The Jacksonville Symphony reflects on the past and looks toward the present with a dedication and commitment to the living symphonic art form. By commissioning today’s brightest composers, the Symphony honors its history by looking at the monumental 1971/72 Season: a rebirth of the orchestra through new music.

Following a hiatus during the 1970/71 Season, the Jacksonville Symphony returned the following year with the commissions of Duke Ellington and Carlisle Floyd. These commissions were set to be premiered in Jacksonville, Washington D.C.’s Kennedy Center, and New York’s Carnegie Hall, which aided in the emergence of a new prosperous period for the Symphony.

Historically, the role of new music from living composers saved the Jacksonville Symphony, and today, living composers can play that same role in launching the next era in Jacoby Symphony Hall.