Springfield, MO – October 21, 2024 – The Springfield Symphony Orchestra (SSO) is proud to announce that it has been honored with the Arts Ambassador Award at the 2024 Ozzie Awards. In addition to this award, SSO Musician and Volunteer, Janet Hopkins, was awarded with Volunteer of the Year. Janet has been a dedicated violinist in the orchestra for over 44 years and has volunteered in the Symphony offices for 20 years to help assist with the business operations.
The Arts Ambassador Award acknowledges the SSO’s dedication to enriching the cultural landscape of Springfield through exceptional musical performances, community engagement, and educational programs. For 90 years, the orchestra has been a pillar of the SWMO arts scene, bringing classical music to life and fostering a love for music in audiences of all ages.
“We are deeply honored to receive this award,” said Jennifer Cotner-Jones, Executive Director of the Springfield Symphony Orchestra. “Our mission has always been to inspire and connect the community through music, and this recognition affirms the hard work and passion of our musicians, staff, and supporters. We are grateful to the Ozzie Awards and to the Springfield community for this incredible honor.”
The Ozzie Awards, presented annually by the Springfield Regional Arts Council, highlight achievements across various artistic disciplines. This year’s event brought together leaders, artists, and advocates to celebrate the vibrant cultural life of Springfield.
The SSO remains committed to delivering world-class music experiences and expanding its reach through innovative programming and collaborations. Upcoming highlights include the continuation of the 2024-2025 concert season, featuring a mix of classical masterworks, contemporary compositions, and special events designed to engage and inspire the community.
For more information about the Springfield Symphony Orchestra and upcoming performances, please visit www.springfieldmosymphony.org.
The Springfield Symphony Orchestra is a non-profit 501(c)(3) corporation and an Equal Opportunity Employer. Additional funding for all Springfield Symphony Orchestra programming is provided by the Missouri Arts Council, a state agency. For more information, visit www.springfieldmosymphony.org.
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