The Plymouth Philharmonic Orchestra (the Phil) will officially celebrate its new role as Orchestra-in-Residence with the Town of Plymouth at Memorial Hall with a public ribbon-cutting ceremony on Wednesday, September 30, 2026, at 10 a.m. at Memorial Hall, 83 Court Street, Plymouth.
The ceremony marks the beginning of a new chapter in the orchestra's 111-year history following the Town of Plymouth's approval of a three-year Orchestra-in-Residence partnership (with the opportunity to expand to 5 years). The agreement formalizes the Phil's longstanding relationship with Memorial Hall and establishes a collaborative framework between the Town and the orchestra, strengthening opportunities for long-term planning, community engagement, and the continued growth of the arts in Plymouth.
Community members are invited to join Town officials, representatives of the Plymouth Philharmonic Orchestra, elected officials, community partners, and supporters as the Town and the Phil celebrate this important milestone. The ceremony will recognize the Orchestra-in-Residence partnership and conclude with a ceremonial ribbon cutting, and light refreshments will be available.
"This partnership represents much more than a venue agreement," said Kara E. McEachern, Executive Director of the Phil. "It recognizes the Plymouth Philharmonic Orchestra as an important cultural partner of the Town and reflects a shared commitment to ensuring that music and the arts remain a vibrant part of our community. We're excited to continue building on our longstanding relationship with Memorial Hall while working alongside the Town to support its future and expand opportunities to serve our audiences."
“We are extremely pleased to further strengthen and solidify the Town’s partnership with the Phil by welcoming them as Memorial Hall’s new orchestra-in-residence,” said Michelle Bratti, Plymouth Commissioner of Health and Human Services. “The Phil has been a staple within the Plymouth community, bringing with it arts and cultural experiences for community members of all ages to enjoy. Their commitment to expanding the arts reaches beyond the seats of Memorial Hall as they’ve also worked closely with our schools to support youth education programs in the classroom and school community. We are proud to have the Phil as a partner in strengthening arts and culture throughout our community.”
As Orchestra-in-Residence, the Phil will benefit from long-term scheduling priority, reduced facility costs, and a stronger working partnership with the Town of Plymouth. The agreement recognizes the orchestra's contributions to Plymouth's cultural life while providing greater collaboration on community engagement, educational initiatives, and future planning for Memorial Hall.
For more than a century, the Phil has enriched the cultural life of the region through world-class performances, music education initiatives, youth scholarships, free community concerts, and partnerships with local organizations. Under the artistic leadership of Steven Karidoyanes, now entering his 33rd season, the orchestra has grown into one of New England's premier regional orchestras. Members of the media and the public are invited to attend.