Jacksonville Symphony Christmas Concert Draws Stars, Families to Rammelkamp Chapel

The Jacksonville Symphony Orchestra staged its annual holiday program Christmas Songs and Bells at 3 p.m. on December 11 at Illinois College’s Rammelkamp Chapel. The concert featured the Bells of Peace handbell choir from Peace Lutheran Church in St. Louis, directed by former Jacksonville resident Burnell Hackman, and internationally acclaimed soprano Christine Brewer. Brewer joined the program after a scheduling conflict sidelined the Jacksonville Symphony Chorale and conductor Garrett Allman phoned Brewer to fill the gap.

Program highlights included the Bells of Peace performing The First Noel and Still Still Still, and Brewer singing seasonal standards including O Holy Night and White Christmas, plus Over the Rainbow, a signature selection she has performed with the orchestra before. Organizers added a Santa appearance during intermission to enhance family engagement and broaden the audience beyond traditional concertgoers.

The ticket structure combined a market price point with an access policy. Adult tickets were $20 while student admission was free, with tickets sold online at jaxsym-il.org and at the door. That pricing approach reduces financial barriers for younger residents and aligns with long term audience development strategies aimed at cultivating future patrons and supporters of local arts institutions.

The guest lineup had immediate cultural and economic implications for Morgan County. Bringing a Grammy award winning artist to a small city raises the visibility of local programming, which can attract regional attendees and potentially increase ancillary spending at nearby restaurants and shops on concert days. Featuring a handbell choir led by a former local resident reinforced community ties and showcased regional talent networks that support touring and collaborative projects.

Beyond the seasonal entertainment value, the concert illustrates a broader trend in community arts programming. Combining marquee performers with family friendly elements and targeted pricing is a strategy aimed at sustaining attendance and building future demand. Residents interested in upcoming performances can find information and tickets at jaxsym-il.org.