The Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra has announced the inaugural naming of Heinz Hall’s stage as the Simmons Family Stage, honoring contributions of $50 million – including the PSO’s largest single donation to date, of $29.5 million in 2006 – by longtime supporter Richard “Dick” P. Simmons and his family.

The occasion was marked by presenting the Simmons Family with a commemorative plaque, located on the stage of Heinz Hall, above the stage left (house right) door on June 4,  2025, during a sold-out concert featuring Music Director Manfred Honeck and cellist Yo-Yo Ma  performing Dvořák’s Cello Concerto with the orchestra. 

The performance with Yo-Yo Ma also included the world premiere of songs by television host, producer, author, and composer Fred Rogers, arranged for cello choir.  

Simmons has been a champion of the PSO for nearly four decades. He first joined the orchestra’s Board of Directors in 1988 and served as Chairman of the Board for his initial term  from 1989 to 1997 and a second term from 2009 to 2015. 

The announcement of the honor said Simmons “has been a visionary leader, having led significant fundraising campaigns, lobbied for government support, chaired gala celebrations, and traveled with the PSO on international tours. He was named ‘Life Director’ in 1997 by the PSO’s Board of Directors, in recognition of his incredible advocacy and unmatched  generosity. In 2002, [he]was elected Chairman Emeritus of the PSO Board of  Directors.” 

“Wow! I’ve had the privilege of being associated with the Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra for close to 50 years, first as a patron, then as a board member and chair, and always as  a benefactor,” Simmons said in a statement. “This orchestra is a jewel in our city, and I am humbled to have been a  part of it. We are so fortunate to have this world-class symphony, and I always enjoy coming  home to Heinz Hall.” 

“In 2008, I began as music director of the Pittsburgh Symphony at the invitation of Dick Simmons, as Chairman of the Board,” Honeck stated. “Ever since, he has been a steadfast champion of our artistry, a constant  advocate for Pittsburgh’s cultural excellence, and a very good friend. It is only fitting that the very stage on which we perform at our home, Heinz Hall, will now bear the Simmons family name.” 

Categories: Arts Funding, Our Posts, Venue

Tags: Dick Simmons, Heinz Hall, Manfred Honeck, Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra, PSO, Simmons Family Stage, Yo-Yo Ma