Meridian Symphony Orchestra

The Meridian Symphony Association (MSA), based in Meridian, Mississippi, is a cornerstone of the local arts and cultural scene. The association is responsible for overseeing the operations and activities of the Meridian Symphony Orchestra (MSO), which has been delivering outstanding classical music performances for over six decades. The MSO has a rich tradition of presenting concerts that showcase the works of both historic and contemporary master composers, in addition to hosting family-friendly events, such as the beloved annual Peppermint Pops. Under the baton of Maestro Peter Rubardt, who also serves as Music Director for the Pensacola Symphony Orchestra, the Meridian Symphony Orchestra has continued to flourish. Maestro Rubardt's 23-year tenure in Pensacola has been marked by artistic excellence and strong community engagement, which he brings to his leadership role in Meridian. His initiatives have included pops concerts, family concerts, and chamber orchestra concerts in local churches, all of which have broadened the orchestra's support base and raised its profile within the community. The MSA is dedicated to extending the orchestra's reach beyond the concert hall through various educational and outreach programs. These include the successful Strings Program, the annual Link Up partnership with Carnegie Hall, the Symphony Fun Fest, and numerous other educational initiatives throughout the year. The association's efforts are supported by a generous community of patrons, endowments, grants, and foundations, which help cover the administrative and operational costs. The Meridian Symphony Orchestra's influence is felt across the East Mississippi region, and the MSA is committed to honoring its heritage while also planning for its future, with the goal of enhancing the quality of life for all. The vision of the MSO's founders continues to inspire current supporters and volunteers who work tirelessly to make each concert season possible. The MSA also spearheads the community campaign MeridianSounds, which aims to unite the city's residents, businesses, and organizations through a shared love for Meridian. This initiative highlights the city's attractions, from its cuisine (MeridianSoundsDelicious) and small businesses (MeridianSoundsSupportive) to the sense of belonging it offers residents (MeridianSoundsLikeHome). The campaign encourages community involvement through social media using hashtags like #MeridianSounds and #MeridianSoundsAmazing. A Brief History of the MSO: The Meridian Symphony Orchestra was established in 1961 through a collaboration between Livingston State University, the Adult Education Division of Meridian Junior College, and the Meridian Public Schools' String Program. The MSO's inaugural concert was held on April 11, 1962, and featured an ensemble of 45 musicians, playing to an audience of over 1,200 at the Meridian Junior College auditorium. The orchestra has been actively involved in educational outreach since 1972 when it presented its first free children's concert for the Lively Arts Festival. The MSO's first Pops concert took place in 1981, and by 1985, the MSO Chamber Singers were organized. The 1990s saw the expansion of the MSO's Strings Program into Lauderdale County schools. The MSO has been recognized for its innovative programming, receiving an ASCAP award from the American Symphony Orchestra League in 1996. It was also named the Distinguished Community Arts Agency for Mississippi by the Mississippi Alliance for Arts Educators. A significant milestone occurred in 2010 when the MSO received a $100,000 endowment from the Phil Hardin Foundation and relocated to the Phil Hardin House. In 2020, the MSO moved its administrative offices to Main Street Meridian, further integrating itself into the heart of the community. The Meridian Symphony Association and the Meridian Symphony Orchestra continue to be a vital part of Meridian's cultural life, echoing the harmony between the city's rich history and its vibrant present.