Harmony Through Time: Celebrating 86 Years of the Manchester Symphony Orchestra
By: Anne Gregory
In 1939, as Franklin D. Roosevelt served as president and John Steinbeck published The Grapes of Wrath, the world was on the brink of World War II. That same year, The Wizard of Oz and Gone With the Wind premiered in theaters. In Wabash County, Indiana, the Manchester Symphony Orchestra (MSO) was founded in partnership with what was then Manchester College.
Today, the MSO thrives in its 86th season as a cornerstone of the region’s vibrant performing arts culture. Its members include a mix of professional musicians, community players, and university students—many of whom are your neighbors, co-workers, and friends. They share a deep passion for music, striving for excellence and challenging themselves.
The MSO is dedicated to sharing the joy of music with the community through concerts, educational outreach, guest artists, diverse programming, and world premieres. Debra Lynn, a resident of North Manchester, continues as conductor and artistic director this season.
This season has everything, from classical favorites to fiddle improvisation to The Nutcracker ballet,” Lynn said.
The March 9, 2025, concert will feature improvisational fiddle traditions from Norway, Scotland, and Ireland that made their way to the Appalachians. It will showcase the world premiere of “Boomerang,” a new composition by Lynn in collaboration with SVER, a Norwegian folk music group performing at Cordier Auditorium at Manchester University. SVER will also serve as guest artists in residence, engaging with area schoolchildren, offering master classes, and presenting a recital.
On May 11, 2025, the concert at Cordier will celebrate “American Legends,” featuring Aaron Copland’s A Lincoln Portrait, Lynn’s Appleseed Variations, and Chickasaw classical composer Jerod Impichchaachaaha’ Tate’s Ghost of the White Deer.
Earlier this season, the MSO brought audiences “Back to the Classics” with a performance of Mozart’s Symphony No. 40 and selections from Stravinsky’s Pulcinella. They also collaborated with the Wabash Valley Dance Theater to present Tchaikovsky’s The Nutcracker, offering a magical holiday experience for all.
Each season, Lynn thoughtfully balances celebrated masterworks with works by underrepresented composers, intentionally including music by non-male and non-white artists. “I mix traditional works with others that deserve to be heard,” Lynn said. “You don’t have to be wealthy or live in a big city to experience great live music. We have it right here.”
Lynn has conducted at prestigious venues, including Carnegie Hall, Walt Disney World, and internationally at the Vatican in Rome and Basilica di San Marco in Venice. The MSO performs at both the Honeywell Center in Wabash and Cordier Auditorium. Throughout its history, the MSO has kept ticket prices affordable, relying on generous donors, business partners, and grants to serve the Wabash County community and attract concertgoers.
“We are proud of our role in the county’s strong arts culture,” said Beth Driscoll, president of the Manchester Symphony Society board. “Wabash County is a wonderful place to live and visit, thanks to its vibrant offerings. The community recognizes the value of what it has and how it can attract new residents and businesses. We are fortunate to have benefactors who appreciate this hidden gem and its contribution to our county.”
As the MSO looks to a bright future, the community is invited to support its mission, attend concerts, and inspire the next generation of music lovers.
For concert schedule click HERE.
