North Mississippi Symphony Orchestra facts for kids
The North Mississippi Symphony Orchestra is a group of talented musicians who play classical music together. They are based in Tupelo, Mississippi. This orchestra used to be called the Tupelo Symphony Orchestra. They are the main orchestra that performs in Tupelo.
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How It Started
People in Tupelo really wanted their own symphony orchestra. So, they started working to make it happen! A lawyer named Wade H. Lagrone helped lead the effort to gather money and support from the community. Thanks to these efforts, the orchestra was created in 1971.
Who Leads the Orchestra?
The person who leads an orchestra is called the Music Director and Conductor. They choose the music and guide the musicians during performances.
Current Conductor: Steven Byess
Steven Byess is the current Music Director for the North Mississippi Symphony Orchestra. He has been leading the orchestra since 2006. Mr. Byess also works with other famous orchestras. For example, he is a conductor for the Detroit Symphony Orchestra. He also conducts opera at the Cleveland Institute of Music and in Los Angeles. He even conducts at an institute in Tel Aviv, Israel!
Past Conductor: Louis Lane
Before Steven Byess, Louis Lane was the conductor of the Tupelo Symphony Orchestra. He was a very respected conductor and even received a special award called the Mahler medal. Mr. Lane also worked with other big orchestras, like the Dallas Symphony Orchestra and the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra. In 2006, he became the orchestra's Music Director Laureate, which is an honorary title.
