The Jacksonville Symphony Gala set a new benchmark on Feb. 28, raising a record $1.14 million to support its music education and community impact programs. The total was revealed on stage by gala emcee and auctioneer Magen McRoberts during a Broadway-inspired concert led by Music Director Courtney Lewis.
The evening featured a dinner on the Moran Theater stage presented by Chef’s Garden, a luxury auction and a special performance by the Jacksonville Symphony, Broadway stars Meghan Picerno and Jay Armstrong Johnson in Jacoby Symphony Hall, followed by an exclusive after-party. Ann Hicks, a longtime advocate for the arts and dedicated supporter of the Jacksonville Symphony, served as the gala’s honorary chair, lending her influence and vision to the event’s success.
“I’m honored to support the symphony in its mission to bring this glorious music to our community and to the next generation of artists and music lovers,” said Hicks.
“We are deeply grateful for the generosity and support at this year’s gala,” said Steven B. Libman, president and CEO of the Jacksonville Symphony. “Ann’s dedication to the arts and belief in the transformative power of music is central to our work. The funds raised will allow us to continue providing music education to more than 60,000 students annually and to inspire the next generation of musicians and arts enthusiasts.”
The Symphony Gala Committee co-chairs were Ryan Schwartz and Sally and Ross Singletary. Their leadership and commitment to the symphony and Northeast Florida’s cultural vitality were instrumental in making the evening a success.
“We are proud to support the symphony and celebrate this cultural jewel of our city,” said the Singletarys. Schwartz added, “The symphony’s mission is more important now than ever, and I’m honored to be part of such a meaningful and successful event.”
Title sponsor Arcus Capital Partners and all gala attendees also contributed to the evening’s achievements.
The Symphony Gala underscores the Jacksonville Symphony’s role as a cultural cornerstone of Northeast Florida, combining world-class performances with vital educational and community programs that reach tens of thousands of students and families each year.
