Meridian Symphony Orchestra celebrates 50 years of classical performances in a country music town

When the Meridian Symphony Orchestra formed, most people in the area were far more into country rather than classical music. After all, Meridian is the birthplace of Jimmie Rodgers, who is known as “the Father of Country Music.” “This was a country music town in 1962,” says Shirley Stodard, who played violin with the Meridian [...] [...]