Biography
The Jacksonville Symphony, founded in 1949, has grown into a leading American orchestra with a robust season that features orchestral classics, contemporary works, and community education initiatives. Its home is the Robert E. Jacoby Symphony Hall, a premier Jacksonville venue, where the ensemble performs approximately 95 concerts each season, reaching audiences of all ages throughout the year.
Music Director: Courtney Lewis has led the orchestra since 2015. His steady leadership has included notable contract extensions through 2032, following earlier extensions in 2020 and 2022, underscoring a shared commitment to artistic excellence and community engagement.
Discography Highlights: The Jacksonville Symphony’s discography features Carmina Burana (Orff), recorded in 2006 as the orchestra’s sole album recording to date. The project showcases the ensemble’s powerful brass, relentless rhythms, and choral prowess that resonate with listeners well beyond the concert hall.
Recent Growth and Milestones: A landmark donation announced in 2025 marked a significant gift fueling programs, education, and audience development to ensure sustainable artistic impact for years to come.
Upcoming Tours and Programs: The 2025–26 season includes a John Williams program in April 2025, an expansive America in Concert: 250 Years of Music & Majesty on November 16, 2025, and the First Coast Nutcracker in December 2025. Each performance date stands on its own, with tickets available through the official site.
Social Media & Online Presence: Stay connected with the Jacksonville Symphony through Instagram @jaxsymphony and the official YouTube channel, which features live streams and video content. For the most reliable ticketing experience and to avoid scams, buy tickets only from the official Jacksonville Symphony site.
Where to Find Them: Jacksonville, Florida — a city with a thriving cultural scene that combines coastal living with a strong performing arts tradition. The Jacksonsville Symphony’s home, Robert E. Jacoby Symphony Hall, is a centerpiece of the city’s downtown arts district, offering excellent acoustics and a welcoming experience for concertgoers.
Whether you’re new to orchestral music or a long-time patron, the Jacksonville Symphony invites you to secure your seats and enjoy world-class performances in a city that loves its arts—and has a dedicated team to help you find the right show, the right date, and the right seats. We’ve got you.
