The History of the Reno PHil

The Reno Phil began in 1969 with a bold idea and a belief that our community deserved a symphony of its own. Founder Gregory Stone brought a remarkable life story and a larger-than-life show business personality to Reno. Born in Odessa in 1900, he became a noted pianist and composer before immigrating to New York after the Russian Revolution. His eclectic career took him through Broadway, Hollywood studios, and the touring Ice Capades Orchestra, where he met his wife, Ingebord.

Stone had made a substantial personal fortune through commercial ventures he considered less prestigious, and according to Reno pianist Ron Williams, he passionately wanted to leave his mark, and ultimately his exit, on the music world by creating something serious and lasting. His vision, paired with his resources and determination, helped establish the foundation for what would become one of northern Nevada’s most important cultural institutions.

With the help of local musicians, volunteers, and early community supporters, Stone founded the Reno Philharmonic Symphony Orchestra. The first rehearsal took place in the Reno Musicians Union Hall, followed by the inaugural concert at the Pioneer Center for the Performing Arts. His Hollywood influenced marathon programs drew both excitement and debate, and although disagreements sometimes played out publicly, community support remained strong. His industry connections brought celebrated guests such as MGM pianist Jose Iturbi, helping the young orchestra gain visibility and inspiring early audiences.

After the Stones retired to Spain in the late 1970s, Ron Daniels became the orchestra’s second music director. His nineteen-year tenure brought artistic focus and stability. With involvement from community leaders such as Board President John Flanigan, and with continued donor support, the Phil strengthened its administrative foundation and entered a period of financial and artistic growth.

The 1990s ushered in a period of transformation. New residents embraced the Phil, and donor investment helped the orchestra expand its programming and deepen its connection to the community. Retired businessman Jack Fegely championed its advancement, while Executive Director Barry Auman broadened the Phil’s presence with community events like Pops on the River. Education blossomed through the leadership of Philip Ruder and Lynn Auman, who developed Young People’s Concerts, Discover Music, and the youth orchestras. These programs continue today thanks to the generosity of supporters who believe in nurturing young musicians.

In 1999, after a national search, conductor Barry Jekowsky became the Phil’s third music director. His leadership sharpened the orchestra’s virtuosity and expanded its artistic reach. Donor support fueled new commissions, additional Classix performances, and continued investment in music education.

A major milestone arrived in 2009 with the appointment of Music Director Laura Jackson, who continues to lead the orchestra today. Laura brings extraordinary artistic vision, warmth, and a passion for education. Supported by generous donors, she has introduced composer residencies, expanded school outreach, strengthened regional collaborations, and elevated the Classix Series into one of northern Nevada’s most cherished cultural offerings.

During this era, Tim Young served as the Phil’s CEO, guiding the organization through important operational growth. His leadership strengthened administrative systems, expanded community partnerships, built financial stability, and helped professionalize the Phil’s infrastructure. His work laid a strong foundation for the organization’s next stages of development, supported throughout by dedicated donors who believed in the Phil’s mission.

After an exhaustive search and a period of transition, the Reno Phil found its next steady and thoughtful leadership it needed. In 2023, the Reno Phil welcomed President and CEO Aaron Doty, selected after a national search that included input from musicians, staff, board members, and committed supporters. Aaron brings more than two decades of experience in the orchestra field, having served in artistic operations and leadership roles with the Washington National Opera and as Vice President and General Manager of the Grand Rapids Symphony. His background as a musician, educator, and arts administrator gives him a holistic leadership approach rooted in collaboration and community.

Under Aaron’s leadership, and thanks to the generosity of donors, the Phil’s annual budget has grown from three million to five million dollars in recent years. This expansion allows the Phil to reach new audiences, expand education programs, support its musicians, and invest in artistic initiatives that enrich northern Nevada.

More than fifty years after its founding, the Reno Phil remains one of northern Nevada’s most cherished cultural institutions. With an annual audience of more than fifty-five thousand and education programs reaching thousands of students each year, the Phil continues to thrive because of people like you who believe in the power of music. Your generosity ensures that the music plays on for generations to come.

You can help write the Phil’s next chapter through your support.

Gregory Stone, Founder