MEMPHIS SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA

The Memphis Symphony Orchestra’s commitment to meaningful musical experiences is the heart of its past, present, and future. The MSO is an integral part of the cultural, educational, and economic life of Memphis and beyond and has been since 1952. Best known as the birthplace of blues and rock ‘n roll, Memphis also boasts a rich heritage of symphonic and classical music. In Memphis, music matters. Each year the MSO generates about $10.2 million for the local economy and creates 135 jobs. Operating with a $4.1 million budget, the 550-member MSO family brings symphonic music to more than half a million people annually, whether they tune in on the radio or television or attend a live performance. MSO works hand-in-hand with artistic organizations such as Stax Music Academy, Playhouse on the Square, Opera Memphis, Ballet Memphis, the Brooks Museum, and The Cultural Development Foundation of Memphis to push the limits of artistic invention and wow concert-goers with unique entertainment. Such bold programming has garnered national attention and awards in recent years. The MSO believes strongly in its responsibility to engage with the community. The American Symphony Orchestra League reports that the MSO is a national leader in providing free community service concerts -- and music education in the Mid-South owes much of its talent and resources to the Symphony. In addition to presenting dozens of educational concerts and events each year, the musicians of the MSO reach thousands of young music students by giving private lessons, visiting public and private elementary and secondary schools, and teaching courses at institutions such as Rhodes College, the University of Memphis, Vanderbilt University, and the University of Mississippi. MSO is taking community engagement to a level that has never been conceived of by an American orchestra. The Memphis Symphony forged partnerships with Soulsville and Federal Express to engage the community in mutually beneficial activities beginning with receptions, mentoring, and work presentations. Recognizing the opportunities for replicating the program in other orchestras, the Mellon Foundation awarded the symphony one of its four grants to ensure the future of American orchestras. The Memphis Symphony Orchestra family enriches the cultural appeal of the city, making Memphis a place where it is truly possible for everyone to “get into the music.”