One of the questions I am occasionally asked is, “Why does a symphony orchestra perform Pops concerts?”
The answer is simple. Pops concerts help us fulfill our mission in ways that classical concerts alone cannot.
For many people, a Pops concert is their very first experience with a live orchestra. They may come to hear the music of Queen, John Williams, Broadway, or the music from their favorite movies. What they discover is something much bigger. They discover the incredible sound, artistry, and excitement of a live symphony orchestra.
Those first experiences often become lasting relationships. Today’s Pops patron may become tomorrow’s subscriber to a Beethoven symphony or a Mahler masterpiece. Great orchestras do not ask audiences to choose between classical and popular music. Instead, they invite everyone to enjoy the extraordinary experience of live orchestral performance.
Pops concerts also strengthen our community. They bring together families, friends, and people of every generation. Grandparents attend with grandchildren. Young couples come on a date night. Students hear an orchestra live for the very first time. Music becomes a shared experience that crosses generations and backgrounds.
There is also an important practical side. Successful Pops concerts help provide the financial stability that allows orchestras to present ambitious classical repertoire, support music education, and continue serving their communities. Every ticket sold and every new audience member helps make our entire season stronger.
As Music Director, I believe our responsibility is both to preserve the great orchestral tradition and to introduce new audiences to it. We are not replacing one kind of music with another. We are simply opening more doors and welcoming more people inside.
Whether your favorite composer is Beethoven, John Williams, Dolly Parton, Duke Ellington, or Freddie Mercury, there is a place for you in the Symphony of Southeast Texas.
After all, great music has always brought people together. That is what a symphony orchestra is all about.
