Jacksonville Symphony

Dear Symphony Donors and Subscribers,

Looking back, it is hard to believe we have not seen you in Jacoby Symphony Hall since March. COVID-19 has not only impacted all of us as individuals, but also the arts programs that we hold dear.

We are thrilled to once again return to the Jacoby Symphony Hall stage on September 26 for Fanfare! Opening Night. We can’t wait to be back on the stage bringing you live symphonic music. With this great news comes a few changes we need you to know about before returning.

Safety Protocols

The safety of our patrons, musicians and staff remains our top priority. Based on CDC guidelines and the results of the survey we sent to patrons in June, we have developed a comprehensive list of safety protocols that will be in place when we return in September. We will physically distance in the Hall, guaranteeing six feet of separation between most groups of patrons.This has reduced our seating capacity from nearly 1,800 to 582. Patrons will be required to wear masks in most parts of the Times-Union Building, including Jacoby Symphony Hall, and there will be no intermissions at any Symphony concert. You can view the details of our safety plan here.

New Programming

In order to ensure the safety and protection of the Symphony musicians, we will have no more than 54 musicians on stage at any time. In order to meet this safety guidline, the Florida Blue Masterworks season has been impacted as we had to program for a much smaller orchestra. Please find the listing of the new Masterworks season here. Please know that we have made these changes with our audience in mind. Although different than previously announced, the season is still filled with music we know you will love.

Changes to the Pops series have been minimal as virtually all of the programs can be performed with the 54-person orchestra. We are still working out the details of Handel’s Messiah and First Coast Nutcracker in order to provide the same holiday spirit in the safest way. Due to the size of orchestra required and length of performance, we have unfortunately had to remove Symphonic Nights at the Movies from the schedule this season. If you had purchased a ticket to one of the movie concerts, you can either receive a voucher for next season's movie performances, or your purchase will be refunded.

Our Promise to You

We recognize the COVID-19 situation has been changing and it is impossible to predict what will happen over the course of the next 10 months. We want you to know that we have your best interests at heart. We will do everything in our power to ensure your safety and comfort at Symphony events. In fact, we guarantee that you will receive the value that you expect when you purchase a ticket. If you are not comfortable at any time prior to a concert and decide it is best not to attend, or if a concert must be cancelled/postponed due to unforeseen circumstances, you will receive the full value of the tickets you have purchased. You will be able to exchange, donate their value back to the Symphony, or receive a refund for the full amount. Our patrons and donors are our lifeblood and we will work with you individually to be sure you are well taken care of.

We cannot thank you enough for your continued support of the Jacksonville Symphony. During these especially difficult times it is critical for the musicians and staff to know that you value the Symphony experience and remain committed to our future success.

We look forward to seeing you in Jacoby Symphony Hall for Fanfare! Opening Night on September 26.