With a December-long program to increase access to live music, the Louisville Orchestra is embracing the spirit of the season. Every ticket purchased between December 1 and December 31 immediately produces a free ticket for a community member who might not otherwise have the opportunity to attend a performance as part of its Buy One, Give One program.
The program, which is based on the Orchestra’s long-standing dedication to community involvement, invites supporters to attend a concert while directly promoting greater access throughout the area by matching each purchase with a gift. To ensure that locals of all ages can enjoy the Orchestra’s future programs, free tickets will be given out through local organizations, libraries and schools.
“This initiative speaks to the heart of what we do,” said Nathaniel Koch, Interim Executive Director of the Louisville Orchestra. “The Louisville Orchestra belongs to the community, and music has the power to create connections and foster belonging. Every ticket in this campaign represents not just a seat in the hall, but an opportunity for someone to experience the joy and inspiration of live music. We are grateful to our audiences for joining us in this mission.”
Expanding Access Through Music
Through its Community Rehearsal Night, OrKIDStra initiatives, neighborhood performances, and statewide tours, the Orchestra gave away almost 15,000 free tickets in 2025.
These efforts have brought performances into schools, senior centers, libraries and venues throughout Kentucky, introducing many residents to the Orchestra for the first time.
Donated tickets for performances in the 2025–2026 season will go to local groups, families, and students. Additionally, they will facilitate access to unique community events including matinee Coffee Series concerts that provide young audiences with a warm and instructive setting and an open rehearsal prior to the Eric Whitacre concert.
December buyers will be eligible to attend some of the Louisville Orchestra’s most anticipated concerts of the season. Highlights include Itzhak Perlman in Concert, Dolly Parton’s Threads, Teddy Abrams conducting Mahler’s Ninth Symphony, Rhapsody in Blue, and Appalachian Spring
How to Participate
Purchasing a ticket at LouisvilleOrchestra.org anytime from December 1–31 is all that’s required. Every eligible purchase activates a companion gift ticket, with no extra steps for the buyer.
This article appears in Dec. 1-31, 2025.