About Us
For over six decades, the Meridian Symphony Orchestra has been a focal point of arts and culture here in East Mississippi. Throughout its distiguished history, the MSO has maintained a tradition of producing great classical music concerts featuring the works of the master composers of the past and present as well as wonderful family programs like the annual Peppermint Pops - a favorite for hundreds of concertgoers.
The leadership of Maestro Peter Rubardt as Music Director of the MSO is a further reflection of our commitment to provide Meridian and the surrounding communities performances of beautiful music. Maestro Rubardt is now in his 23rd season as music director of the Pensacola Symphony Orchestra, where his tenure has been distinguished with artistic excellence on the stage and passionate support from the audience and the community. He initiated pops concerts, family concerts, and a series of chamber orchestra concerts in area churches, broadening the base of support and increasing the orchestra’s recognition throughout the community.
The administrative arm of the MSO, the Meridian Symphony Association, endeavors to expand its outreach into the community and to grow educational programs such as the highly successful Strings Program, Link Up (our annual partnership with Carnegie Hall), Symphony Fun Fest, and many other educational programs throughout the calendar year. These programs and other administrative operating expenses are generously supported by grants from our supportive community of patrons, endowments, grants and foundations.
The vibrant, artistic presence of the Meridian Symphony Orchestra is felt throughout the East Mississippi region and, as always, the Meridian Symphony Association will continue to pay tribute to its legacy as well plan its future with the sole purpose being to enhance the quality of life for everyone! The early work and vision of its founders inspire the efforts of the Meridian Symphony’s current supporters and volunteers who make every concert season possible.
#Meridian Sounds Amazing
There is so much to love about Meridian: good homes, good schools, delicious food, fabulous fashion, good jobs, strong community partners, high-level healthcare. Doesn't that sound amazing? Yes, Meridian Sounds Amazing! At the Meridian Symphony Association, we have come to realize that during the last sixty years the beautiful harmony between the old and new resounds in our city.
Our community campaign, #MeridianSounds, is an initiative to unite Meridian's residents, businesses, and community organizations through one shared interest: celebration of our city.
To our restaurants, maybe #MeridianSoundsDelicious.
To our small business owners, maybe #MeridianSoundsSupportive.
To our community members, maybe #MeridianSoundsLikeHome.
To us, #MeridianSoundsAmazing! To get involved, join in on social media: #MeridianSounds #MeridianSoundsAmazing #MSA
A Brief History Of The MSO
1961
1962
1972
1981
1985
1990s
1996
2000s
2010
2020
The Meridian Symphony Orchestra was formed in 1961 when Livingston State University, the Adult Education Division of Meridian Junior College, and the String Program of the Meridian Public Schools collaborated to create the Meridian Symphony Orchestra.
The MSO’s first concert took place on April 11, 1962 with an orchestra of 45 musicians. Over 1200 patrons were in attendance at the MJC auditorium!
Beginning a longstanding tradition of educational engagement, the MSO presented its first children’s free concert for “Lively Arts Festival” in 1972.
MSO’s first “Pops” concert took place at the Frank Cochran Center in 1981.
In 1985, the MSO Chamber Singers organized.
In the mid-1990s, MSO’s Strings Program expands into Lauderdale County schools.
The MSO was recognized in 1996 by the American Symphony Orchestra League with an ASCAP award for adventuresome programming.
The MSO was named the Distinguished Community Arts Agency for the state of Mississippi by the Mississippi Alliance for Arts Educators.The MSO Community Outreach Event involved 1,200 4th grade students in February 2007.
In 2010, the MSO received a $100,000 endowment from the Phil Hardin Foundation, moving to the Phil Hardin House.
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The MSO takes on Main Street Meridian in 2020, moving our administrative offices downtown.
Frequently Asked Questions
Symphony Office
You can find us in the heart of historic downtown Meridian adjacent to the Riley Center at 2120 5th Street, Suite A.
Our normal hours are 10 AM-4PM, Monday through Friday.
Box Office
The MSU Riley Center Box Office is open 1 hour before showtime on concert dates.
The Box Office is located at 2200 Fifth Street, Meridian MS 39301. The Box Office can be reached at (601) 696-2200.
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Admission Policy
Lobby doors open approximately 1 hour prior to curtain. We encourage you to arrive at least 30 minutes before the concert to find your seats. Latecomers will be seated at the discretion of the MSU Riley Center.
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Seating
Click here to view the MSU Riley Center Seating Chart.
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Dress Code
There is not a dress code, however the audience generally finds MSO concerts to be festive affairs. You will see everything from blue jeans (especially for Beethoven & Blue Jeans) and business attire depending on the concert.
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Concessions
Nonalcoholic and adult beverages are typically available at each concert for purchase.
Most concerts include a pre- or post-concert reception/party.
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Attendance
If you cannot attend a performance, please call the Symphony Office at (601) 693-2224. We can reprint your tickets for someone you designate or donate your tickets to others, such as active military, students, or members of the Boys & Girls Club.
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Performance Policies
All performances, artists, dates, and times are subject to change. Please check your tickets for time and date.
The use of cellular phones, audio/video equipment, cameras, and pagers are prohibited during all performances.
The MSU Riley Center is a smoke-free environment.
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The MSU Riley Center is fully accessible. Please call the Riley Center Box Office at (601) 696-2200 for assistance in seat selection accessible by wheelchairs/walkers or to request listening devices.
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While the MSO encourages children to attend concerts, we ask that parents/guardians please watch their children at all times.