Florida's Jacksonville Symphony Receives $15 Million Gift

The gift is the largest single donation in the orchestra's history

The Jacksonville Symphony, in Florida, has received the single largest gift in its 75-year history. A philanthropist, who wishes to remain anonymous, has contributed $15 million to the symphony's total endowment of $30 million.

This sum funds community engagement programs, performances, as well as a range of music education initiatives.

According to the orchestra, the donation will also go towards hiring and retaining the "very best" players — as well as the commissioning of new music and the delivery of artistic partnerships. Currently, Jacksonville employs 60 players, as well as 40 other staff members — including its Music Director Courtney Lewis.

The money will also be spent on the orchestra's partnerships with outstanding visiting musicians, who in the past have included pianist Joyce Yang, composers Brittany J. Green and Angel Lam, pianist Barry Douglas, the Marcus Roberts Trio, and guest conductors Robert Spano and Michael Stern.

Founded in 1949, the Jacksonville Symphony is based at Jacoby Symphony Hall at the Jacksonville Center for the Performing Arts. At present, the orchestra reaches over 165,000 individuals through over 95 performances each season and also runs a number of outreach initiatives.

"This generous gift stands as a testament to the love and support that drives us forward, affirming that our work and presence matter to those we serve," said Steven Libman, Symphony President and CEO.

"Together, we can ensure that the Symphony thrives and continues to enrich the cultural fabric of our community for generations to come."

"These generous funds are essential to ensuring that we engage and inspire all audiences in Jacksonville, now and in the future, through a wide variety of programming and special performances," said Courtney Lewis.