(Forsyth County, GA) Did you know that Forsyth County had its own symphony orchestra? Music lovers don’t have to travel far to hear beautiful songs from around the world thanks to the Forsyth Symphony Orchestra. Directed by Mark Wood, this community group features players of all ages from talented high schoolers to proficient musicians with decades of experience playing their instrument.
Wood, a Forsyth County native, has also been the Associate Pastor of Worship and Students at Cumming Baptist Church for the past 22 years. He has been married to his wife Julie, whom he met while they were both studying at Mercer University in Macon, for more than 36 years. Together they have raised two daughters.
“There are so many talented musicians in the area - the need for a community orchestra is obvious. We are excited to provide this avenue for our community to combine our talents and create beautiful music!” shared Wood.
We recently had a conversation with Wood to learn more about the Forsyth Symphony Orchestra. Read on to learn a little more about him and our local musicians - and how you can get involved when rehearsals start back again in July.
How did you become involved with the Forsyth Symphony Orchestra?
Several of the members of our new orchestra were part of a previous community orchestra, which unfortunately disbanded in the fall of 2021. These musicians felt very strongly that our community needed an outlet for other musicians to play orchestral music. These same musicians had also participated in the Christmas musicals for Cumming Baptist Church for several years, which I had the pleasure to conduct and to lead. So, during the Christmas season of 2021, these musicians asked if I would be the conductor for this new orchestra. I was reluctant at first, but it has been a joy to be a part of such a talented and fun group of musicians!
What musical performances do you have planned for this year?
We have just finished our Spring season with concerts at Cumming Baptist Church and at Sexton Hall. We are currently in the process of making preparations for our Fall and Christmas seasons with the goal of holding our Fall Concert in early to mid-October.
What is your favorite piece to conduct this season?
That’s a hard question to answer – each piece brings its own challenges and joys. Two recent pieces come to mind: “An American Rhapsody” by Richard Meyer and “Variations On A Korean Folk Song” by John Barnes Chance.
How can the community better support the orchestra?
It is a community orchestra, so anyone who wishes to join the group is invited! We currently meet at Cumming Baptist Church on Wednesdays at 7:30 p.m., with rehearsals resuming on July 19. We also invite everyone to follow us on social media as well – our website is forsythsymphonyorchestra.org or you can follow us on Facebook or Instagram. Spread the word and come enjoy the music with us!
Do you sing or play an instrument? Comment below or email kbondwriter@gmail.com to let us know.
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