JACKSON, TN — The Jackson Symphony has been awarded a $60,000 grant from the National Endowment for the Arts in support of Celebrate America 250, a nationwide initiative commemorating the 250th anniversary of the United States.
This significant federal investment will help power a season of meaningful musical experiences across West Tennessee. Each event will honor our nation’s history, culture, and spirit through live orchestral performance and community engagement.
Symphony on the Move: America 250 Across West Tennessee
The grant will support an expanded Symphony on the Move tour, bringing patriotic and Americana-inspired programs directly into communities throughout the region. From courthouse squares to community centers, these performances will celebrate the music that tells America’s story, reflecting both the shared traditions and the diverse voices that shape our nation today.
Symphony on the Move will make it possible for audiences of all ages to experience professional orchestral ensembles close to home, continuing our commitment to access and connection across rural West Tennessee.
Starlight Symphony: A Community Tradition
The annual Starlight Symphony concert, held at First Presbyterian Church, will also reflect the America 250 theme. For more than four decades, Starlight has gathered thousands under the open sky for a free community celebration of music. This special anniversary season will highlight works and composers that embody the American spirit, honoring freedom, resilience, and unity through powerful orchestral moments.
The Jackson Symphony Music Academy: Inspiring the Next Generation
The grant will further support concerts and educational initiatives through The Jackson Symphony Music Academy (JSMA). Students across the orchestra, strings, and choir programs will explore repertoire connected to America’s musical heritage while performing concerts that commemorate this historic milestone.
By investing in young musicians, the NEA grant ensures that America 250 is not only a reflection on our past but also an inspiration for our future. Students will experience firsthand how music connects generations and communities, strengthening civic pride through artistic excellence.
“The arts play a vital role in bringing communities together,” said Sherry Freeman, CEO of The Jackson Symphony. “We are honored to receive this support from the National Endowment for the Arts and proud to celebrate America 250 in ways that are accessible, meaningful, and deeply rooted in West Tennessee.”
“The National Endowment for the Arts is proud to support opportunities across the country for Americans to experience and participate in the arts while celebrating our nation’s history,” said Mary Anne Carter, chairman of the National Endowment for the Arts. “As we approach our country’s 250th anniversary, this is a moment to recognize the important role the arts continue to play in our lives, communities, and heritage.”
