which you would usually see in other formats. Its comprehensive music viewing! ~The Bad~ Not too much. The prices are as is, can't whine about them when the music is top notch quality. They have to make their money somehow. But being as is, prices do scare me away a bit. That's OK. The drink stations are also a bit expensive, and they barely give you anything. I always thought they could extend the food options further to light o'dourves and such...nothing too much. Honestly I am being picky at this point, really not much to be upset about. ~The Down Low~ If you are interested in having a sweet date night or simply looking to tickle your eardrums with outstanding ear vibes, come here. Its a chance to get dressed up as well. They get 4 stars for variety of acts, a wonderful facility, proximity to restaurants, and the unique special events they put on. Enjoy the sound of music! read more

My husband and I had such a great experience. It was our first time at the Phoenix Symphony and we attended the live score of The Nightmare Before Christmas. The orchestra was brilliant and the entire show was very well executed. We are planning on our next visit soon. read more

Simply outstanding. A "don't miss" venue. A treat for new and seasoned symphony/music lovers. Bravo

Recently purchased tickets to one of the Harry Potter in concert shows. Specifically Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire. This was my very first movie in concert experience. WOW! It was absolutely amazing. We sat in the 6th row center balcony. We had a perfect view of both the screen and orchestra. I was in awe of the musical performance seamlessly played along with the motion picture. It was so much fun to laugh, cheer, and cry with fellow fans during our favorite parts. It was truly unlike anything I have experienced before. I can't stop raving about it. I will definitely be coming back for more! read more

My BF got us tickets with the best intentions. He thought it would be a great excuse to doll up. BUT I think we went overboard. When we got there it felt like were the only ones that dolled up. =( Lots of stuck up older women. Felt like a scene from pretty woman... UGH.... I didn't think I looked like a hooker at all but when in the elevator I questioned my outfit. *** I should have worn nylons or slacks lol*** cause obviously a peplum pencil skirt and a silk blouse made me look like a whore!! We spent the whole day driving so when we saw the concert.....the beautiful music got us so SLEEPY... we ended up leaving early. =( We promised to each other that we will come back in 15 years!! read more

This was our first time at the symphony and it was so fun! We saw Nightmare Before Christmas on Nov 2nd. What a cool experience! The staff was helpful and performance was great. We will definitely go back. Our seats were in the balcony, 2nd row, last two. We had a couple of kids that were wiggle worms (flopping the seats up and down, kicking my leg repeatedly) and the parents didn't say much so at the intermission we went to the box office and asked if we could be moved-they did it no questions asked! Again, great experience and we will be returning! read more

Absolutely incredible! Can't wait to see them again. It had been a while since I've seen a symphony live and I had forgotten how rich and amazing it sounds. They truly are a professional group of artists. read more

Culture! Now I have had my cultural experiences in my past, and it has made me stand a little more upright and eat more with utensils. With that said, I have reached an all time high, or low (to some), by going to the Nutcracker with my GF. As I entered the Phoenix Symphony I had to wind my way thru little girls in poofy dresses and lost men with their girlfriends. The entrance is somewhat plain, but once you enter the hall you feel like you blew it by not wearing your ascot. Needless to say I was very entertained by the Nutcracker and the Ballet Dancers and Symphony were fantastic. I am very surprised that little girls don't get creeped out by the Nutcracker guy. I see that thing come to life and I'm running! Oh yeah, now I know what the hell a Sugar Plum Fairy is too!!! read more

Love coming here with other students, teachers, or just on a date night! When I met my fiancee I was more excited to come and see his mentor, John Ebinger the bassist. I was lucky enough to watch Michael Christie before he left his tenure with the Phoenix Symphony Orchestra. We were very lucky to have him for eight years. I cannot recommend highly enough the Pops series for a bit of fun with the family or friends. The orchestra plays almost 200 concerts every year, so there is always a ton of concerts to choose from. They offer a regular series of Classics, Symphony Pops, Chamber Orchestra, and Family offerings. They also celebrate the holidays with special events and community celebrations. I get tickets for free from my honors program, but they offer a college club program where you can attend unlimited Classic concerts for only $30! They also offer a special price of $11.50 one hour prior to performance (excludes special event/family concerts) for students with ID, and 25% off for seniors. Teachers get 50% off any ticket! Yay! Dress: This is America so you can pretty much do what you want in terms of dress, however, I prefer to dress formally when I go to the symphony, it makes the experience for me. You can dress business casual and feel quite comfortable, though I usually notice that people dress up when they come (conservatively, not Jennifer Lopez navel baring, Versace dress wearing). When to clap: look at the conductor's arms, are they down? Good, more than likely the piece is over and you may clap your little heart out. It's always amusing to see people go crazy in the middle of a piece. Woooo! You conduct you little conductee! Come ahead of time to attend the pre-concert chats before every Symphony Classics, and Coffee Classics concerts, where members of the audience get to interview guest artists, and members of the orchestra! Allow time for parking, the main entrance and will-call window is located on the West side of the building. They have a full bar, including coffee and tea if you choose to imbibe before, during, or after the concert. There are so many restaurants to choose from in the CityScape area. read more

Love, love, love this orchestra. Brought my Mom and she will be moving here and we will most likely become subscribers. She really appreciates the accessible seating. read more

My friend and I had such an amazing time at the Symphony. We saw Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban and were blown away by how much the live music brought to the show. It was an unforgettable experience and I can't wait to attend again in the future!! read more

Fabulous music great venue and always new entertaining and a good variety of talent that visits our Phoenix Symphony.

Attended the Steve Lippia concert last night. Steve and the symphony were fantastic. Can't wait to attend another concert.

We visited from out of town (Detroit) where we have an excellent symphony. I still think Detroit is a higher level but this was a great event and so much fun. The guest conductor was fantastic and made it a fun evening. It was movie and TV blockbusters and the entire event was enjoyable and great for our young teens. Friendly ushers and a nice venue with comfortable seating. read more