Media coverage outside Jacksonville has highlighted the growing national profile of Courtney Lewis, music director of the Jacksonville Symphony. In a 2025 review, Chicago Classical Review described Lewis as someone who “elicited solid contributions from every department of the orchestra,” and noted his conducting style as “lucid of beat, firm of rhythm, articulate of gestures.” Another critic, Nona Rapotan, commented on his performance with Romania’s George Enescu Philharmonic Orchestra, calling it “an expression of a rare combination of playfulness and depth.”
Matthew Marcin, Board Chair for the Jacksonville Symphony, said: “Courtney’s vision and leadership have propelled the Jacksonville Symphony forward in remarkable ways. His contract extension reflects the Board’s confidence in his ability to inspire, challenge and elevate the orchestra. We are excited for what the next several seasons will bring as he continues the Symphony’s artistic trajectory.”
Lewis is known internationally for his clear musical expression and creative programming. He has worked with major orchestras such as the Los Angeles Philharmonic, Minnesota Orchestra, Dallas Symphony Orchestra, Royal Philharmonic Orchestra, Grant Park Orchestra, George Enescu Philharmonic Orchestra and Hallé Orchestra. Before joining Jacksonville Symphony in 2015/16, he was Assistant Conductor at the New York Philharmonic and held leadership roles with both Minnesota Orchestra and Boston’s Discovery Ensemble.
Since arriving in Jacksonville for his first season in 2015/16, Lewis’ work has been characterized by energetic performances with stylistic range and emotional impact. The renewal of his contract through 2032 aims to help continue advancing the symphony’s mission to enrich Northeast Florida through high-quality symphonic music while maintaining its role as a leading cultural institution in the region.
The Jacksonville Symphony is North Florida’s main nonprofit performing arts group. It presents live concerts at Jacoby Symphony Hall within the Jacksonville Center for the Performing Arts as well as other locations throughout Northeast Florida. Led by President and CEO Steven Libman alongside Music Director Courtney Lewis, it reaches more than 155,500 people each season across over 95 performances. The organization also provides youth music instruction through its educational programs.
