MURFREESBORO, TN (WGNS) - The Tennessee Philharmonic Orchestra wrapped up its 44th season Thursday night (4/23/2026) with a burst of patriotic color and a whole lot of hometown pride. The America 250 concert, “Rhapsody in Red, White and Blue,” featured music that was 100 per cent from American composers. It filled Belle Aire Baptist Church with energy, applause, and several well‑earned standing ovations. The evening felt like one of those Murfreesboro nights when the community shows up big, and the orchestra feels every bit of that support.
TPO Board President Jane McNulty stepped to the microphone with a message that drew cheers of its own. “As we close season 44, thanks to each of you for making it a success,” she said. “We are especially excited to announce that tonight’s guest conductor, Matthew Phelps, will lift the baton as the TPO conductor with season 45.”
IT’S OFFICIAL — Phelps Is New Conductor
For many in the audience, the announcement felt like a natural next step. Matthew Phelps is already a familiar name in Nashville’s music circles. He’s a nationally recognized conductor, pianist, organist, and educator whose résumé stretches across some of the region’s most respected arts organizations. He has led Collegium Cincinnati, currently directs the acclaimed Vocal Arts Nashville, and serves as Director of Music at West End United Methodist Church.
His work with Vocal Arts Nashville has pushed choral performance into bold territory, including Nashville’s first complete presentation of all six Bach motets and multiple premieres by living composers. Add in appearances with the Nashville Ballet, the Nashville Concerto Orchestra, and the Mozart Birthday Festival Orchestra, and it’s clear why TPO is excited to welcome him to the Heart of Tennessee.
Looking Ahead to Season 45
- The new season opens Tuesday, Oct. 27, 2026, at 7 p.m. with a CHAMBER SERIES concert at the Center for the Arts on West College Street.
- The orchestra then moves to First United Methodist on Friday, Nov. 6, 2026, for the VETERANS SALUTE, part of the MASTERWORKS SERIES.
- December brings the CHRISTMAS SPECTACULAR on Thursday, Dec. 3, 2026, at Belle Aire Baptist.
- The VALENTINE CONCERT returns Feb. 11, 2027, to the Center for the Arts, CHAMBER SERIES.
- Fri., March 20, 2027 at 11AM with a morning CHAMBER SERIES performance at the Center for the Arts, 110 W. Main St., Murfreesboro.
- Season 45 closesat 7PM on Thursday, April 22, 2027, back at Belle Aire for the MASTERWORKS finale.
Stronger Than Ever
Like many arts organizations, TPO has weathered financial challenges in recent years. But thanks to loyal supporters, dedicated musicians, and a community that believes in live orchestral music, the symphony is entering Season 45 on stronger footing than ever—something not every orchestras nationwide can say right now.
- MASTERWORKS SERIES season tickets are $120, or $40 per individual concert for adults and $10 for students.
- CHAMBER SERIES tickets are $35.
All are available at TNphil.org.
Sponsor a Musician
TPO is also inviting the community to “Sponsor a Musician” for the 2026–2027 season. Every dollar goes directly toward musician compensation, making an immediate and meaningful impact. Levels range from $250 for a Section Player to $4,000 for a TPO Trio sponsorship.
More information is available at TNphil.org, where the orchestra continues its mission of bringing world‑class music to the Heart of Tennessee.
