Mississippi Symphony Orchestra cuts loose in its “Quad Fusion” concert Oct. 18, a first outing in the night club setting of Duling Hall and first concert primarily devoted to 21st century works. This is the music that perks up young ears and resonates with the rhythmic drive of current times, capturing a pulse that can’t be categorized or confined to a single genre. It’s the music emerging from urban hotspots across the country, where serious musicians and young composers gather to listen, jam, experiment and entertain audiences eager to hear the music of the moment.
Author: Mississippi Symphony Orchestra
MSO wins 2026 Excellence in Performing Arts Award!
The 38th annual celebration takes place February 12, 2026, at The Westin Jackson. We’re so honored to stand with this year’s fellow recipients: Jesse Robinson, Dottie Armstrong, Heather Christian, and Greg Harkins, each of whom has been recognized for their outstanding contributions to the arts in Mississippi.
Feels to Reels: Rach 2’s cinematic power
Sergei Rachmaninoff’s Symphony No. 2 commands the second half of MSO’s opening Bravo concert – “Orchestral Brilliance” – bringing a mighty and magnificent start to the flagship series that presents Mississippi Symphony Orchestra at its most grand.
Concert Updates — New Venues & Date Change!
MSO returns to Jackson Academy Performing Arts Center for its two fall Bravo concerts, as restoration continues at Thalia Mara Hall.
Taylor Shorey set to shine in ‘Beloved Baroque,’ in two Vivaldi bassoon concertos
“What the heck is that?” That was Taylor Shorey’s response as a young high schooler, when his band director first brought up the bassoon. Up to that point, he’d never heard of one. A saxophone player, Shorey had his eye on the oboe for a switch from sax, but the band already had a couple of good oboe players. Why not try the bassoon?
Announcing the 2025/26 Concertmaster!
MSO is proud to introduce Alexander Ilchev as our new concertmaster. This internationally acclaimed violinist brings a bold, expressive style and deep musical insight to the stage. We’re excited to have him lead the way in Season 81!
You’re Invited! MYSO Open House Aug. 5
Come discover what makes the Mississippi Youth Symphony Orchestra the premier musical home for young musicians in the tri-county area!
POI 2025 Recap: Magical week of music, mentorship and unforgettable performances!
The Premier Orchestral Institute returned to Millsaps College for a magical week of music, mentorship and unforgettable performances! With participants hailing from 17 countries, POI partnered with the Mississippi Symphony Orchestra to bring together a global community of musicians right here in Jackson, Mississippi.
MSO’s POI: A life-changing week for musicians, a festival of music for all
Mississippi Symphony Orchestra’s Premier Orchestral Institute each June is so much more than a music camp summer intensive to hone students’ skills. The esteemed strings workshop showcases world-class guest artists and faculty, pulling in a tourism element with its Music Festival of nightly concerts open to the public.
The charm of Pepsi Pops endures — 44 years of picnic-perfect appeal
In the fading light of day on the breezy shore of Barnett Reservoir, boats bob on the water, little kids bop in front of the musicians onstage and the Mississippi Symphony Orchestra delivers music of our memories at Pepsi Pops. Patriotic classics, movie themes, Billboard and Broadway hits are kicked up a notch by symphonic splendor and the laidback, outdoor charm of springtime in Mississippi.









