The City of Sanford is proud to debut Sanford Soundstage, a new initiative bringing live, intimate musical performances to City Hall. Inspired by the concept of “desk-style” performance series popularized nationally. Sanford Soundstage highlights local talent while showcasing how City government can provide essential services and support the arts and cultural engagement. As part of this exciting initiative, the City is also unveiling the new Sanford Soundstage logo, designed to reflect music, sound, and innovation.
Performances will include live music and short artist interviews, shared across the City’s platforms, including YouTube, Sanford Says (a City of Sanford podcast), Facebook, Instagram, and the City’s quarterly newsletter, The Clockwork Chronicle. Musicians are selected for talent, originality, and local connection, with performances offered pro-bono to promote the local music scene. Artists gain exposure, professional video content, and the opportunity to be part of a high-profile City initiative celebrating local culture.
The debut Sanford Soundstage recording will take place Thursday, October 16, from 4:00–4:30 p.m., featuring talented jazz musicians from Seminole State College of Florida Music Department. The session offers a preview of their upcoming free Jazz Fall Night concert on Tuesday, October 21 at 7:30 p.m. at Ritz Theater Sanford in downtown Sanford.
Sanford Soundstage recordings will be closed sessions held in the City’s Communications Office at City Hall. A limited number of City employees may view the live performances on a first-come, first-serve basis as part of an internal engagement effort. All City services and regular operations will continue without interruption during recording times.
Musicians are selected by the City’s Communications Office in partnership with local arts organizations and talent bookers, ensuring a diverse representation of Sanford’s creative community. Musicians interested in future Sanford Soundstage opportunities may contact the City of Sanford Communications Office at Communications@SanfordFL.gov for more information.
“Sanford Soundstage is an exciting example of how local government can support the arts while engaging our community,” said Mayor Art Woodruff. “By providing a platform for talented musicians to share their work, we’re celebrating creativity and strengthening the cultural and economic vitality of our City.”
“We are thrilled that our talented students have the opportunity to perform for the inaugural kick-off of Sanford Soundstage,” said Dr. Michele Cuomo, Dean of Arts and Communications, Seminole State College. “This collaboration highlights the incredible talent at SSC and strengthens the connection between the College, the City of Sanford, and the broader Sanford community.”
Monthly soundstage recordings will continue following the debut session.
