It’s been a tremendous year for The Desert Symphony.
In September, Desert Symphony President Nancy Tapick announced that the organization will make The Show at Agua Caliente in Rancho Mirage its new home.
“This year marks a thrilling new chapter for The Desert Symphony as we make our debut at The Show,” Tapick said. “This world-class venue — known for its exceptional acoustics and intimate atmosphere — offers the perfect stage for the kind of unforgettable performances our audience has come to expect.”
With the success of its first two concerts behind it, the symphony is now turning its attention to its 2026 performances.
“We designed the 2026 season with our new venue — and our audience — in mind,” said Desert Symphony Executive Director Debbie Shapiro. “I believe both our longtime members and symphony newcomers will find the breadth and depth of our programming refreshing.”
This season’s schedule includes Grammy Award winner Melissa Manchester on Jan. 15, followed by Tony Award-winner Bernadette Peters on Feb. 19. The March 11 concert features The Music of Billy Joel starring Tony and Grammy nominee Michael Cavanaugh. Classical Night Fever, an evening of symphonic disco, closes the season on April 16.
The legendary Peters will perform as part of The Desert Symphony’s annual fundraising gala.
“The gala is always the highlight of the season,” Shapiro said. “With tables on the floor of The Show and a fabulous dinner, it gives guests a front-row seat to a spectacular performance while supporting the organization they love.”
Produced by Palm Springs-based Momentous, the gala will honor Maggy and the late Jack Simon with the Amadeus Award, presented to individuals who have demonstrated an extraordinary commitment to the arts, philanthropy and the enduring power of music to build community.
“Though Jack is no longer with us, his spirit of generosity and love for the arts continues to shine through Maggy, who carries forward their shared legacy of philanthropy here in the Desert,” Tapick said.
Outreach and partnerships play a key role in The Desert Symphony’s continued success. Through the Symphonette Society (formerly the Symphonettes) — the organization’s philanthropic arm — and in conjunction with the Palm Springs chapter of the nonprofit Do the Right Thing, the symphony will continue to support music education initiatives throughout the Coachella Valley. By awarding scholarships to local high school seniors pursuing an education or career in music and providing local classrooms with instruments, the society champions young musicians and strengthens music education across Greater Palm Springs.
Other partnerships include Alzheimers Coachella Valley and Veterans Ticket Foundation, both of which receive free concert tickets for their constituents as a token of appreciation for their service.
“[The] Desert Symphony’s support helps us deliver a crucial service that gives back to those who have sacrificed so much,” said Vet Tix founder, CEO and U.S. Navy veteran Michael A. Focareto III. “The tickets provide more than just a seat at a show; they are morale-boosting and a much-needed thank you. They offer our heroes a way to create new memories and connect with their communities.”
“For 37 years, The Desert Symphony has served as a cultural cornerstone for the Coachella Valley,” Shapiro said. “With a new home, strong partnerships and a renewed commitment to music education, we are fulfilling our mission of ensuring that live performances and music education continue to remain accessible to those who might otherwise not have the opportunity to experience them.”
For concert tickets and more information, visit desertsymphony.org or call 760-773-5988.
Ellen Bluestein is a freelance writer and event producer. She has been working in fund development, marketing and event production for the majority of her career. Originally from Boston, she moved to the Coachella Valley in 2018.
This article originally appeared on Palm Springs Desert Sun: The Desert Symphony keeps the music playing
Reporting by Ellen Bluestein, Special to The Desert Sun / Palm Springs Desert Sun
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