On Saturday September 28th The Phoenix Symphony hosted a Benefit Concert Conducted by John Williams with Special Guest Steven Spielberg. This one-night-only performance was a fundraiser that combined two Hollywood titans, iconic music scores and a selection of unforgettable film clips in order to benefit The Phoenix Symphony’s Education and Community Engagement programs.
This special evening began with a pre-concert reception for Sponsors and VIPs held in the Green Room at Symphony Hall. The private reception featured cocktails, hors d’oeuvres and was attended by 150 event sponsors, VIP’s and members of The Phoenix Symphony Board of Directors.
After the reception, over 2,200 attendees entered a sold-out Symphony Hall for an unforgettable evening of music from the movies. The concert featured selections from some of Williams’ most popular scores including Star Wars, Harry Potter, Jaws, Schindler’s List, and much more. This special concert also showcased Steven Spielberg presenting the magic of music and cinema along with a selection of film clips projected over the orchestra with clips from Close Encounters of the Third Kind and Indiana Jones. The concert ended with an encore of the theme to Indiana Jones and a triple standing ovation for Maestro Williams, Steven Spielberg, and The Phoenix Symphony.
The evening concluded with an exclusive post-concert VIP Meet & Greet for 50 people. Champagne and desserts were served as the guests relived and reveled in the magical performance and presentation. Maestro Williams and Mr. Spielberg joined the reception where they greeted attendees, posed for photographs and signed autographs.
“What an honor to have such an incredible benefit concert with two of the biggest names from Hollywood Maestro John Williams and legendary film director Steven Spielberg,” said Jim Ward, President and CEO of The Phoenix Symphony. “My sincere thanks to our special guests for donating their time and tremendous talent and to our event sponsors for demonstrating a commitment to music education.”
