Southern Miss Symphony Orchestra Unveils 107th Season, "Iconic"
Wed, 07/15/2026 - 09:37am | By: Mike Lopinto
Led by Gregory Wolynec, director of the School of Music’s Symphony Orchestra, the 2026-27 season celebrates music that has shaped culture and inspired generations, combining beloved masterpieces, immersive theatrical experiences, student artistry and monumental choral collaborations.
"These are works that people will fall in love with and remember for a lifetime," said Wolynec. "Each concert offers a different kind of experience, but together they celebrate the amazing power of great music to bring people together and uplift the human spirit."
Opening Night! takes the stage Sept. 24 and features Rossini's instantly recognizable "William Tell" Overture and Ravel's hypnotic "Boléro," two works whose melodies have become part of popular culture. The program also includes Wagner's luminous "Prelude to Lohengrin" and Jeffrey Wood's moving "Different Bodies."
Just in time for Halloween, Fright Night! spooks audiences Oct. 29 with an orchestral journey into the macabre. Audiences will encounter the skeletal dance of Saint-Saëns' "Danse Macabre," the chilling sonorities of Penderecki and Berlioz's groundbreaking “Symphonie Fantastique,” a fever dream of obsession, hallucination and supernatural terror that remains one of the most dramatic works ever composed.
The season continues in November with one of the most talked-about musicals of the 21st century, “Natasha, Pierre & the Great Comet of 1812.” Hailed as one of the most innovative musicals since “Hamilton,” this immersive production surrounds audiences with music, movement and emotion.
The beloved Holiday Choral Spectacular returns in December, bringing together the Southern Chorale, Concert Choir, Spirit of Southern, Hattiesburg Choral Union and orchestra for one of the Pine Belt's favorite holiday traditions. The concert also features the world premiere of Richard Burchard's “In the Bleak Midwinter,” written especially for Southern Miss.
February's Future Stars concert features winners of the prestigious William T. Gower Concerto Competition performing with the orchestra. Each year, this audience favorite showcases the artistry emerging from the Southern Miss School of Music, whose students represent countries around the world.
The season culminates May 6 with Ode to Joy!, featuring Beethoven's “Symphony No. 9.” Performed by the full Symphony Orchestra and Hattiesburg Choral Union, the monumental work provides a fitting conclusion to the "Iconic" season.
"For 107 seasons, our Symphony Orchestra has served as one of Mississippi's premier cultural institutions, connecting students, faculty, guest artists and audiences through transformative musical experiences," said Dr. Colin McKenzie, director of the School of Music. "The 2026-27 season continues that tradition while inviting the community to experience some of the most celebrated music ever written."
Season subscriptions are available now through the Southern Miss Ticket Office. Individual tickets go on sale Sept. 5, 2026.
For more information about the “Iconic” season and tickets, visit the 2026-27 Symphony Orchestra season page.
About the School of Music
The School of Music at The University of Southern Mississippi is the state’s flagship music program and
a destination campus for the study of music across the region, the United States and
the world. Housed within the College of Arts and Sciences, the school offers bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral degrees and has earned a national
and international reputation for excellence. Its distinguished faculty members are
active performers and educators who appear on stages from local communities to major
international venues. The School of Music is home to acclaimed band, choral, orchestral,
jazz, opera and musical theater ensembles and provides extensive solo and chamber
music performance opportunities. Students regularly perform at regional, national
and international events and work with leading guest artists in preparation for careers
as 21st century performers and educators.