Karen Corbin, Chief Operating Officer of The Philly POPS, discussed the renowned orchestra’s mission and their perfromances that take us from well-known Broadway and patriotic classics, through Jazz, and world music.

She describes Philly POPS’ concerts as all about having fun and experiencing all kinds of musical genres performed by outstanding musicians and vocalists and well-known guest performers.

Led by Music Director and Principal Conductor David Charles Abell and Artistic Director for Jazz Terell Stafford, the Philly POPS are artists in residence at the Kimmel Center and they perform at The Met.   Beyond the Big Band and Broadway we’ve long known, the Philly POPS presents performances that reflect the diversity and interests of the city, exploring non-traditional instruments and composers.

She notes that the POPS are there for – and in – the community, from trios at community centers, to performances at the city’s most venerable events.   POPS in Schools – POPS in Schools@Home during the pandemic – is a supplemental music education program in 15 Philadelphia schools serving 3,000 students. For many students, it’s their first introduction to brass and stringed instruments.   Each school’s program is tailored to that location, including bilingual music education and after-school programs for Spanish heritage students.  All-City Jazz is the high school program for ten PSD schools which culminates in the All City Jazz Festival.

The Philly POPS Salute Series works with the USO, Philadelphia Police and Fire Department, regional Veterans organizations, community centers and schools for celebrations for our community. Salute performances recognize the service and sacrifice of the military, first responders and others who serve us, with special opportunities including free performances on Memorial Day, July 3 on Independence Mall, July 4 at Philadelphia’s Independence Day concert, and opening night of the POPS Christmas concert series in December.

Karen wrapped up with a look at the upcoming season that includes their final 50th Anniversary of a Beatles album—Let It Be – beginning March 11, new Star Wars concert in October and their annual holiday celebration  with 300 performers, three choirs and a Singing Santa.  January brings a Modern Broadway extravaganza and in February it’s a legacy Swing show with the music of the three divas of the era—Ella, Billie, and Dinah and conducted by Terell Stafford.   That will be followed by a singer-songwriter show featuring the music of James Taylor, Billy Joel and Paul Simon, and a tribute to the late Stephen Sondheim.

For more information or tickets visit phillypops.org