Jackson Allred

Jackson won first prize in the 2023 Undergraduate Wind and Percussion Conducting Competition at Georgia State University. He has participated in the National Orchestral Institute with Marin Alsop and James Ross, and was personally invited to audit the Aspen Music Festival and Aspen Conducting Academy in summer 2024 by Music Director Robert Spano.

When asked why he conducts, Jackson’s answer is always the same: Community. He views the orchestra as a group of individuals that come together to connect to a broader community, joining people with each other, their emotions, and the deeper meaning of life. His passion for this work comes from his love of all people and his commitment to helping them grow both as musicians and individuals, believing everyone should have the opportunity to have their voices represented in the classical music space. This dedication drives his various efforts, including leading a partnership between the GSU School of Music and the Georgia Aquarium for paid student performances, co-conducting a concert of music by living Costa Rican composers, and helping to shape and develop the next generation of musicians with the ASYO.

In addition to conducting, Jackson is an accomplished pianist, vocalist, and timpanist, with a background in church and school choirs, bands, and orchestras. He is dedicated to making music accessible to all communities.

Outside of his music career, Jackson enjoys working as a Maintenance Diver at the Georgia Aquarium, engaging in outdoor activities like hiking and horseback riding, and caring for his two dogs. He is grateful for the steadfast support of his wife, family, and friends in pursuing his music.