There’s a first time for everything—especially in a place as dynamic and ever-evolving as Palm Springs. After more than a century as an international destination for leisure, style, and culture, the city is adding a new star to its lineup: a world-class symphony orchestra.

The brand-new Palm Springs Symphony will make its highly anticipated debut on December 7, 2025, with a rousing holiday concert, “Sleigh Ride & Symphony: A Joyful Christmas Concert,” at the newly restored and iconic Plaza Theatre. It’s the start of the orchestra’s inaugural 2025–26 season—and the beginning of a thrilling new chapter in the city’s cultural legacy.

Exterior of the Plaza Theatre in Palm Springs

Why Go to the Symphony?

Whether you’re a seasoned concertgoer or completely new to classical music, a live symphony performance is a powerful and unforgettable experience. Here's why you might want to add it to your Palm Springs plans:

  • It’s More Than Music – A symphony engages your senses. You don’t just hear it—you feel it. From sweeping strings to the power of live brass, it’s a full-body experience in a way digital playlists can’t match.

  • Live Music, Live Emotions – There's nothing like being in the room when the first note soars. Each performance is unique, unrepeatable, and emotionally rich. You don’t have to know the composers—just come ready to be moved.

  • A Social and Cultural Night Out – Attending the symphony is a shared experience. It’s a chance to dress up (if you like), meet people, and enjoy a beautiful evening out—perfect for date night, visitors, locals, and music lovers alike.

  • Surprises Await – The Palm Springs Symphony promises more than just traditional classics. Think Gershwin, cinematic scores, holiday favorites, and even unexpected guest performances. You’ll never know quite what’s in store.

Born of Passion, Backed by Community

The Palm Springs Symphony is the realization of a long-held dream by its founders: Roger Benachowski, Marilyn Benachowski, and Tom Hartley (who also serves as conductor and music director). After three years of behind-the-scenes work and non-profit paperwork, the symphony is officially ready to shine.

“Palm Springs has a deep love for arts and culture,” says co-founder Marilyn Benachowski, a Juilliard-trained violinist and veteran of the Southern California music scene. “With its world-class art galleries, theaters, live music venues, and film festivals, this city is more than ready for its own symphony.”

A Perfect Match: Symphony + Plaza Theatre

When symphony founders shared their vision with the Plaza Theatre Foundation, the response was immediate and enthusiastic. The historic venue was already in the midst of a major restoration, and the Foundation saw the symphony as a natural fit.

So natural that the Plaza Theatre not only expanded its stage to accommodate the orchestra, it also named the Palm Springs Symphony its official Resident Symphony. This rare designation ensures a long-term partnership between venue and ensemble, rooted in shared commitment to live performance excellence.

Hollywood-Level Talent, Right Here in the Desert

Thanks to Marilyn’s music industry connections, the Palm Springs Symphony features 40 top-tier Hollywood musicians, many of whom perform for major films, television scores, and awards shows like the Oscars and Emmys.

Among them is Concertmaster Sam Fischer, who also chairs the Music Department at the University of Redlands. His Master degree is from The Juilliard School. The result? Each concert is a high-caliber, star-studded affair, with talent you’d expect to find in Los Angeles or New York—but set against the stunning backdrop of Palm Springs.

Sam Fischer, violinist with Palm Spring Symphony

What’s in Store for the Season?

Following its festive debut in December, the Palm Springs Symphony will present a rich and varied program that includes:

  • Timeless classical compositions

  • Opera highlights and popular standards

  • Gershwin and American jazz-infused pieces

  • A spectacular July 4th concert—performed early so guests can still catch fireworks later

  • Special appearances from renowned soloists like Elizabeth Pitcairn, who performs on the legendary 1790 Mendelssohn “Red Violin” Stradivarius

And, as conductor Tom Hartley hints, every concert will include a few surprises.

Get more information, view performances, and buy tickets.

The Plaza Theatre

128 S. Palm Canyon Drive

760.593.5738