USM Partners for the Arts to Host Pops in the Park

Wed, 09/06/2023 - 01:27pm | By: Mike Lopinto

Partners for the Arts (PFTA) presents Pops in the Park, a showcase of popular music performed by The University of Southern Mississippi’s (USM) Symphonic Winds with special guests Spirit of Southern and USM Jazztet.

Pops in the Park brings a brand-new concert going experience on Tuesday, Sept. 26 at 5 p.m. at Southern Station in Spirit Park on the Hattiesburg campus.

Pops in the Park will showcase the incredible talents of the USM Symphonic Winds, conducted by Dr. Colin McKenzie, as they perform popular music from jazz to pop, rock to big band, film scores to the great American songbook to Broadway hits.

“We are working hard on a repertoire which will be enjoyable by audiences of all ages, in collaborations with our friends in the jazz program as well as Spirit of Southern,” said Dr. McKenzie, director of the School of Music.

Pops in the Park offers two concert enjoyment options. First, experience the FREE event for all ages by spreading a blanket, snacking, and relaxing while enjoying the performances. Second,  Partners for the Arts members can purchase a ticket to the PFTA VIP experience ticket for $50. Tickets include VIP tent seating with tables and chairs provided; gourmet picnic meal prepared by Southern Oaks Catering; a collectable wine glass; t-shirt and swag bag; wine, champagne and soft drinks. VIP tickets are limited to PFTA members over the age of 21.

Proceeds from Pops in the Park will provide vital support to the university’s arts programs and students. PFTA secures scholarships, mentoring opportunities for students, and the creation and production of art at USM. Events like Pops in the Park ensure that PFTA can continue to support the success of Southern Miss performance ensembles and the talented students and faculty who participate in them.

“Partners for the Arts is an incredibly important organization in our community which is focused on supporting the terrific work ongoing in our arts programs throughout the University,” said Dr. McKenzie. “As conductor of the Symphonic Winds and director of the School of Music, I am honored to have the opportunity to work with PFTA as we continue to explore new ways to engage our community around our arts programs!”

Pops in the Park is the first event hosted by PFTA for the fall 2023 season and the first hosted under the new chair, Anna Rush.

 “As the new chair of Partners for the Arts, it is exciting to bring something new to Hattiesburg. Once again, the community has been so receptive to partner with us to help us bring this outdoor concert from the School of Music to life,” said Rush. “Come see our student musicians perform our favorite music, and thank you to our sponsors who helped make it happen!”

Visit Partners for the Arts for ticketing information.