The Jacksonville Symphony is starting 2026 strong with powerhouse performances of classical, pops and film music. Guests can experience the incredible music of Anton Bruckner, John Williams and several pop artists in Jacoby Symphony Hall throughout January. Explore below and view the entire season at JaxSymphony.org.
January 2026 Schedule:
“Bruckner’s Majestic Eighth”
The Jacksonville Symphony presents “Bruckner’s Majestic Eighth” on Jan. 16 and 17 at 7:30 p.m. in Jacoby Symphony Hall as part of its Florida Blue Classical Series. Led by Music Director Courtney Lewis, the program showcases Anton Bruckner’s monumental work of grandeur and introspection.
The program will run for one hour and 30 minutes with no intermission, providing audiences with a nonstop journey of Bruckner’s orchestration. Composed during a period of personal turmoil and artistic opposition, this work is vast in scale and spiritual in character. Shaped by the composer’s deep religious faith, the work unfolds patiently, building towering musical structures that move from mystery toward transcendence.
Across four movements, the symphony progresses with a sense of inevitability. The opening rises from quiet tremolos to powerful climaxes, the Scherzo balances relentless energy with lyricism, and the Adagio offers one of Bruckner’s most expansive and moving slow movements. The finale draws together themes from the entire work in a sweeping conclusion.
“The Eighth Symphony provides access to a realm untouched by any other music I know,” said Lewis. “This is a space containing the deepest questions spiritual questions, and in my opinion, many of the answers.”
Tickets are available at JaxSymphony.org or by calling the Box Office at 904.354.5547. This concert is part of the Florida Blue Classical Series.
“Star Wars: The Empire Strikes Back in Concert”
7 p.m. Jan. 23 and 24
After the destruction of the Death Star, Imperial forces continue to pursue the Rebels. After the Rebellion’s defeat on the ice planet Hoth, Luke journeys to the planet Dagobah to train with Jedi Master Yoda, who has lived in hiding since the fall of the Republic. In an attempt to convert Luke to the dark side, Darth Vader lures young Skywalker into a trap in the Cloud City of Bespin.
Presentation licensed by Disney Concerts. All rights reserved.
Tickets: https://my.jaxsymphony.org/overview/star-wars-empire
“Silly Love Songs: McCartney, Cher, Whitney & More”
11 a.m. and 7:30 p.m. Jan. 30, 7:30 p.m. Jan. 31
Love them, laugh at them or sing along — some love songs are too good to resist! The Jacksonville Symphony and a lineup of powerhouse guest vocalists bring you a night of unforgettable No. 1 hits from the past 50 years. Featuring songs made famous by Paul McCartney, Cher, Whitney Houston and more, this concert is a celebration of music that has topped the charts and captured hearts. Whether you’re a hopeless romantic or just here for the hits, “Silly Love Songs” is the perfect way to share the music you love with the people you love alongside the Jacksonville Symphony. Tickets: https://my.jaxsymphony.org/overview/silly-love-songs
