MURFREESBORO, TN (WGNS) - The Tennessee Philharmonic Orchestra is gearing up for a season finale that’s carrying more excitement than usual. Not only will the April 23 concert spotlight one of America’s most iconic musical works, but it will also introduce the community to TPO’s new permanent conductor after several years of searching. Click Play Above Article to Hear the Interview by WGNS' Bart Walker, who spoke to TPO Operations Director Stephanie Lawson. 

The concert begins at 7:00 p.m. Thursday, April 23, 2026, at Belle Aire Baptist Church on North Rutherford Boulevard. The program, titled Rhapsody in Red, White and Blue, leans into the upcoming America 250 celebration with a lineup of American composers, anchored by George Gershwin’s Rhapsody in Blue. It’s a piece that never loses its shine, with those sweeping melodies and jazz‑infused rhythms that seem to lift an audience right out of their seats. This time, Matthew Phelps will both conduct the orchestra and take the piano solo, a combination that promises a memorable performance.

Phelps is no stranger to Nashville’s music scene. A nationally recognized conductor, pianist, organist, and educator, he brings a résumé that stretches across the region’s major arts organizations. He served as Artistic Director of Collegium Cincinnati, now leads the acclaimed Vocal Arts Nashville and directs music at West End United Methodist Church. His work with Vocal Arts Nashville has pushed the boundaries of choral performance, including Nashville’s first full presentation of all six Bach motets and multiple premieres by living composers. He has also conducted for the Nashville Ballet, the Nashville Concerto Orchestra, and the Mozart Birthday Festival Orchestra, earning a reputation for performances that are both meticulously prepared and emotionally rich.

But the biggest news comes from TPO itself. Director of Operations Stephanie Lawson shared that after several years of searching, the orchestra has officially offered the permanent conductor position to Phelps — and he has accepted!

TPO President Jane McNulty encouraged the public to attend the season finale not only for the music, but to welcome the orchestra’s new artistic leader.

Tickets are $35 for adults and $10 for students, and are available on-line at tnphil.org. Any remaining tickets will be sold at the door. The concert will be held at Belle Aire Baptist Church, 1307 N. Rutherford Blvd. in Murfreesboro. Click Play Above Article to Hear the 6-minute Interview by WGNS' Bart Walker, who spoke to TPO Operations Director Stephanie Lawson (photo below).

 Click Play Above this Article to Hear the 6-minute Interview by WGNS' Bart Walker.