In their virtual meeting Monday night, St. Joseph City Commissioners axed the long running community fireworks showcase on the 4th of July launched from the pier heads along Lake Michigan, and early this morning the Southwest Michigan Symphony Orchestra which has performed side-by-side with that fireworks extravaganza followed suit, cancelling not only that 4th of July show, but their entire summer series through the end of August 2020.
Both are victims of the ongoing coronavirus pandemic and the reach of COVID-19 into the region, coupled with the increased measures to slow the spread. Organizers of the Southwest Michigan Symphony Orchestra (SMSO) shutdown all concerts and programs through the end of August, citing the health and safety of the community as their highest priority including the well-being of their musicians, patrons, staff, vendors and volunteers.
The Symphony office announcement adds, “With all the uncertainty in the world today we are diligently seeking discernment to keep everyone safe, while working with our four outstanding Music Director candidates on a timeline for our return. Having been an integral part of the cultural fabric of our community since 1951, we look forward to the time when we can safely return to enrich and unite our community through shared musical experiences.”
In the meantime, interested fans of the orchestra who would like to support the Symphony during this unprecedented time, are encouraged to visit this link http://www.smso.org to consider making an online donation, or by mailing in a check to their office at the address you’ll find on the web. All donations are greatly appreciated.
