2025-26 Season

For nearly five decades, the Tempe Symphony Orchestra (TSO) has been a cornerstone of the city's cultural identity—bringing the community together through powerful, inspiring live music. Now in its 48th season and 17th year in residence at Tempe Center for the Arts, the TSO unites more than 80 dedicated local musicians in four dynamic concerts each year. Under the leadership of Conductor and Music Director Douglas Akey since 2010, the orchestra presents a rich and diverse repertoire—ranging from beloved classical works to bold contemporary collaborations. With every performance, the TSO delivers an unforgettable musical experience that reflects the passion, skill, and spirit of Tempe.

Tickets start at $11.50

Winter Concert
Monday, February 9, 2026 | 7:30 pm

 
Johan Halvorsen (1864-1935) Entry of the Boyers
Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky (1840-1893) The Tempest; Fantasy Overture, Op. 18
Ludwig van Beethoven (1770-1827) Symphony Nr. 2 in D, Op. 36

Season Finale
Monday, March 30, 2026 | 7:30 pm

Georges Bizet (1838-1875)
Carmen Suite Nr. 1
L’Arlésienne: Suite Nr. 2
Symphony Nr. 1 in C

Please note, schedule and program are subject to change.

About Tempe Symphony Orchestra 

The Tempe Symphony Orchestra is a vibrant and dedicated ensemble comprising over 80 local musician volunteers who come together to create exceptional musical experiences. With a rich history spanning 48 years, the TSO has established itself as a cornerstone of the Tempe community. Led by the accomplished Douglas Akey, former principal hornist of the orchestra, who has been guiding its artistic vision since 2010, the TSO consistently delivers outstanding performances.

Throughout each season, the orchestra presents four captivating concerts, showcasing a diverse repertoire that spans classical masterpieces, contemporary compositions, and innovative collaborations. With their unwavering commitment to musical excellence, the TSO brings forth powerful emotions, awe-inspiring melodies, and breathtaking harmonies that resonate with audiences of all ages and backgrounds.

By embracing the passion and talent of its dedicated volunteers, the Tempe Symphony Orchestra continues to inspire and uplift its community through the transformative power of music. With each performance, they create a captivating musical tapestry, weaving together the skills and dedication of its musicians into an unforgettable symphonic experience that delights and engages audiences, ensuring the orchestra's legacy for years to come.

Douglas Akey began his musical training in the public schools of Elmhurst, Illinois. He attended Arizona State University earning a Bachelor of Music degree in Instrumental Music (1979) and a Master of Music in Solo Performance (1985). He was a well-respected middle level band director in the Phoenix area for 42 years until his retirement in 2021. During the last fourteen years of his career, in addition to teaching band, he designed and taught three non-performance courses (Notation and Theory, Arranging and Composition, Music History and Literature) in a middle school music technology lab.

As a composer, Douglas has forty-five published works for band, thirty-eight written on commission. He has often served as a clinician having directed many junior and senior high school honor bands, as well as presenting sessions for music educators throughout the United States.

Mr. Akey served as principal horn of the Tempe Symphony Orchestra for thirty-three years, and began his tenure as Music Director of the orchestra in 2010.

This project is supported by the City of Tempe's Arts & Culture Division.