Deanna Tham of the Jacksonville Symphony shines a light on the symphony’s work with Communities in Schools to bring classical music to students who might never otherwise experience it. The on-stage performance of a symphony orchestra is just the tip of the iceberg. There is the rehearsal, stage, library and personnel that must come together. Beyond that, there are hours … Read More
Finding strength in classical music
The Jacksonville Symphony’s Courtney Lewis says that, in trying times like these, we can all find strength and solace in the works of the masters. A friend recently asked me what symphonic music I think feels of the moment, what music feels like now, as we adjust to a new normal of social distancing and uncertainty. I often use music … Read More
Music is made for hard times like these
Steven Libman says the Jacksonville Symphony is doing what needs to be done to survive the quarantine. As I write this it’s almost incomprehensible that I started a new job on Feb. 1, 2020, as president and CEO for the Jacksonville Symphony. Less than 30 days later, the world changed as the COVID-19 crisis fell upon us. We have had … Read More
Take 20 minutes for Beethoven
Courtney Lewis of the Jacksonville Symphony says a Beethoven piano sonata may be the pick-me-up we all could use right about now. I’m sure I speak for many of you when I say it’s been a long time since I had this much time on my hands. The effect of the coronavirus on the performing arts has been devastating. At … Read More
Dad and Duke (Ellington), Jazz Class and Serendipity – All Jazz Has a Cool Hidden History
By Deborah Hollis Kaye, March 10, 2018 Why did I look for the Duke composition from 1972? I decided to change careers from being a Wall Street securities regulatory and new products lawyer for 40 years after a semi-failed spinal fusion to being a volunteer part time arts attorney. Why and how? Since I had grown up with a family … Read More
Kids learn more than music in youth orchestras
Deanna Tham, principal conductor of the Jacksonville Symphony Youth Orchestras, says her favorite part of the job is watching kids learn to work together to create something bigger than themselves. There is a special moment in every musical performance, right before the sound starts. The conductor takes in a breath and absorbs the profundity of the entire work that is … Read More
A chance to shine for flute player
Les Roettges, principal flute player with the Jacksonville Symphony, says he is excited about about an upcoming performance, which gives him a chance to step into the spotlight to perform one of his favorite pieces. I am thrilled to be the featured soloist on the upcoming Florida Blue Masterworks series concerts (January 31 and February 1). I have been the … Read More
Holiday Pops features a piece with lyrics written by lyricist with Jacksonville roots
“Jacksonville has always felt like my true home…” — Lee Perry For many of us, the holidays are a time to celebrate family, friends and the joy the holiday spirit brings. I am no different! In fact, I am brushing off the holiday playlists at the beginning of November; judge as you will. For me, and I’m sure many others, … Read More
Nutcracker requires intimate conversation between musicians, dancers
One of the best parts of holding the title of Assistant Conductor is how much community engagement the position affords. I get to travel with music to outside communities, bring the excitement of sound to students, and share the treasures of the score with people who may not have thought to step into the hall. This also includes collaborations with … Read More
Chris Bassett’s Top Picks for the 2019-2020 Season
With a list full of some of my utmost favorite works in the orchestral repertoire, and some lesser known, these selected concerts make a phenomenal subscription for the first-time concert goer, veteran subscriber, or anyone looking to spend their evening at the Symphony no matter how often you join us. You’ll find John Williams’ final score in the Harry Potter™ series, return appearances from some of our favorites like violinist Stefan … Read More