investment

5+ Questions with LAS Advisory Committee Member Jennifer Marco

The Longworth-Anderson Series (LAS) has always been shaped by people who bring both a love of music and a genuine investment in community, creativity, and connection. Jennifer Marco is a wonderful example of that spirit. Since becoming involved with LAS, she has been a thoughtful presence behind the scenes—bringing fresh ideas, enthusiasm, and a willingness to support the series however she can.

Jennifer’s background spans both the technical and creative worlds. Professionally, she works in digital health and technology, while her earlier experiences in live music production at Riverbend Music Center gave her a firsthand appreciation for the work that goes into creating memorable concert experiences. Beyond her professional life, she has also dedicated time to fundraising, volunteer coordination, and community-focused events throughout Cincinnati.

In this week’s Q&A, Jennifer shares more about her experiences, her connection to live music, and what excites her most about being part of the LAS community.

What first drew you to get involved with Memorial Hall and LAS?

It was really a combination of community, music, and wanting to give back locally in a meaningful way. I have always felt enthusiastic about supporting and staying connected to the local arts scene. The more I learned about the organization and its mission, the more it genuinely felt like the perfect fit for me personally. As an avid supporter of music, I felt I could bring a unique perspective and fresh lens to the LAS committee.

I am currently a healthcare IT professional, but I also had a background working at Riverbend Music Center in production support many years ago, and that experience deepened my appreciation for live music and the impact it can have on people and communities. I value the opportunity to serve and contribute to Cincinnati’s cultural landscape while helping to create an experience that brings people together.

What LAS concert(s) have you attended? Which did you enjoy most and why?

I’ve attended Christian McBride, esperanza spalding, and, most recently, Madison Cunningham. I enjoyed esperanza’s show the most because it felt healing and immersive. I resonate with how she blends jazz, storytelling, and experimentation in a way that evokes deeper feelings. She took me on an unforgettable sonic journey!

What makes the Memorial Hall experience different from other venues in the city?

Memorial Hall offers a unique experience: an intimate concert with exceptional acoustics set within an architecturally and culturally rich historic gem that exudes its own charm.

As someone with a strong marketing lens, what do you think more people should know about LAS?

The series offers a trifecta experience: a beautifully curated evening showcasing Grammy-nominated and winning performers and bands, spotlighting local musicians at our pre-concert reception, and the opportunity to support the local restaurant community.

What album would you take to a desert island?

Thievery Corporation - “The Temple of I&I”

What song makes you want to dance?

Idris Muhammad - “Could Heaven Ever Be Like This (Chris Lorenzo, Walker & Royce Remix)”

Who is the most underrated musician, in your opinion?

Hiatus Kaiyote—their artistic vision deserves a much brighter spotlight than it currently receives.

Memorial Hall Voted "Best Concert Venue" by Cincinnati Magazine!

We're thrilled to announce that Hamilton County Memorial Hall, “home” of the Longworth-Anderson Series, was recently voted our region's "Best Concert Venue" by Cincinnati Magazine readers.

To be voted as such in a city bursting with excellent venues is an incredible honor.  There's also some poetry in receiving this recognition as we prepare to celebrate the building's 10th anniversary post-renovation.

Thanks to the collaboration of Cincinnati Memorial Hall Society (CMHS—our nonprofit helping to guide and preserve Memorial Hall since 2004), Cincinnati Center City Development Corporation (3CDC—operations and programs manager), and Hamilton County (Memorial Hall's owner), this historic building underwent an $11.2-million comprehensive renovation and modernization in 2015-16, resulting in the first-class performance and event space it is today.  Over the past three years, we partnered on a building assessment study and capital campaign to raise an additional $1.1 million from the Friends of Memorial Hall, including $500,000 from Hamilton County, for high-priority projects including:  roof system replacement; proscenium lighting upgrades; restoration of historic doors, windows, and decorative painting; and safety improvements.

Preservation of this 1908 Beaux Arts treasure is ongoing, and each of Memorial Hall's partners (CMHS, 3CDC, and Hamilton County) plays a pivotal role in its continued success. CMHS’s leadership in advocacy, fundraising, and our popular Longworth-Anderson Series undoubtedly contributed to this award.

As patrons and supporters of Memorial Hall, this recognition belongs to YOU, our community, as much as it does to us.  Thank you for your investment in the venue we all love, and for trusting our team to protect this "perfect gem" of a theater for generations to come.