Junior Symphony Ball Shatters Records with Unforgettable
“Party With a Purpose” at Gilley’s Dallas
A Legacy of Student Leadership and Philanthropy
The Junior Symphony Ball (JSB) Party With a Purpose proved once again why it’s one of the most anticipated events for high school students across the metroplex. On February 1, Gilley’s Dallas was transformed into an electrifying hub of music, dancing, and entertainment as over 2,850 sophomores, juniors, and seniors from over 25 schools came together for a sold-out celebration—marking the largest turnout in JSB history. The Steering Committee was comprised of more than 1000 students.
True to its founding vision of “student-led, parent-guided” leadership, the event has grown from a small gathering of schools to an expansive, metro-wide celebration—while remaining committed to its core mission of supporting music education.
From the moment the doors opened, the energy was palpable. The night featured high-energy music, professionally staffed gaming tables, thrilling raffles, exciting prizes, and plenty of refreshments to keep the party going.
At the heart of the night’s electric atmosphere was none other than Detroit native Brandon Williams—better known as 13LACKBEARD. As the official DJ of the Dallas Cowboys, he’s a master at creating an unbeatable energy, and he brought that same stadium-level excitement to JSB. Known for blending the legendary dance beats of Detroit and Chicago, 13LACKBEARD has shared the stage with icons like Beyoncé, The Eagles, Taylor Swift, Post Malone, Kaskade, and Tiësto. His set kept the crowd moving and the dance floor packed all night long.
In keeping with tradition, the evening’s dress code embraced Texas flair, with gentlemen sporting Texas Tuxedos and ladies dazzling in cocktail dresses paired with boots. A sea of sleek black dresses was punctuated by bold pops of color.
Behind the scenes, the event committee worked tirelessly to ensure seamless logistics, crowd control, and a smooth check-in process for the massive turnout. Their meticulous planning and enthusiasm ensured an unforgettable experience.
The lineup of the 2025 Co-Chairs represents schools across Dallas: Tanner Krug, Jesuit College Prep of Dallas; Gracelyn Nix, Highland Park High School; Jack Steed, Highland Park High School; Clara Tolleson, Episcopal School of Dallas; Johnny Willingham, Episcopal School of Dallas; Emerson Mayes, Bishop Lynch High School; Teddy Fleiss, St. Mark's School of Texas; Avery Black, Ursuline Academy; Zack Shapiro, Parish Episcopal School; and Kate Davidson, The Hockaday School.
Their supportive and proud moms are: Holly Krug, Jonika Nix, Maygan Steed, Rebecca Black, Jojo Fleiss, Tricia Davidson, Amie Mayes, Kacy Tolleson, April Willingham, and Jori Shapiro.
True to the Party with a Purpose theme, co-chairs Tanner Krug and Gracelyn Nix shared, “It was a privilege to help raise funds for the Young Strings of the Dallas Symphony Orchestra while having fun!”
Their moms Holly Krug and Jonika Nix echoed the sentiment, adding, “Chairing an event that supports the Dallas Symphony Orchestra alongside your child is truly one for the memory books.”
More than 100 parent volunteers played a vital role in making the event a success, including Brett Levy, who supported her high schooler while also preparing for another prestigious symphony occasion, the Dallas Symphony Orchestra League’s Presentation Ball on February 15, where her daughter will make her debut.
A special sponsor for the event was Gracelyn’s Hope, a charity founded by co-chair Gracelyn Nix five years ago. “My goal is to raise funds for children and their families, get other kids involved in the fun, and create special moments for children in hospitals or shelters so they can enjoy their childhood,” said Gracelyn.
Additional sponsors include Mr. Tuxedo, Miron Crosby, Sewell, Nightly, Emily & Ashley, Clayton-Waggoner Properties, Raising Cane’s and Highland Park Village.
Now in its 67th year, JSB is the longest-running fundraiser of the Dallas Symphony Orchestra League (DSOL), supporting vital DSO outreach programs such as Young Strings and Young Musicians.
JSB 2025 was more than just a party—it was a record-breaking night of purpose, passion, and philanthropy.
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Photos by Deborah Brown
Key to photos:
1 2025 JSB Co-Chairs: Gracelyn Nix, Tanner Krug, Avery Black, Zach Shapiro, Teddy Fleiss, Kate Davidson, Clara Tolleson, Jack Steed, Emerson Mayes, Johnny Willingham