The Phoenix Symphony announced the election of three new directors to its Board at the Annual Board Meeting held in May 2026. The meeting also included recognition of several retiring Directors for their service to the organization.
David R. Green, CEO of Vitalant; Linda Little, Principal at LSP – Little Strategic Partnerships; and Adelaida V. Severson, Ph.D., CEO and Founder of Bushtex, Inc., were elected as community leaders to join The Phoenix Symphony Board of Directors. Mo Stein, Board Chair, said, “We are delighted to welcome these distinguished community leaders to The Phoenix Symphony’s Board of Directors. Each brings exceptional experience, leadership, and a deep commitment to our community. Their insight and guidance will help strengthen the Symphony as we continue to provide extraordinary musical experiences that inspire and advance our community.”
Retiring Directors recognized during the meeting include Ellen Andeen-Keller (Council Member, Town of Paradise Valley), David Bornemann (President of Bornemann Associates), Philip Cowen (Chairman of Decatur Capital Corporation), Matt Feeney (Partner at Snell & Wilmer), Max Fose (President and CEO of Fose + McKay), Doris Ong (Community Leader), and Jeff Rich (Of Counsel at Rose Law Group).
Peter Kjome, President and CEO of The Phoenix Symphony, shared his appreciation following the election: “The Phoenix Symphony is fortunate to be guided by an extraordinary Board of Directors whose leadership is essential to our success,” Kjome continued, “Our Board Members are powerful advocates for the Symphony as one of Arizona’s most important cultural assets.”
Founded in 1947, The Phoenix Symphony has played a central role in Arizona’s cultural life by performing at venues across the Valley with internationally recognized conductors and guest artists. Its Community Engagement & Education programs reach more than 100,000 Arizonans each year through school events and outreach in healthcare settings.
Internationally acclaimed conductor Paolo Bortolameolli has been appointed as the next Virginia G. Piper Music Director. He will serve as Music Director Designate during the 2026–27 season before assuming full duties in 2027–28.
