Our Programming
MYSO offers robust programming with top notch professional music education and performance opportunities that are designed to teach proper technique, inspire musical excellence, build confidence, and ultimately change and effect the lives of Mississippi's youth. We systematically develop our musicians through a year-long program that is approximately 24 weeks in length that includes rehearsals, sectionals, concerts, and other relevant programming. MYSO has consistently developed some of the state's finest musicians, many of whom have entered music programs all over the world.
Rehearsals
Musicians are required to attend weekly rehearsals. Rehearsals are an opportunity for musicians to improve their music skills, technique, and orchestral development in preparation for concerts and other music events. There are approximately 12 rehearsals in the fall and 12 rehearsals in the spring. MYSO follows the local school calendars for Hinds, Madison, and Rankin counties and does not rehearse around major school holidays.
Sectionals
Sectionals are an invaluable opportunity for musicians to receive supplemental, specialized training that promotes orchestral development and cooperation. These are sessions where musicians practice with their instrument group and music and technique is stressed just for that instrument group (e.g. first violins, second violins, cellos, etc). Participation is required. Sectionals are for one hour and orchestra rehearsals immediately follow.
Community Performances
MYSO has performed for a number of organizations including Boys and Girls Clubs, Sunnybrook Children's Home, The Ballet Mississippi, The Children's Museum, Jackson Public Schools, the Mississippi Symphony Orchestra, the University of Mississippi Medical Center and other local venues such as nursing homes and retail outlets. MYSO is committed to community outreach through music and actively seeks opportunities to share orchestral music to the people of Mississippi.
Pepsi Pops
Pepsi Pops is an annual program of the Mississippi Symphony Orchestra that takes place at the Ross Barnett Reservoir's Old Trace Park. It is an evening filled with fun, food, and fireworks. The public is encouraged to bring their picnic baskets and enjoy a rousing concert of patriotic marches and popular music performed by MSO. MYSO orchestras participate each year in the pre-concert entertainment.