JSO Opens 77th Season with Gershwin’s Greatest and Marks Music Director Matthew Aubin’s 10th Anniversary

The Jackson Symphony Orchestra opens its 77th Classical Concert Series with Gershwin’s Greatest on Saturday, October 17, 2026, at 7:30 p.m. at the Potter Center (2111 Emmons Rd). Featuring world-renowned pianist Jon Kimura Parker, the concert celebrates American art and culture, culminating in Gershwin’s vibrant Piano Concerto in F while marking a major milestone: Music Director Matthew Aubin’s 10th season leading the award winning orchestra.

“This season is especially meaningful to me as I begin my 10th season with the JSO—a milestone that makes me both proud of what we have accomplished together and excited for what lies ahead,” said Aubin. “I am thrilled to welcome the legendary Jackie Parker for Gershwin’s Piano Concerto in F. Jackie has performed this music throughout his remarkable career, and I have long admired his musicianship.”

The evening opens with Robert Russell Bennett’s Four Freedoms, inspired by Norman Rockwell’s iconic paintings depicting freedom of speech, freedom of worship, freedom from want, and freedom from fear. The work is part of the JSO’s season-long spirit of celebration, including special tributes honoring the United States’ 250th anniversary.

The orchestra will also perform Gershwin’s Porgy and Bess: Symphonic Picture, bringing some of the landmark opera’s most memorable music to the concert stage. Following intermission, the orchestra performs contemporary French composer Camille Pépin’s colorful Feu d’artifice (Fireworks) before welcoming Parker to the stage for Gershwin’s Piano Concerto in F – a masterpiece blending classical tradition with the infectious rhythms and energy of jazz.

Guild Kick-Off Tailgate Dinner: Start the evening at Robert Snyder Dining Commons, Potter Center at 5:30 p.m. with dinner and live TV football coverage before the concert. The menu includes brisket sliders, gourmet mac and cheese, sides and desserts, with beer and wine available for purchase. Meal service concludes by 7:15 p.m. Tickets are $40 per person or $75 per couple. Save your seat here.

Pre-Concert Conversation: Join us at 6:30 p.m. for a free, interactive conversation before the concert featuring Matthew Aubin and pianist Jon Kimura Parker.

Thank you to our sponsors: Consumers Energy, David and Patricia Eggert, Dawn Foods, Alro Steel, Holiday Inn Express & Suites, Huntington Bank, Penske, and Jackson College.