May 2023 Donor Spotlight - Philip and Gayle Tauber

Artists, entrepreneurs, and lovers of music, Philip and Gayle Tauber have been supporters of the San Diego Symphony since 1982. Born and raised in Los Angeles, Gayle and Phil grew up together and began dating in high school. Fifty-seven years later, they live in San Diego and collaborate on their shared passion for art, business, and supporting their community. Together, they have built several successful brands and businesses, most recognizably perhaps being Kashi Company, cereal, and grain-based products.

Gayle is an oil painter whose work is focused on inspirational women; Phil is a lifelong professional trumpet player who has performed with numerous organizations, including our own San Diego Symphony. Singularly and together, they give presentations on entrepreneurship and innovation and mentor emerging leaders.

Over the years, Phil and Gayle have watched and listened as the San Diego Symphony has gone through major growth and transformation, the culmination of which has been embodied in the Rady Shell at Jacobs Park®. “What you’re seeing now is the result of 40 years of transitional work,” says Phil. “It is such an improvement on the concept of an outdoor concert venue. And of course, the music is rich and exciting.” The Taubers are big fans of the San Diego Symphony’s summer concerts and could not imagine a better backdrop than The Rady Shell. “We have continuing appreciation for the variety of musical opportunities,” Gayle added. “An evening at the Bay, enjoying the music and talent, quietly passing boats, summertime breezes … It’s just magical!”

Gayle and Phil were early supporters of the Symphony Summer Partners program, a campaign geared toward supporting Learning and Community Engagement efforts at the park and beyond throughout San Diego County. Gayle said, “The thought, effort and resources that have been given to community access, particularly diverse populations and next generations is so important.” Through its community outreach and with the help of donations, the San Diego Symphony provides thousands of free and discounted tickets to various groups and direct service organizations, as well as providing numerous education, health and wellness activities, and environmental protection initiatives. “This is the best thing since the red trolly,” Phil says. “If people want to see a symphony concert, it’s accessible.”

Gayle and Phil graciously recognized the work and commitment that has driven this time of growth for the San Diego Symphony. “I think the leadership and staff deserve huge rounds of applause,” said Gayle. “We are fans of Martha Gilmer and will always remember how important she has been for our community and what she has done for all San Diegans.” Phil added, “And we appreciate the Jacobs and the Radys and everything they have done for the Symphony.”

Everything that The San Diego Symphony offers to the community is made possible with the help and support of our patrons and donors. Click here to check out the Symphony Summer Partner program and see how you can get involved. Please reach out to Vice President of Institutional Advancement, Sheri Broedlow at 619-615-3910 or sbroedlow@sandiegosymphony.org for more information or to join.