Ocala, FL The Reilly Arts Center and the Ocala Symphony Orchestra are proud to announce a transformative $300,000 commitment from Stan and Martha Hanson to establish the “Adam Hanson Bringing Music to the Community Fund.”
This newly created fund will ensure that everyone in our community, regardless of age, background, or financial means, can experience the joy and power of live music. Through the fund, community members will have the opportunity to attend orchestra rehearsals and performances, and participate in educational programs that bring the music beyond the stage of the Reilly Arts Center and directly into schools, neighborhoods, and community spaces.
“Stan and Martha have been friends of the Ocala Symphony and the Reilly since we first walked through the old city auditorium together more than 11 years ago. I am so happy that their support through establishing this important fund will advance and create music education and entertainment opportunities throughout our community” shared Music Director and Conductor, Matthew Wardell.
“The Adam Hanson Bringing Music to the Community Fund beautifully reflects our mission to connect people through music and ensure that everyone, regardless of background, can experience the magic of live performance,” said Natalie McComb, Executive Director. “We are deeply grateful to Stan and Martha Hanson for their extraordinary commitment to sharing the power of music.”
The fund will support several key organizational goals of the Ocala Symphony and Reilly Arts Center:
- Connecting the Community Beyond the Concert Hall
Supporting initiatives such as Symphony for Schools and community ensemble performances that bring live orchestral music directly to audiences across Ocala and Marion County. - Increasing Access and Engaging the Next Generation of Orchestra Lovers
Providing complimentary tickets for veterans, underserved and underrepresented groups, and youth, as well as supporting the Open Rehearsal program that offers a behind-the-scenes look at the orchestra in action. - Expanding Music Education and Access Through the Ocala Symphony Orchestra’s Community Music Conservatory
Providing scholarships for students with financial need and expanding opportunities for young people to engage with music in meaningful and lasting ways.
“Martha and I are very pleased to be provided the opportunity to utilize the Adam Hanson Better Communities Fund to support the expansion of music entertainment and education in our county,” said Stan Hanson. “Adam’s Music Fund will provide access to many individuals and groups that have not had the opportunity to take advantage of the excellent musical presentations available at the Reilly Arts Center.”
Through this generous gift, Stan and Martha Hanson will help to ensure that music continues to inspire, uplift, and unite the people of Marion County for generations to come.
About the Reilly Arts Center
Located just 5 blocks from Ocala’s Historic Downtown Square in picturesque Tuscawilla Park, the Reilly Arts Center is Ocala’s home for the arts and live entertainment. Featuring state-of-the-art acoustics and production equipment, the 705-seat venue hosts an eclectic assortment of events, concerts, meetings, and parties and has become a hub for the arts in Ocala. In addition to being the home of the Ocala Symphony Orchestra and producing local, regional and national acts, as the new flagship center for arts and culture in Ocala, the Reilly is committed to being an active and accessible venue in our community. The organization also brings live performances, movies, music, and art to Ocala’s Marion Theatre in Downtown Ocala. To learn more visit reillyartscenter.com.
