Florida Theatre Partnership Connects Douglas Anderson Students with Music Icons in Unforgettable Learning Experiences
April 21, 2026 — Jacksonville, Fla. — The Florida Theatre recently partnered with the Douglas Anderson School of the Arts (DA) music program to give students the unique opportunity to experience world-class musicians live on stage. Through the generosity of the Florida Theatre, more than 30 Douglas Anderson students and their parents received complimentary tickets to attend performances by legendary artists Herb Alpert and The Tijuana Brass & Other Delights on January 14; acclaimed violin soloist Itzhak Perlman on January 21; internationally renowned jazz trumpeter Chris Botti on February 22; RENT In Concert on March 10; and Pat Metheny on March 17.
Following the Chris Botti performance, students were treated to a truly memorable experience: a small post-show question-and-answer session with Botti himself. Hosted backstage at the Florida Theatre, the conversation gave students the chance to ask questions about his career, creative process, and life as a touring musician. The discussion offered a rare glimpse into the professional world of a celebrated performer and allowed students to engage directly with one of the leading artists in contemporary jazz.
These opportunities were made possible through the generous support of Interim President/VP of Programming Kevin Stone and the team at the Florida Theatre, whose continued support helps connect Jacksonville’s young artists with the city’s thriving professional music community. By providing access to live performances and facilitating personal interactions with visiting artists, the theatre helps to inspire the next generation of performers and music professionals.“For students studying music at Douglas Anderson, experiences like these serve as an important complement to their classroom instruction. Seeing master musicians perform at the highest level — and hearing firsthand about the dedication and artistry behind their success — provides invaluable perspective for young performers as they develop their own creative paths,” said Ted Shistle, Director of Bands at Douglas Anderson School of the Arts.
To learn more about the Developing Artists Foundation and its work supporting Jacksonville’s next generation of artists, visit developingartistsfoundation.org. For a full list of upcoming shows and productions at the Florida Theatre, visit floridatheatre.com.
Photo courtesy of Kevin Stone of The Florida Theatre
