A word from Maestro Chelsea Tipton on Celebrating 10 Years!
I am thrilled to be starting my 10th season with the Symphony of Southeast Texas. I can remember that first year-the variety of music that we played, the guest artists with which we worked, and the artistic quality of our musicians helped me realize that today, SOST has become a real treasure. Enthusiastic responses to our concerts show me that Beaumont audiences love this orchestra, a sentiment that gives me great pleasure as it motivates me and the orchestra beyond measure. This growth reflects the dedication and love for music our musicians bring to the stage of the Julie Rogers Theater, or wherever we perform. What a thrill to be at the center of such musical excitement.
Beaumont as a community is a different town than it was 10 years ago. Today, it seems there is always a concert or artistic event to attend every weekend. As I travel around America, be it New Haven or other cities to guest conduct, it is so encouraging to find that like so many major cities, symphonic music is at the center of a vibrant community. Our town’s artistic offerings have become part of the identity of our community.
SOST is blessed with so many talented musicians, all possessing special gifts. Sharing those gifts with an appreciative community provides such encouragement. SOST has grown over the past 66 years from an amateur orchestra to a fully professional ensemble, whether we’re playing a Beethoven Symphony, accompanying a local legend like Tracy Byrd, or playing music that is near and dear to us all, this is an ensemble that strives to reflect the interests of our community. These 10 years of music making, calling Beaumont “home” has been an absolute joy for me. I look forward to sharing that joy and the gifts of music with you during what I promise, will be an exciting season.
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