MURFREESBORO, TN - On Thursday night (12/4/2025), while a cold rain mixed with a hint of sleet chilled Murfreesboro on the outsideand, inside Belle Aire Baptist Church the Tennessee Philharmonic Orchestra and Chorus warmed the hearts with the spirit of Christmas. The sanctuary was packed—balcony and all—as longtime music educator and award‑winning conductor Terry Jolley led the “Sleigh Ride Spectacular.” From the crack of the whip to the neigh of horses, the first half of the evening carried listeners across snowy soundscapes from Russia to Europe and back home to the USA.

A Surprise from Dr. Laurence Harvin

Then came a moment that felt like history stepping back on stage. Dr. Laurence Harvin, the symphony’s founder and original conductor, was spotted in the audience. Slim and spry, he was invited forward to take the baton. His lively tempo drew cheers and a standing ovation, stirring memories of the orchestra’s early days.

The 50 Voice Chorus added Yuletide Cheer

The second half brought the full force of the 50‑voice Tennessee Philharmonic Chorus. Jolley, reminiscing about his childhood and his mother’s career as a music educator, shared a story about the seasonal novelty hit “I Want a Hippopotamus for Christmas.” Though he grew weary of the tune, his mother insisted her students sing it—because in 1953, it was a national sensation. The audience laughed and sang along in their hearts as the chorus revived the playful classic, first made famous by 10‑year‑old Gayla Peevey.

The evening carried a touch of tenderness as the concert was dedicated to the conductor’s mother, who had always delighted in the whimsical “Hippopotamus” song. In her honor, TPO Board President Jane McNulty presented a toy hippopotamus to the conductor, not just as a playful gesture but as a symbol of a gift made by orchestra and choral members to adopt a hippo through the World Wildlife Fund. It was a moment that blended humor, memory, and generosity, underscoring the spirit of community that filled the hall.

Another Christmas Concert 7:30 p.m. this Tuesday

And for those who weren’t able to attend “A Sleigh Ride Spectacular" last Thursday evening, there’s another chance to enjoy the music. The Tennessee Philharmonic Orchestra and Chorus will take the stage again this Tuesday evening at 7:30 p.m. at Smyrna First United Methodist Church, located at 301 Sam David Road in Smyrna. Admission is free, although a love offering will be received, making it an accessible opportunity for families and neighbors to gather once more in the glow of holiday music.

Then the Tennessee Philharmonic Orchestra and Chorus brought the crowd to its feet in a spirited finale, inviting the audience to be a part of the Christmas Carol Sing-A Long. With a playful wink, conductor Terry Jolley looked out over the packed house, and voices rose together in a jovial conclusion to what many described as a truly wonderful evening of holiday music.

The Philharmonic is already looking ahead to its next performance, a Valentine’s celebration titled “Sweetheart and Swing.” The concert will feature an evening of jazz at 7:00 p.m. on Thursday, Feb. 12, 2026, at the Center for the Arts 110 W. College St. in uptown Murfreesboro.

Tickets are available online at Tnphil.org.