Episode 141 – The Ashland Symphony Orchestra

Episode 141 – The Ashland Symphony Orchestra

How do people find hope in the darkest times? Keeping Ashland Healthy turns to an unexpected ally: the Ashland Symphony Orchestra. Host David Ross chats with executive director Martha Buckner, who jokes that her job is “everything but play and conduct”, as she explains how live music can lift moods, ease stress, and help people feel less alone.

The conversation is relaxed, funny in places, and very down-to-earth, even while it touches on big themes like grief, community, and access to joy. Martha talks about how audiences often feel music deeply, from goosebumps to tears, and how a concert can be “a unique shared experience” you’ll never have in the exact same way again.

She shares how people sometimes fear attending after losing a partner, yet the darkened hall and accepting atmosphere mean, “Sometimes you need that release… we’re not going to judge you.” Accessibility is a huge focus. Children and college students can attend for free, and a ticket voucher scheme lets people receiving mental health services get in at no cost, quietly and without stigma.

For those on benefits like EBT, SNAP, WIC or Medicaid, tickets are just $5, while kids remain free. The aim is simple: financial stress shouldn’t decide who gets to experience beauty, connection, and live music. There’s also plenty of practical reassurance for anyone who feels the symphony “isn’t for them”.

There’s no dress code for the audience, clapping is welcome whenever the music stops, and Martha happily insists that people should “wear what you’re comfortable wearing” and just come and listen. For anyone working on their mental health, recovery, or simply trying to feel a bit more human, this conversation shows how something as simple as sitting in a concert hall with others can bring comfort, joy, and a sense that you still belong.

Could music be one of the tools you add to your own wellbeing toolkit?