Javier Colón was born on April 29, 1978, in Stratford, Connecticut. He attended Frank Scott Bunnell High School in Stratford, where he first began writing songs and cultivating his voice. After high school, he stayed close to home for his higher education, enrolling at the University of Hartford’s Hartt School. There, he earned a degree in music education while founding an acappella R&B group that performed at the Apollo Theater in Harlem — a formative experience that foreshadowed his future on big stages.

Following graduation, Javier joined the neo-funk ensemble EmCQ and later became lead singer for The Derek Trucks Band, touring nationally. He then embarked on a solo career, releasing albums and earning a devoted following—yet his breakthrough came in 2011 when he won the inaugural season of The Voice, earning wide acclaim and a national platform. Over the years, he has blended acoustic, soul, pop, and R&B into a distinctive sound, while remaining deeply rooted in his Connecticut community. In the spring of 2026, Javier returns to NBC to compete with his old coach, Adam Levine, in The Voice Allstars! We honor Javier at this event for his unflagging support of music education here in Hartford and beyond.

Presenting Sponsor — $25,000

• Top recognition as Presenting Sponsor on all event materials, press releases, and promotions
• 8 premium tickets to the Inspire Breakfast (with VIP Add On)
• Opportunity for a representative to provide welcome remarks at the event
• Logo prominently featured on event signage, website, and digital communications
• Recognition in HSO concert program book for the 2026–2027 season
• Opportunity to distribute branded materials to all attendees
• Dedicated social media spotlight post

Access to Opportunity Sponsor— $10,000

• Recognition as a Gold Sponsor in event promotions and signage
• 6 event tickets with priority seating (with VIP Add On)
• Logo inclusion on event webpage and digital communications
• Recognition in HSO concert program book for the 2026–2027 season
• Social media recognition
• Opportunity to include materials in attendee gift bags

Music Mentorship Sponsor — $5,000

• Recognition as a Silver Sponsor in event materials and signage
• 4 event tickets
• Logo displayed on event webpage
• Recognition in HSO concert program book for the 2026–2027 season
• Group thank-you recognition on social media

Prelude Sponsor — $2,500

• Recognition as a Community Sponsor on event signage
• 2 event tickets
• Name listed on event webpage
• Recognition in HSO concert program book for the 2026–2027 season

Together, we can inspire the next generation! Your sponsorship makes music education accessible to thousands of students across Greater Hartford, building confidence, creativity, and community through music.

For sponsorship opportunities, please contact: Mariel Christiana, Corporate & Foundations Relations Manager mchristiana@hartfordsymphony.org

Inspire Auctions

The Hartford Symphony Orchestra is proud to present the Inspire Auction this spring! Proceeds from both events will directly support the Symphony’s programs, including our concerts, education, and community engagement initiatives. These programs include our Discovery Concerts, one of which will be featured at our Inspire Breakfast on May 20, 2026.

Unique Items and Experiences

Our auctions feature a wide range of goods and services as well as fun, sometimes exclusive experiences. The HSO’s gift experts are known for curating once-in-a-lifetime opportunities that you won’t want to miss.

Stay tuned for more details about our Spring 2026 Inspire Auction. If you are interested in donating to the 2026 Inspire Auction- complete the Auction Donation Form. 

Together, with your support, we continue to bring world-class music to Greater Hartford and inspire thousands through the power of live symphonic music.

Joanne Berger-Sweeney

Sarah Burns

Hannah Granfield Horton & Barnaby Horton

Legrand

Jill Peters-Gee & Bob Bausmith

Karen Sprout