Mission Statement
The Howey Music Series expands access to exceptional jazz and classical music by presenting world-class performances and free educational programming in Central Florida communities with limited arts infrastructure. Through concerts in unique venues and inclusive educational experiences, we inspire audiences of all ages, foster a love for the arts, and ensure the vitality of jazz and classical traditions for future generations.
Breathing New Life into Musical Treasures
Nearly 100 years ago, William J. Howey, founder of Howey-in-the-Hills, invited the New York City Opera Company to perform an open-air concert at the Howey Mansion. More than 16,000 people attended—a powerful reminder of how music can bring communities together.
The Howey Music Series carries that legacy forward. Since 2018, we have presented high-caliber jazz and classical performances in historic and nontraditional venues, reaching thousands of people across Central Florida. Every concert includes an educational component, inviting audiences of all ages to engage with music more deeply.
In the spirit of William J. Howey’s gift to his community, we are committed to making great music accessible and keeping these traditions alive for generations to come.
The Howey Music Series expands access to exceptional jazz and classical music by presenting world-class performances and free educational programming in Central Florida communities with limited arts infrastructure. Through concerts in unique venues and inclusive educational experiences, we inspire audiences of all ages, foster a love for the arts, and ensure the vitality of jazz and classical traditions for future generations.
Breathing New Life into Musical Treasures
Nearly 100 years ago, William J. Howey, founder of Howey-in-the-Hills, invited the New York City Opera Company to perform an open-air concert at the Howey Mansion. More than 16,000 people attended—a powerful reminder of how music can bring communities together.
The Howey Music Series carries that legacy forward. Since 2018, we have presented high-caliber jazz and classical performances in historic and nontraditional venues, reaching thousands of people across Central Florida. Every concert includes an educational component, inviting audiences of all ages to engage with music more deeply.
In the spirit of William J. Howey’s gift to his community, we are committed to making great music accessible and keeping these traditions alive for generations to come.
"The most amazing thing about Howey is the Howey Music Series. Imagine a Sunday afternoon, carrying your fold up lawn chairs, bringing wine and food and sitting listening to very professional musicians perform; or inside in the magnificent hall, trios and quartets playing Mozart and Brahms, and using a gorgeous grand piano. And the concerts are well designed. Recently they have been sold out which tells you that many people from around Lake County want to hear music well performed. The best part is walking across the highway from our home, onto the grounds of the Mansion, and listening to a terrific concert, then walking home. Takes about 5 minutes. We all marvel that this is taking place in our tiny rural town."
— Riki Turofsky, retired professional opera singer
— Riki Turofsky, retired professional opera singer
|
Emily Heumann
|
Emily Heumann is a Florida native who serves as the Executive & Artistic Director of the Howey Music Series. A passionate advocate for the arts, she previously served four years on the organization's Board of Directors, including terms as Secretary and Vice President, before being appointed Executive & Artistic Director in 2023.
Under Emily's leadership, the Howey Music Series has expanded its artistic programming, developed new community partnerships, and launched educational outreach initiatives throughout Central Florida. She is particularly passionate about creating meaningful connections between artists and audiences through the organization's signature blend of intimate parlor concerts, educational programs, and large-scale community events. Emily is committed to preserving the organization's tradition of artistic excellence while increasing access to high-quality musical experiences for audiences of all ages.
In addition to her work as an arts administrator, Emily is an accomplished mezzo-soprano who has gained recognition for her “delicious vocals” (Arts + Culture Texas Magazine) and “credible” storytelling (Orlando Sentinel). She has performed with organizations including First Coast Opera, The Villages Philharmonic Orchestra, Rec Room Arts, St. Petersburg Opera Company, Operativo Houston, and Opera Orlando. Emily is also an active educator and serves on the voice faculty at the College of Central Florida.
Emily lives in Clermont, Florida, with her husband, composer Dr. Eric Heumann, and their children.
Under Emily's leadership, the Howey Music Series has expanded its artistic programming, developed new community partnerships, and launched educational outreach initiatives throughout Central Florida. She is particularly passionate about creating meaningful connections between artists and audiences through the organization's signature blend of intimate parlor concerts, educational programs, and large-scale community events. Emily is committed to preserving the organization's tradition of artistic excellence while increasing access to high-quality musical experiences for audiences of all ages.
In addition to her work as an arts administrator, Emily is an accomplished mezzo-soprano who has gained recognition for her “delicious vocals” (Arts + Culture Texas Magazine) and “credible” storytelling (Orlando Sentinel). She has performed with organizations including First Coast Opera, The Villages Philharmonic Orchestra, Rec Room Arts, St. Petersburg Opera Company, Operativo Houston, and Opera Orlando. Emily is also an active educator and serves on the voice faculty at the College of Central Florida.
Emily lives in Clermont, Florida, with her husband, composer Dr. Eric Heumann, and their children.