The Phoenix Symphony will rev its musical engines and shift into a new gear to celebrate the 50th Anniversary of Phoenix International Raceway in a creative collaboration that mixes great music, classic cars and people who love both with a special performance entitled ‘The Sound of Speed.’ This groundbreaking event marks a new level in the confluence of music and sports with this first of its kind collision between the NASCAR and the orchestral worlds.

“We are thrilled to partner with The Phoenix Symphony for this truly one-of-a-kind event,” said PIR President Bryan R. Sperber.

“Our 50th Anniversary is an opportunity to celebrate the great moments in racing history, and pairing those memories with a powerful score will create an experience that race fans and music lovers everywhere will enjoy.”

To commemorate PIR’s Golden Anniversary, the musical selection and festivities will be centered around cars and racing. Guests at the event will be greeted by a spectacular ‘Pit Road’ entry statement showcasing several classic race cars along 3rd Street. The ‘Pit Road’ experience is being hosted courtesy of Barrett-Jackson Auction Company CEO Craig Jackson.

“This first-ever event brings together two of America’s greatest pastimes and two of our city’s great cultural and entertainment icons,” said Jim Ward, President and CEO of The Phoenix Symphony. “Audiences are in for a high octane evening of fun in this community celebration.”

Once the party goes inside, guests will be able to experience ‘The Sound of Speed’ concert, conducted by Larry Blank. The performance will also feature appearances by NASCAR Hall of Famer Rusty Wallace as a guest conductor and ‘The Dukes of Hazzard’ star Tom Wopat.

“I am honored to serve as the guest conductor for ‘The Sound of Speed’ and to be a part of Phoenix International Raceway’s 50th anniversary celebration,” added Wallace. “I’ve always been a fan of great music, and obviously I’ve spent my life in racing. Combining the amazing talents of The Phoenix Symphony with the scenes from of some of the greatest racing movies ever produced is going to make this a truly unforgettable night.”

This one night only special event will be held November 6, 2014 at Symphony Hall. For more information on tickets and sponsorships visit http://www.phoenixsymphony.org/events/2014-sound-of-speed or call The Phoenix Symphony Box Office at 602-495-1999.