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What To Expect/FAQs

New This Season: Pre-Concert Talks Before Each Classical Concert

You're invited to attend engaging pre-concert talks led by new Music Director Paul Haas. These informal discussions will provide insight into the evening’s program and will include guest artists, members of the orchestra, and a few surprises.
Come learn more about the historical context, themes, and musical details of the works to be performed as well as what the artists love about the pieces they're playing. Designed to enrich the listening experience, pre-concert talks give audiences a deeper appreciation of the music and the stories behind it. 

Pre-Concert Talks
6:30 - 7:00 PM
Miss Tennessee Room
Carl Perkins Civic Center

Meet Opening Night Guest Artist, Willard Carter
Saturday, Nov. 1, 2025
Cocktails and Classics

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Meet & Greet with the Maestro

Join us in the lobby immediately following the concert for a chance to meet new Music Director Paul Haas. Say hello, speak with Symphony staff, take photos, and enjoy light refreshments provided by The Jackson Symphony League.

A cash bar will be available for post-concert toasts. 

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Most Frequently Asked Questions

 

#1  What do I wear to The Jackson Symphony?

You see a little bit of everything at the Symphony! But here are some tips:

 

Ideas for what to wear to a Classical Concert

Men: collared shirt or jacket if you prefer

Women: dress pants, skirt, or dress

Classical Concerts this Season include Virtuoso Unveiled, Cocktails & Classics, and The Romantic.

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Ideas for what to wear to a Pops Concert

Anything you would wear to a classical concert is fine, but depending on the theme, you might wear a costume, jeans, or even sequins! 

Pops Concerts this Season include Disney Tim Burton's The Nightmare Before Christmas, Holiday Pops - Lights, Camera, Action!, Valentine Pops - A Symphony Soirée, and One Vision: The Music of Queen.

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The most important thing is to wear what’s comfortable for YOU and to enjoy the concert. 

 

#2  Where do I park?

Beginning in 2025-26, all Jackson Symphony subscription concerts (excluding Starlight Symphony) will be performed at the Carl Perkins Civic Center, and ample free parking is available in the adjacent lot.​

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Carl Perkins Civic Center

400 S. Highland Ave | Jackson Tennessee

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Security will be on site for all concerts for your safety and convenience. If you need assistance getting to your car after a concert, don’t hesitate to ask.

 

#3  Will food and drinks be available at the concerts?

Yes! We are pleased to offer a variety of concessions for purchase in the lobby. Tables and chairs will be set up for the convenience of our balcony guests.​​​​​

Concession Options for 11/1/25

Cash Bar provided by Jackson's Kitchen & Catering

Candy, chips, soft drinks, water, etc. provided by Jackson's Kitchen & Catering

Other treats provided by Basil & Bourbon Catering, Sprinkle Me Sugar and Got Dough Cookies & More

 

#4  Is there a “wrong” time to clap at a concert?

No, but there are times when it can be confusing. 

The best visual clue that it's time to clap is after the music ends and the conductor turns to the audience to bow. This signals the piece is finished and not paused between movements. But the most important thing is to enjoy the concert, and if at any point you feel moved to express appreciation for a job well done, feel free!

 

#5  When should I arrive and how long does the concert last?

It’s recommended you arrive at least 30 minutes before a performance begins to have time for parking, finding your seat, and visiting concessions or restrooms. If you plan to purchase concessions or drinks, you may want to arrive even earlier. Ushers won’t seat latecomers once the music begins so if you arrive late, grab a drink and enjoy extra time in the concession area until intermission. Concert length varies and is usually printed in the program

           

Additional tips for enjoying your night at The Jackson Symphony:

 

  • Please enter through the front doors the Carl Perkins Civic Center and have your ticket or e-ticket ready to show a an usher upon entering the concert hall.  

  • If you need assistance with parking due to a disability, please contact The Jackson Symphony office for alternative arrangements at 731.427.6440.  

  • If you need to leave the building at intermission, you must do so through the front doors of the Carl Perkins Civic Center and re-enter through the lobby.  

  • If you need to enter or leave the auditorium while the orchestra is performing, please quietly close the door behind you as you exit or re-enter.

  • Please refrain from loud conversation while the orchestra is playing so you won’t disturb those seated around you. 

  • Please silence your cell phone during the concert.  

  • Reminder--all ticket purchases are final and non-refundable.

  • Please contact us with any questions regarding seating or anything else you need as you prepare to enjoy this Season's performances.  

 

Thank you for being our special guest and welcome to YOUR Jackson Symphony! 

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