The Jacksonville Symphony has received a historic $15 million gift, the largest single gift in the orchestra’s 75-year history. It is dedicated to the endowment that supports artistic excellence, symphony musicians, the commissioning of new works and artistic partnerships.
Included in this gift is a matching challenge, offering an opportunity for the community to double the impact of their contributions. The donor asked to remain anonymous.
This gift will significantly shape the orchestra’s future and strengthen its economic and cultural impact on Jacksonville.
“We are truly in and of our community, and this generous gift stands as a testament to the love and support that drives us forward, affirming that our work and presence matter deeply to those we serve,” said Steven Libman, president and CEO. “A robust endowment empowers us to attract and retain the very best talent. The 100 dedicated full-time staff, including 60 gifted musicians, all live and work here, making our symphony an essential part of the city. The symphony is also the primary driver of economic activity downtown.”
In his 10th season, Music Director and Conductor Courtney Lewis has built upon the organization’s legacy of artistic excellence, attracting talent from around the world. This financial gift will empower the symphony to continue raising the artistic profile of the orchestra through artistry and innovation. With a strong emphasis on new commissions, a central part of the symphony’s mission of cultural enrichment, this gift helps preserve and secure partnerships with composers of diverse backgrounds.
“In addition to programming music that our audiences know and love, we believe that commissioning new music is an essential part of an orchestra’s work,” said Lewis. “These generous funds are essential to ensuring that we engage and inspire all audiences in Jacksonville, now and in the future, through a wide variety of programming and special performances.”
The Jacksonville Symphony has welcomed world-class artists for the 75th season such as pianist Joyce Yang and composers Brittany J. Green and Angel Lam, pianist Barry Douglas, the Marcus Roberts Trio and guest conductors Robert Spano and Michael Stern.
Additionally, internationally acclaimed pianist Conrad Tao has joined as the symphony’s Artist-in-Residence for the 2024-25 season, further enhancing the orchestra’s artistic profile.
The notable increase to the endowment provides opportunities for the symphony to sustain this level of programming for seasons to come.
“This contribution is a testament to the confidence in the future of the Jacksonville Symphony, and we hope it inspires others to also make transformational gifts,” said Matthew Marcin, Jacksonville Symphony board chair. “Together, we can ensure that the symphony thrives and continues to enrich the cultural fabric of our community for generations to come."
