Author: Mississippi Symphony Orchestra

Pianist Tyler Kemp bonds with Bonds’ ‘Spiritual Suite’
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Pianist Tyler Kemp bonds with Bonds’ ‘Spiritual Suite’

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. “Margaret Bonds’ piece is diverse in the same way,” Kemp said. “It requires classical facility, but also the ability to play in folk and jazz idioms. My diverse background, training, and experience make me an ideal performer of this piece.”

viola da gambist Lisa Terry and Principal Trumpet Davan Sagara
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Beloved Baroque: sterling favorites, shiny new draws

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.

MSO season 80 strikes up the celebration September 2024 and runs through May 2025.
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MSO celebrates 80 and more, in A Season Spectacular!

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.

MYSO at Pepsi Pops
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The youthful spirit of Pepsi Pops is a tradition and a mainstay

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.

Pianist Steven Sachs
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Soloist Sachs, ensembles shine in Woodworth’s ‘Vibrant’ concert

“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.

Mississippi Valley State University Choir
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MVSU Choir, ‘Seven Last Words’ mark spring Cade Chapel matinee

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.

Project Fusion Saxophone Quartet
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Embracing the fun and freedom of the sax, in ‘Ultimate Fusion’ and beyond

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.