Page 65 - South Mississippi Living - December, 2023

GIVING BACK
The Mississippi Gulf Coast Symphony has been bringing music to the area for 62 years. The mission is to entertain, inspire, and educate through the unifying power of music. The organization presents classical and pops concerts along with educational programs and
the youth orchestra for students. Music as an art form enriches a community’s quality of life and brings diverse groups together.
“When my family and I were preparing to move to the Coast a decade ago and learned there was a professional orchestra right here, it spoke volumes to us about the type of community we would be calling home,” says Will Shurley, president of the symphony board. “To be able to come together and enjoy high-quality performing arts and to see the orchestra’s educational programs for children and youth is a source of constant joy.”
Concerts have something for everyone and this year’s schedule is no exception. Opening night featured a
guest violinist joining the orchestra to showcase timeless classical music. Last month’s Peppermint Pops was a treat for the whole family and brought together the Hattiesburg Choral Union and local choruses.
On February 24, 2024, it’s Beethoven and Blue Jeans, always a crowd pleaser. Guest soloist Kathryn Mueller will join the orchestra.
Something new will happen on March 16 as the
orchestra presents A Night at the Movies. Area high school choruses will also perform. Music from the movies will include composers John Williams, Michael Giacchino and others.
The music of George Gershwin on April 27 will celebrate the virtuosity of this American composer with guest pianist Albert Cano-Smit on the Steinway concert grand piano.
Concluding the season will be Sounds by the Sea, a free concert for the community, on May 25 at Jones Park in Gulfport.
story by Lynn Lofton
SOUTH MISSISSIPPI Living | www.smliving.net
December 2023 | 65
Mississippi Gulf Coast Symphony
11975 Seaway Rd., Ste. 233, Gulfport 228.896.4276 www.msgulfcoastsymphony.net