About Us
Mission Statement
The Jackson Symphony League is a volunteer organization dedicated to the support of The Jackson Symphony through fundraising, education, and social activities while fostering an appreciation of music throughout West Tennessee.
History
Established in 1962, The Jackson Symphony League is an indispensable auxiliary of The Jackson Symphony. The League provides a wide range of services and fundraising support for the orchestra, while generating ticket sales and sparking community interest and involvement. The League was patterned after the Memphis Symphony League and was organized through the leadership of the first president Mrs. Robert Barnett, assisted by Mrs. Sally Pigford, Mrs. Louis Pascal, Mrs. Sally Erb, and Mrs. Marjorie Miller. The Jackson Symphony League is affiliated with the League of American Orchestras. League officers have greatly benefited from LAO publications and regional and national LAO meetings.
How We Serve
Educational Outreach Projects: The award-winning Color of Music program, which began twenty-five years ago, encourages thousands of West Tennessee students from public, private, and home schools to listen to and interpret classical music into a visual art form. All artwork is evaluated by judges, selections are made, and the winning works of art are displayed in the main lobby of LeBonheur Children’s Hospital, which sponsors this program.
Musician Hospitality: The League provides snacks and coffee at Symphony rehearsals and for musicians at various Symphony events. Visiting musicians often stay in the homes of League members as well as in homes in the community, creating strong bonds among participants.
Fundraisers: The League supports The Jackson Symphony financially throughout the year by attending concerts and fundraisers presented by The Jackson Symphony. The League also hosts its own fundraisers, especially the annual Crystal Ball gala, held on the last Saturday of January.
Symphony League Ambassadors: High school students whose parents are active League members assist in ushering at all Symphony concerts and aid the League in other service projects throughout the year. Their time can be counted as community service volunteer hours. Senior Ambassadors are recognized at the Crystal Ball in appreciation for their service.
Social Events: Throughout the year, the League hosts social functions to engage League members in a more casual setting at a local restaurant or a League member’s home. We keep members up to date about League activities and offer information about the performing or visual arts in the Jackson area.