A remarkable musical event is set to unfold on Monday, March 10, 2025, at 7:30 PM in the Statesboro Campus's Performing Arts Center. The Fred and Dinah Gretsch School of Music will host the 2025 Strings at Southern Music Festival, co-directed by Drs. Steven and Larisa Elisha. This concert promises an evening filled with exceptional performances that highlight both classical masterpieces and emerging talent.

The festival's orchestra concert will feature the Georgia Southern Symphony, conducted by Dr. Steven Elisha. Among the highlights are performances by the winners of the 2024 Georgia Southern Symphony Concerto Competition. Audiences can look forward to a diverse range of instruments taking center stage. First Place winner Collin Morgan will perform Mozart’s Bassoon Concerto on euphonium, while Second Place winner Justin Fullem will present Krommer’s clarinet concerto. Third Place winner Thomas Schandolph will showcase Rimsky-Korsakov’s trombone concerto. Additionally, Max Martínez on violin and Kaylee Origer on trumpet received Honorable Mentions for their outstanding contributions. The evening will culminate with Beethoven’s Symphony No. 1 in C Major, a timeless classic that never fails to inspire.

The Georgia Southern Symphony and String Camerata have earned acclaim not only within the state but also beyond its borders. These ensembles have garnered prestigious accolades, including an Emmy Award, and have performed at significant venues such as the Georgia Governor’s Mansion and regional conferences. Most recently, the String Camerata embarked on an educational tour of Germany, funded by a grant from the Halle Foundation. This tour included performances in renowned locations like Berlin, Leipzig, Halle, and Bamberg, underscoring the ensemble's commitment to fostering cultural exchange and excellence in music education.

The upcoming concert represents more than just a celebration of music; it embodies the spirit of artistic growth and community engagement. By bringing together accomplished musicians and young talents, this event fosters an environment where passion for music thrives and inspires future generations to pursue their dreams in the arts.