JSO Presents: An Inclusive Musical Experience
The Jackson Symphony Orchestra is thrilled to announce its third Sensory-Friendly Chamber Concert.
This innovative event will take place on March 9, 2024, at 1:00 PM at Weatherwax Hall, offering an inclusive and welcoming environment for individuals with sensory sensitivities, including neurodiverse audiences, and those with communication, movement, and learning needs. Admission to this event is free but reservation is required.
The Sensory-Friendly Chamber Concert will feature the softer wind instruments from our orchestra performing as a small ensemble/chamber group. Audience members will have the opportunity to experience the unique sounds of the clarinet, bassoon, horn, flute, and oboe in a relaxed atmosphere, enhanced by lowered lighting to create a comfortable sensory environment.
To further engage with the music, attendees will be encouraged to use scarves to flow with the melodies and maracas to feel the rhythmic beats. Throughout the performance, individuals are welcome to move or sit as they prefer, ensuring everyone can fully enjoy the concert experience.
JSO is committed to providing a supportive environment for all attendees. Therefore, the venue will offer various accommodations, including abundant accessible seating, quiet rooms, medium quiet rooms, standing room, and additional viewing areas, as well as earplugs, headphones, fidgets, scarves, and maracas.
“Our mission is to provide world-class music to the greater Jackson community, and for many people, this is the most accessible, enjoyable, and inclusive way for them to experience live music” said Belle Coty, Director of Fund and Audience Development. “This concert embodies my goal to be inclusive and rejuvenates my belief that music can enrich lives.”
Admission to the Sensory-Friendly Chamber Concert is free, thanks to the generous sponsorship from Blue Ox Credit Union. Music and accommodations have been curated with the help of the Mid-Michigan Autism Alliance, JCISD Special Education Supervisor Amy Rogers, and the Durant Street Quartet. Additionally, attendees will receive free take-home fidgets, informational materials, and more from the Mid-Michigan Autism Association, BlueOx Credit Union, Christoff & Sons Floor Covering, Inc., and Final Touch Finish Work and Cabinet Retouching.
To reserve your tickets, discuss specific needs and accommodations, or for more information, please visit https://www.jacksonsymphony.org or contact the JSO Box Office at (517) 782-3221 or email info@jacksonsymphony.org. Schools attending the concert are encouraged to coordinate with their teachers or principals.
For media inquiries, please contact:
Mara Shehab, Marketing Coordinator
Phone: (517) 998-1001
Email: maras@jacksonsymphony.org