JACKSON, TN — In response to the July 1, 2025, release circulated by the Nashville and Memphis chapters of the American Federation of Musicians, The Jackson Symphony reaffirms its steadfast commitment to transparency, fairness, and artistic excellence as it continues a period of necessary and exciting organizational growth.

Contrary to implications in the union’s statement, The Jackson Symphony is not a union orchestra—a fact consistent with many of its regional peers, including the Arkansas Symphony, Paducah (Ky.) Symphony, and Owensboro (Ky.) Symphony. As a non-union organization, TJS has nonetheless consistently and in good faith adhered to industry standards in all artistic and administrative operations, especially throughout its recent audition process.

Embracing Change, Securing the Future

The Jackson Symphony has historically evolved in response to the needs of the Jackson community and its growing regional presence. Over the years, TJS has transitioned from a community ensemble to a freelance, professional orchestra.

Today, it is embracing its next chapter as a fully auditioned professional orchestra—astrategic and essential step designed to foster consistency, raise artistic standards, and meet increasing
demand across West Tennessee.

The recent audition process, overseen by new Music Director Paul Haas, included blind auditions for musicians who had performed in at least 50% of concerts over the past two seasons. This opportunity was extended as a courtesy to longtime freelance musicians—a level of accommodation not typically afforded under “industry norm” circumstances. The organization went further to ensure flexibility and access, offering multiple audition dates, personalized scheduling, and even remote audition options when needed.

Statements suggesting musicians were misled or removed from “positions” mischaracterize the nature of  The Jackson Symphony’s historic freelance structure. Freelance musicians were hired concert-to-concert, and no tenure or job security was ever implied or guaranteed. No musician was “demoted” or “removed”; those not selected for the newly created core ensemble were added to a substitute list for future opportunities, consistent with standard orchestral practice.

To Clarify

• All excerpts used in the audition process were standardized for each instrument, and auditions were held blind to ensure fairness.

• A diverse committee—made up of board members, community leaders, and musicians familiar with the orchestra—was assembled for the music director search, consistent with TJS’s freelance model at the time.

• Freelance musicians who had been contacted following the 2024–25 season and chose not to
participate in the audition process, created vacancies that were filled through open national auditions.

The Jackson Symphony is proud that the auditions drew a strong pool of candidates from across the United States, reflecting widespread interest in being part of our growing orchestra.

Looking Ahead

“Our commitment is to the people of Jackson and the wider West Tennessee region,” said Board President Greg Alexander. “We are proud of our long history, but we are even more energized by our future. This transformation is about building a consistent, high-level professional ensemble that reflects the incredible momentum we’re seeing in our community and on our stage.”

In the past year alone, The Jackson Symphony has seen unprecedented growth in ticket sales, donor support, and artistic ambition. The 2025–26 season, under the baton of Music Director Paul Haas, marks the launch of a fully auditioned orchestra—one that will deliver greater musical excellence, consistency, and service to its audience than ever before.

“While any transition brings change,” said Executive Director Sherry Freeman, “The Jackson Symphony remains confident these efforts will result in an even stronger institution—one capable of inspiring future generations and elevating the cultural landscape of West Tennessee.”

About The Jackson Symphony

Founded in 1961, The Jackson Symphony is West Tennessee’s premier professional orchestra, presenting innovative performances, youth music education, and community programming for more than 35,000 people annually. The 2025–26 season marks the beginning of an exciting new chapter with a fully auditioned orchestra and bold artistic vision.