Mississippi Symphony Orchestra

The Mississippi Symphony Orchestra (MSO), the largest professional performing arts organization in Mississippi, performs over 120 concerts annually for more than 75,000 attendees. Founded in 1944 by Maurice Thompson, the orchestra's inaugural concert was held at the Hotel Heidelberg in Jackson. Under the leadership of its first conductor, Theodore Caskey Russell, the MSO initiated programs such as school string instruction, outdoor pops concerts, and children's concerts. The Symphony League, established in 1955, played a crucial role in the organization's growth. Subsequent conductors, including Lewis Dalvit and Colman Pearce, expanded the orchestra's reach and repertoire. In 1989, the Jackson Symphony Orchestra was renamed the Mississippi Symphony Orchestra to reflect its statewide influence. The MSO's educational programs engage over 17,000 public school children annually, and its Youth Orchestras nurture young talent. Currently led by Music Director Crafton Beck, the MSO continues to thrive with a robust budget supported by grants, individual donations, and the Jackson Symphony League. Celebrating its 75th anniversary in the 2019-20 season, the MSO remains a vital cultural institution in Mississippi.