A Legacy of Student Leadership and Philanthropy

The Junior Symphony Ball (JSB) once again lived up to its reputation as a “party with a purpose,” delivering an unforgettable night for high school students across the metroplex. On January 31 Gilley’s Dallas pulsed with excitement as an estimated 3,000 sophomores, juniors, and seniors representing over 35 schools gathered for a sold-out celebration—making this year’s event one of the largest JSB in its history. More than 1,000 students served on the Steering Committee, underscoring the scale and student-led energy behind the evening. 

Rooted in its founding philosophy of “student-led, parent-guided” leadership, JSB has evolved from a small gathering into a metro-wide tradition. Even as it continues to grow, the event remains steadfast in its mission: supporting music education while empowering students to take the lead. 

From the moment guests arrived, the atmosphere was electric. Attendees danced the night away to nonstop music while enjoying professionally staffed gaming tables, lively raffles, coveted prizes, and an array of refreshments that kept the celebration going strong. 

Anchoring the night’s high-octane energy was Detroit native Brandon Williams, known professionally as 13LACKBEARD. As the official DJ of the Dallas Cowboys, he brought a stadium-worthy vibe to the dance floor, seamlessly blending the iconic sounds of Detroit and Chicago. Having shared the stage with superstars including Beyoncé, Taylor Swift, The Eagles, Post Malone, Kaskade, and Tiësto, 13LACKBEARD delivered a set that kept the crowd moving from start to finish. 

Fashion was a highlight in its own right, with JSB’s signature Texas-inspired dress code on full display. Gentlemen embraced the classic Texas Tuxedo, while ladies sparkled in cocktail dresses paired with boots. A striking mix of sleek black ensembles and vibrant pops of color filled the room. 

Behind the scenes, more than 100 dedicated parent volunteers worked alongside the event committee to manage logistics, ensure smooth check-in, and maintain a safe, well-orchestrated experience for the record-setting crowd. Their commitment and careful planning helped create a night that was as seamless as it was memorable. 

The lineup of the 2026 Co-Chairs represents schools across Dallas: Clara Erwin (Highland Park High School), Lucy Galbraith (Ursuline Academy), Meghan Jackson (Parish Episcopal School), Teige Mitchell (Jesuit College Preparatory of Dallas), Peter Rubi (St. Mark's  School of Texas), Brooks Strey (Bishop Lynch High School), Jack Sumner (Highland Park High School), Mary Bradley Sutherland (The Hockaday School), Michael Woram (Jesuit College Preparatory of Dallas), and Stella Wynne (The Episcopal School of Dallas). 

Their supportive and proud moms are: Dansby Erwin, Lauren Sutherland, Michelene Galbraith, Alyson Jackson, Kristin Mitchell, Tiffany Rubi, Courtenay Strey, Kelsie Sumner, Dana Woram, and Tia Wynne. 

Sponsors include Nightly, Mister Tuxedo, Carol Vig Photography, and Bluejack National.

Now in its 68th year, the Junior Symphony Ball remains the longest-running fundraiser of the Dallas Symphony Orchestra League (DSOL). It continues to support vital youth programs including Young Strings and Young Musicians. True to its founding vision of “student-led, parent-guided” leadership, JSB has grown from a small gathering of local schools into one of Dallas’s most anticipated youth events—while staying true to its core mission of advancing music education and community engagement.

Junior Symphony Ball

Junior Symphony Ball was formed to introduce Dallas area students to the Dallas Symphony Orchestra, a cultural gem to our city, and in turn, teach them about giving back to the community by hosting the student-led fundraiser.

Participation on a JSB committee teaches high school teens valuable leadership, organizational, and team-work skills while raising significant dollars for a worthy cause. JSB creates a unique opportunity for students from a multitude of backgrounds to work  together for a common goal and a positive contribution to their greater community. Both private and public schools from all across the Metroplex organize, participate, fundraise and attend the JSB.

JSB is a time honored tradition and a great first foray into giving back to the community and supporting music education on a larger scale. Proceeds benefit Dallas Symphony Orchestra’s  community  outreach  and education programs,  including  Young Strings  and Young Musicians that will benefit over 14,000 students, making a positive impact for under- served youth in Dallas and throughout North Texas. 

Follow JSB on Social Media

Facebook  https://www.facebook.com/JSBdallas/ Instagram @jsbdallas

Dallas Symphony Orchestra League

The Dallas Symphony Orchestra League is an organization of volunteers who support the Dallas Symphony Association through service, education and fundraising activities.

Since 1946, the DSO League has worked to support the Dallas Symphony Orchestra through service, education and fundraising efforts. The Dallas Symphony Orchestra League has contributed more than $25 million in support of the Dallas Symphony Association’s Community Outreach and Education programs, which help bring the wonder of music to thousands of youths and adults in the Dallas area.

Beneficiaries 

Funds raised by the Dallas Symphony Orchestra League support transformative DSO programs, including: 

• The Cecil and Ida Green Youth Concert Series, which introduces Dallas youth to the inspiring world of classical music through accessible concerts at the Meyerson. Each year, more than 10,000 children participate in these experiences.
• DSO Cares, which brings the wellness benefits of music to seniors in living facilities, hospitals, community centers and more. Each performance showcases a chamber ensemble of DSO musicians that is free for attendees and community partners.
• The Kim Noltemy Young Musicians and Young Strings programs, which annually provide free instruments and instruction to 400 children primarily from Southern and East Dallas. Collectively, these programs have served more than 6,800 students and outpace similar youth programs with highly intensive training and a 100% high school graduation and college acceptance rate.
• Bach’s Lunch, an ongoing adult education series of free, informal talks designed to connect music lovers through a shared passion for classical music.