JSO Guild

Organized in 1948, the mission of the Jackson Symphony Guild continues unchanged - to promote the enjoyment of music through volunteer and financial support of the Jackson Symphony Orchestra. As the Orchestra has grown, so has the Jackson Symphony Guild. Today, we play a major role in a number of areas including fundraising and educational and audience development projects. With all that we do, the Jackson Symphony Guild needs your help. Getting involved with some of the Guild's programs is a great way to make new friends and support the arts in our community. After reading what some of our volunteers have to say about their experience with Guild activities, we hope you will join us!

A Message from the Guild President

Dear Symphony Supporters,

For the next year it will be my honor and challenge to be the President of the Jackson Symphony Guild’s Board of Directors. My vision is:

In these difficult economic times, symphony orchestras from Pennsylvania to Texas have been forced to close their operations due to a lack of financial support from their communities. Our community values the arts and the impact that music education has on young people. Just as exercise keeps your body healthy, music enriches your spirit and playing a musical instrument challenges your mind.

Our Symphony Orchestra and Chamber Music Group bring us food for our souls. If you didn’t see Tosca, you missed a superb performance. We are so fortunate to have a well-run, financially sound Symphony Orchestra and Music School in Jackson.

Maestro Osmond wears two hats – that of conductor and that of chief operating officer of the JSO. His vision of and dedication to music appreciation inspires his staff, musicians, students and volunteers to work to make the Jackson Symphony Orchestra and Music School something we all can be proud to be part of.

Your support is what has made the difference in keeping the appreciation of music alive in Jackson. Thank you. I encourage you to continue to support the JSO in whatever manner you can, be it season tickets, music lessons, chamber music concert attendance, sponsorship of performances, advertising in concert programs or involvement in the Guild. There is a direct correlation between the efforts of the Guild volunteers and the amount of money the Guild is able to give to the JSO. If you have any ideas or suggestions that may help the Guild to be more successful please feel free to call me at 783-5709. I look forward to meeting you at a Guild or JSO activity this year.

"Interesting people... worthwhile projects... a feeling of contribution to our community." ... Barbara Stanton

"I enjoy being a part of the Jackson Symphony Guild because I am proud of our Symphony and am happy to be supporter of such a fine group. I also enjoy the camaraderie and interest in fine music that I share with other Guild members" ... Karen Maas

"It's a good feeling to know that our efforts keep the Symphony in Jackson and quality music programs in our schools." ... Joyce Phelps

"When I am at a concert, my heart fills with joy and pride in our community. Through my work with the Guild I feel I am playing a small part in celebration of the Arts in Jackson." ... Sally Bunce

"Being a member of the Guild permits me to make a contribution to our community while having fun with people I respect and admire." ... Elayne Eberhart

The Guild contributes tremendously to the JSO through fund-raising projects, support of JSO outreach programs and behind-the-scenes work. Here is a description of the many Guild projects and committees.