When acclaimed cellist Patrice Jackson and MSO Conductor Crafton Beck refer to Russian composer Dmitri Shostakovich, the name quickly becomes “Shosty” – musicians’ shorthand for convenience, surely, but also one of affection it seems. “When you have a piece as wonderful as some of his symphonies and concertos, you feel like you have a relationship with the man,” Beck said. For Jackson, an indelible moment has linked them for decades.
Cellist Patrice Jackson has always stood out, taking top prize at the national 2002 Sphinx Competition, performing with multiple symphonies, contributing to Broadway musicals on NBC, and accompanying top stars such as Stevie Wonder, Kanye West and Alicia Keys.
Mississippi Symphony Orchestra’s first Pops concert of its 80th season is a hometown celebration of the first order, as Jackson-based guest artists Jacktown Sons make their MSO debut. Stirring R&B classics meet symphonic splendor in an evening guaranteed to energize.
When Tyler Kemp looks at his own musical background, he sees a pitch-perfect path to his solo in Mississippi Symphony Orchestra’s opening Bravo concert. Classical, folk and jazz piano all play a part in his personal musical mix, just as the styles weave a wonderful thread through Margaret Bonds’ Spiritual Suite.
Mississippi Symphony Orchestra’s opening Chamber concert “Beloved Baroque” is a magnet for many to indulge in the rich charm of early music masterworks that stir the soul and lift the heart. But, as MSO proves yet again on September 7 at St. Andrew’s Episcopal Cathedral, there’s always something new to bring to the table.
The Mississippi Symphony Orchestra marks its 80th year with “A Season Spectacular.” The mighty oak tree that traditionally symbolizes this milestone anniversary couldn’t be more fitting for an institution with such deep community roots, a performance schedule that branches out across the state, and a repertoire and guest artist roster that reach around the world.
Pepsi Pops, on May 10 at Old Trace Park on the Barnett Reservoir, delivers its usual infectious mix of marvelous melodies by the Mississippi Symphony Orchestra and a charming outdoor setting to enjoy them. This year, as the captivating tradition reaches its 43rd year, the concert also brings a prime chance to recognize the 75th season of the Mississippi Youth Symphony Orchestra – MSO’s educational arm and a vital stake in our community’s music for the future.
“Vibrant Echoes,” Mississippi Symphony Orchestra’s final chamber concert of the season, April 27 at Tougaloo College’s Woodworth Chapel, celebrates the rhythmic thread of Black musical traditions and influences in America, from the late 19th century clear through to contemporary times. Its relevant setting, at the historically Black college that played a key role in America’s civil rights struggle, enhances the resonance.
Joel Thompson’s Seven Last Words of the Unarmed is a searing reach into the human heart and a powerful cry for social justice. The Atlanta-based composer’s choral work is the centerpiece for MSO’s “Symphony in the Community” spring concert, 3 p.m. Sunday, April 21, at Cade Chapel M.B. Church in Jackson. Giving it voice is the 55-member-strong Mississippi Valley State University Choir, led by MVSU Director of Choral Activities Brandon Cash.
Dannel Espinoza was just a tyke when he started the path that would become his forte. His parents offered the option of karate, baseball or piano when he was 3 1/2 or 4. “I decided to take up piano,” he said. The instrument became a staple of his south Florida childhood, until he reached school band age, took after his older brother, and took up the saxophone.
