SUMMER SONGS: AN OUTDOOR CONCERT
AUGUST 21, 2024
DAHLEM CENTER
Join the Jackson Symphony Orchestra and Dahlem for a FREE outdoor concert performance! Bring your own lawn chair or blanket and sit under the trees or out in the grass and listen to a selection of summer songs performed by the Jackson Symphony Orchestra brass quintet. The performance will be held outdoors at the Dahlem Environmental Education Center pavilion, 7117 South Jackson Road, at 7 p.m. Please feel free to arrive early and enjoy a walk on the trails, play at the nature playscape, or stop by the exhibit room and gift shop.
SUMMER POPS: A SALUTE TO AMERICA
AUGUST 23, 2024
HORACE BLACKMAN PARK
The Jackson Symphony Orchestra is proud to announce Patriotic Pops, a FREE concert to take place on Friday, August 23 at 7:00 PM, at Horace Blackman Park. This summer we’ll pay tribute to America and its steadfast strength in the face of hardship with a mixture of marches, film scores, and iconic works. These pieces are all composed by American composers including music by Aaron Copland, John Philip Sousa and John Williams. The concert is free but you can purchase VIP tickets for $30 which includes a pre-concert reception at Weatherwax Hall beginning at 6 PM, special seating and one drink ticket.
SENSORY-FRIENDLY CHAMBER CONCERT
NOVEMBER 8, 2024
WEATHERWAX HALL
This sensory-friendly concert experience has been designed for those with sensory sensitivities, including neurodiverse audiences and those with communication, movement, and learning needs. Upon entering the JSO, attendees will have the chance to feel and touch real instruments in our lobby prior to the concert. This concert features the softer wind instruments from our orchestra performing as a small ensemble/chamber group. Clarinet, Bassoon, Horn, Flute, and Oboe will share their unique sounds with the audience in a lower-lighting setting.
THE NUTCRACKER
DECEMBER 13, 14, & 15, 2024
THE POTTER CENTER
Ballet Chelsea proudly presents its 27th annual performance of The Nutcracker, a Christmas Eve tale about a young girl named Marie and her magical journey to the enchanted Kingdom of Sweets. The Ballet Chelsea company artists and the Jackson Symphony Orchestra musicians will come together for the sixth year to present this annual full-length, narrated ballet.
CONCERT AGLOW: HOLIDAY EDITION
DECEMBER 20-21, 2024
JACKSON COUNTY TOWER BALLROOM
Join us for our Holiday Concert Aglow, a collaboration with the County Fair, where music and light blend to create magic. Enjoy an evening with a JSO string quartet playing holiday favorites all in the cozy glow of candlelight. It’s a moment to unwind, share with loved ones, and feel the holiday spirit in a way that’s both comforting and special.
CONCERT AGLOW: THE MUSIC OF THE BEATLES
JANUARY 31 – FEBRUARY 1, 2025
JACKSON COUNTY TOWER BALLROOM
Experience the magic of live music in a whole new light. Enjoy music from The Beatles during this evening performance with a string quartet from the Jackson Symphony Orchestra, all in the cozy glow of candlelight. Hosted at the Jackson County Tower Ballroom, this special event, in collaboration with the Jackson County Fair, promises a blend of rock and classical elegance for a memorable musical experience.
PAST EVENTS
SUMMER SONGS: AN OUTDOOR CONCERT
JUNE 12, 2024
DAHLEM CENTER
Join the Jackson Symphony Orchestra and Dahlem for a FREE outdoor concert performance! Bring your own lawn chair or blanket and sit under the trees or out in the grass and listen to a selection of summer songs performed by the Jackson Symphony Orchestra string quartet. The performance will be held outdoors at the Dahlem Environmental Education Center pavilion, 7117 South Jackson Road, at 7 p.m. Please feel free to arrive early and enjoy a walk on the trails, play at the nature playscape, or stop by the exhibit room and gift shop. Note: Due to the concert being outdoors, if there is inclemate weather the performance will be postponed to June 26 – please follow JSO and Dahlem on social media for performance updates.
THE MUSIC OF QUEEN
MAY 18, 2024
POTTER CENTER
Experience an electrifying fusion of classical and classic rock like never before at the Jackson Symphony Orchestra’s spring pops concert, presented in partnership with Jeans ‘n Classics. Prepare to be enthralled as the symphony orchestra joins forces with a phenomenal live tribute band to deliver an unforgettable evening of “The Music of Queen.” This extraordinary collaboration will showcase the symphonic splendor of the orchestra, providing a breathtaking backdrop as the band takes center stage, performing iconic songs by the legendary rock band Queen. From anthems like “Bohemian Rhapsody” to hits such as “We Will Rock You” and “Don’t Stop Me Now,” this one-of-a-kind event promises to captivate music enthusiasts of all kinds. Embrace the seamless harmony of orchestral and rock melodies, transporting the audience on a musical journey that celebrates the timeless brilliance of Queen’s extraordinary repertoire.
CHARCUTERIE BOARD WALK
MAY 16, 2024
DOWNTOWN JACKSON
Join us for a delicious stroll through a variety of charcuterie boards finds at your favorite downtown Jackson businesses! A limited amount of Brokerage House VIP ticket holders will end at the JSO for Music Under the Stars with Mark Loring, pianist, to graze on an amazing spread while sipping wine. Please note that this is a fundraising event, and all profits benefit the JDDA flower basket program, the Jackson Symphony Orchestra and In Better Hands.
GUILD ANNUAL DINNER & MEETING
MAY 15, 2024
WEATHERWAX HALL
Join The Guild’s annual dinner and meeting on May 15th at Weatherwax Hall.
COMMUNITY STRINGS SPRING CONCERT
MAY 9, 2024
WEATHERWAX HALL
Spring has sprung! Come celebrate the change in season with community strings. This concert is free and fun for the whole family!
SENSORY-FRIENDLY CHAMBER CONCERT
MARCH 9, 2024
WEATHERWAX HALL
This sensory-friendly concert experience has been designed for those with sensory sensitivities, including neurodiverse audiences and those with communication, movement, and learning needs.
CONCERT AGLOW
FEBRUARY 2 & 3, 2024
JACKSON COUNTY TOWER BALLROOM
Experience the magic of live music in a whole new light. Enjoy music from Fleetwood Mac during this evening performance with a string quartet from the Jackson Symphony Orchestra, all in the cozy glow of candlelight. Hosted at the Jackson County Tower Ballroom, this special event, in collaboration with the Jackson County Fair, promises a blend of rock and classical elegance for a memorable musical experience.
THE NUTCRACKER
DECEMBER 15, 2023 AT 7:00PM
DECEMBER 16, 2023 AT 2:00PM & 7:00PM
DECEMBER 17, 2023 AT 2:00PM
THE POTTER CENTER
Ballet Chelsea proudly presents its 26th annual performance of The Nutcracker, a Christmas Eve tale about a young girl named Marie and her magical journey to the enchanted Kingdom of Sweets. The Ballet Chelsea company artists and the Jackson Symphony Orchestra musicians will come together for the fifth year to present this annual full-length, narrated ballet.
JACKSON SYMPHONY GUILD’S HOLIDAY BALL
DECEMBER 2, 2023
COUNTRY CLUB OF JACKSON
Experience the glitz and glamour of vintage Vegas at the Jackson Symphony Guild’s Holiday Ball – Casino Royale! The highly anticipated annual event will transport you back to the enchanting era of the Rat Pack. Try your luck in the Casino Room, hit the dance floor, sip on classic cocktails, bid on exclusive items at the auctions, and have a ball! It’s a night of elegance, excitement, and entertainment, all in support of the arts in our community. Don your best vintage Vegas attire and join us for a memorable and fun-filled night for a great cause!
COMMUNITY STRINGS HOLIDAY CONCERT
DECEMBER 1, 2023
WEATHERWAX HALL
Free and fun for the whole family! Come celebrate the holiday season with the Community Strings performing Christmas and classical favorites!
SENSORY-FRIENDLY CHAMBER CONCERT
NOVEMBER 17, 2023
WEATHERWAX HALL
This sensory-friendly concert experience has been designed for those with sensory sensitivities, including neurodiverse audiences and those with communication, movement, and learning needs. The Jackson Symphony Orchestra is performing our second free concert experience in our concert hall located in downtown Jackson, MI. Upon entering the JSO, attendees will be greeted with the soft sounds of the harp prior to the concert. This concert features the softer instruments from our orchestra performing as a string quartet. These instruments will share their unique sounds with our audience in a lower-lighting setting. Attendees will be free to sit or roam as the music is performed.
CHILDREN’S HALLOWEEN CONCERT
OCTOBER 21, 2023
MICHIGAN THEATRE
Costumes, candy, and more! Your little ghost or goblin will help haunt the Michigan Theatre with the Jackson Symphony Orchestra’s Halloween Children’s Concert. This exciting program features frightfully fun symphonic music perfect for young eyes and ears. The entire family is invited to dress up in their favorite costume along with our musicians to enjoy “boo-tiful” music! Kids in costume will have the opportunity to join our costume parade around the theatre! This concert is a wonderful chance for you to introduce your children to the wonders of live orchestral music.
SUMMER POPS: GREETINGS FROM HOLLYWOOD
AUGUST 25, 2023
HORACE BLACKMAN PARK
Join the JSO as we travel through the best of the last 100 years of cinema. This concert will dive into the different eras of cinematic thrills, from the suspense of Jaws to the triumph of Rocky and the drama of Casablanca. Grab your popcorn and pull up a seat for this treasure trove of musical classics. This concert is free but if you wish to purchase $30 tickets for the VIP experience, you will have access to our pre-concert reception across the street in Weatherwax Hall starting at 6 pm and special seating during the concert in Horace Blackman Park.
SENSORY FRIENDLY CHAMBER CONCERT
JUNE 3, 2023
WEATHERWAX HALL
This sensory-friendly concert experience has been designed for those with sensory sensitivities, including neurodiverse audiences, and those with communication, movement, and learning needs. The Jackson Symphony Orchestra is launching a new free concert experience in our concert hall located in downtown Jackson, MI. This concert features the softer instruments from our orchestra performing as a small wind instrument ensemble and a string instrument quartet.
THE MUSIC OF HARRY POTTER
MAY 20, 2023
MICHIGAN THEATRE
Explore the world of Harry Potter through sound. The JSO will again be bringing the world of Harry Potter to life at the historic Michigan Theatre of Jackson. This interactive experience will feature some of your favorite characters from the movies. Be sure and come dressed as your favorite witch or wizard and be prepared for a magical evening.
THE NUTCRACKER
DECEMBER 9, 10, and 11
POTTER CENTER
Ballet Chelsea proudly presents its 25th annual performance of The Nutcracker, a Christmas Eve tale about a young girl named Marie and her magical journey to the enchanted Kingdom of Sweets. Choreographed by Artistic Director Wendi DuBois, the Ballet Chelsea company artists and the Jackson Symphony Orchestra musicians will come together for the fourth year to present this annual full-length, narrated ballet.
THE GUILD HOLIDAY BALL
DECEMBER 3
THE COUNTRY CLUB OF JACKSON
Join the Jackson Symphony Guild at their annual Holiday Ball in support of the Jackson Symphony Orchestra. This year’s theme is the four seasons! Participate in live and silent auctions, enjoy a full meal, enter the raffle, and dance the night away all while contributing to musical performances and music education in your community! Tickets are $150 per person, get yours today, sales close on November 23rd.
CHILDREN’S HALLOWEEN CONCERT
OCTOBER 29, 2022
MICHIGAN THEATRE
Costumes, candy, and more! Your little ghost or goblin will help haunt the Michigan Theatre for the Jackson Symphony Orchestra’s Halloween Children’s Concert. This exciting program features frightfully fun symphonic music perfect for young eyes and ears. The entire family is invited to dress up in their favorite costume along with our musicians to enjoy “boo-tiful” music! This concert is a wonderful chance for you to introduce your children to the wonders of live orchestral music.
SUMMER POPS: HEROES AND HEROINES
AUGUST 26, 2022
HORACE BLACKMAN PARK
Join the JSO in honoring both fictional and real heroes and heroines that give the people in our country hope! This concert will start by exploring theme songs for heroes that we all know and love from Superman to Wonder Woman. Then, we’ll take the second half of our concert to play some epic music to honor heroes from the common man to the many war heroes and veterans in our community.The concert is free but you can purchase VIP tickets for $30 which includes special seating and one drink ticket.
STAR WARS AND MORE
MAY 21, 2022
MICHIGAN THEATRE
The JSO and the Ella Sharp Museum are taking you out of this world at lightspeed with a performance including iconic space themes from your favorite space themed movies like Star Wars. Join us at the Michigan Theatre for an event that’s perfect for the whole family.
LIVE RECORDING SESSION WITH MARCUS NORRIS
APRIL 28, 2022
MARTIN LUTHER KING JR. CENTER
Free recording session/performance with Jackson born composer, Marcus Norris, using a combination of electronic music and live performers from the Jackson Symphony Orchestra. All are welcome to attend this event. Marcus Norris started out performing beats and electronic music and now he also composes for major orchestras. He is premiering a piece of music with the JSO during our upcoming concerts on April 29, 30, and May 1.
THE NUTCRACKER WITH BALLET CHELSEA
DECEMBER 11 & 12, 2021
POTTER CENTER
Ballet Chelsea proudly presents its 24th annual performance of The Nutcracker, a Christmas Eve tale about a young girl named Marie and her magical journey to the enchanted Kingdom of Sweets. Choreographed by Artistic Director Wendi DuBois, the Ballet Chelsea company artists, and the Jackson Symphony Orchestra musicians will come together for the fourth year to present this annual full-length, narrated ballet.
SUMMER POPS – A SALUTE TO AMERICA
AUGUST 27, 2021
HORRACE BLACKMAN PARK
The Jackson Symphony Orchestra is proud to announce Patriotic Pops, a FREE concert to take place on Friday, August 27 at 7:00 PM, at Horace Blackman Park. This summer we’ll pay tribute to America and its steadfast strength in the face of hardship with a mixture of marches, film scores, and iconic works. These pieces are all composed by American composers including music by Aaron Copland, John Philip Sousa and John Williams. The concert is free but you can purchase VIP tickets for $20 which includes special seating and and an invitation to a VIP reception at Weatherwax Hall. The reception begins at 6:00 PM and will also be open during the concert’s intermission.