MURFREESBORO, TN (WGNS) - The Tennessee Philharmonic Orchestra wrapped up its 44th season Thursday night (4/23/2026) with an evening of favorites totally from American composers--America 250's “Rhapsody in Red, White and Blue”. 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.

IT’S OFFICIAL — Phelps Is New Conductor

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 new Music Director/Conductor starting season 45."

Matthew Phelps is a nationally recognized conductor, pianist, organist, and educator--a leader in Nashville’s music circles. His 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.

Phelps 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

• Tue., Oct. 27, 2026, at 7PM: CHAMBER SERIES performance at the Center for the Arts (110 W. College Street).
• Fri., Nov. 6, 2026 at 7PM: VETERANS SALUTE at First United Methodist (265 W. Thompson Ln.) MASTERWORKS SERIES.
• Thu., Dec. 3, 2026, at 7PM: CHRISTMAS SPECTACULAR on Thursday, Dec. 3, 2026, at Belle Aire Baptist (1307 N. Rutherford Blvd.) MASTERWORKS SERIES.
• Thu., Feb. 11, 2027, at 7PM: The VALENTINE CONCERT at the Center for the Arts (110 W. College St.), CHAMBER SERIES.
• Fri., March 20, 2027, at 11AM with a morning CHAMBER SERIES performance at the Center for the Arts (110 W. Main St.).
• Thu., April 22, 2027, at 7PM: Season Finale at Belle Aire Baptist (1307 N. Rutherford Blvd.) MASTERWORKS SERIES.

TPO Is Stronger Than Ever

TPO has weathered the financial challenges of recent years--all thanks to loyal supporters, dedicated musicians, and a community that believes in live orchestral music. The local 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.