From the Conductor
There are evenings when music does more than fill a hall—it shimmers, it lingers, and it reminds us why we gather at all. Our recent performance with the Palm Springs Symphony was just such an occasion: an evening of elegance, elevated by the extraordinary artistry of guest violin virtuoso Elizabeth Pitcairn, performing on her legendary Red Violin.
This memorable concert was made possible through the generosity of the David Lee Desert Foundation, whose support continues to strengthen the cultural heartbeat of our community. Through their kindness, we were also able to welcome 75 students from the local school district as our sponsored guests—young listeners experiencing the electricity of live symphonic music, perhaps for the very first time. These are the moments that plant seeds, allowing a lifelong love of music to take root.
Looking ahead, we invite you to join us on May 9 at the historic Palm Springs Plaza Theatre for a special Mother’s Day celebration. This upcoming concert will feature acclaimed pianist John Novacek, whose dynamic artistry promises to dazzle. The program includes Rhapsody in Blue and I Got Rhythm—works bursting with color, vitality, and unmistakable American spirit.
We look forward to sharing another unforgettable evening of music with you—where elegance meets energy, and every note tells a story.
Tom Hartley
Music Director & Conductor
Palm Springs Symphony
On Tuesday night, February 17, let Palm Springs sparkle to the sound of celebration as Tom Hartley leads the Palm Springs Symphony orchestra in a jubilant Mozart-to-Modern Mardi Gras extravaganza. Classical elegance meets New Orleans swagger in a kaleidoscope of sound, moving effortlessly from Mozart’s brilliance to the cinematic sweep of John Williams, with irresistible salutes to Louis Armstrong, Duke Ellington, and even the timeless magic of the Beatles. Think symphonic grandeur with a bead-tossing grin, music that dances, swings, and soars. This is not just a concert, it’s a party in formalwear. Seats are going fast, so grab your tickets now and join us for a night where symphony hall meets Bourbon Street, no passport required.
With sincere thanks,
Tom Hartley
Co-founder and Conductor
Palm Springs Symphony
On behalf of the Palm Springs Symphony, thank you to everyone who joined us for our premiere concert, Sleigh Bells & Symphony, on December 7th at the historic Plaza Theatre in downtown Palm Springs. That evening marked a meaningful beginning for our orchestra, and it was made unforgettable by the people who filled the hall with energy, attention, and joy.
I extend my deepest gratitude to our extraordinary professional musicians. Their artistry, discipline, and generosity of spirit brought the music vividly to life and set a standard of excellence for all that is to come.
To our audience, thank you for your enthusiastic appreciation of the program. Your warm response, your focused listening, and your applause transformed the performance into a shared celebration. The connection between musicians and listeners is the heart of live symphonic music, and you made that connection shine.
We are profoundly grateful for your support as we begin this journey, and we look forward to many more evenings of music together in Palm Springs.
With sincere thanks,
Tom Hartley
Co-founder and Conductor
Palm Springs Symphony