The Dayton Philharmonic musicians have expressed disappointment regarding the announcement of the 2026-027 season.

In a statement the musicians said, “This week’s season announcement by the Dayton Performing Arts Alliance (DPAA) has landed like a gut punch to the professional artists who make Dayton’s cultural life possible. What should have been a moment of celebration has instead ignited deep frustration, anger, and serious concern about the future of orchestral music in this community.”

The statement added, “Musicians typically greet a new season with excitement. This year, that excitement has been replaced by disappointment and frustration. The DPAA’s programming cuts represent a devastating blow to our livelihoods. The community and the professional artists that serve it should not bear the burden of fixing a financial crisis that is not of our making. We want creativity from the DPAA, not cuts. The Dayton Philharmonic is not a luxury. It is a cultural cornerstone, and the musicians who power it are professionals who deserve to be treated as such.”

The statement comes after the Dayton Performing Arts Alliance decided to cut programming for the 2026-27 season.