MISSISSIPPI LEGISLATURE

1999 Regular Session

To: Rules

By: Senator(s) Hall

A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION COMMENDING AND CONGRATULATING MAESTRO COLMAN PEARCE UPON RECEIVING THE "MUSICAL AMBASSADOR" AWARD AS PART OF THE 1999 GOVERNOR'S AWARDS FOR EXCELLENCE IN THE ARTS.

WHEREAS, known internationally as a gifted musician and master of twentieth century music and European classics, Colman Pearce has enriched the lives of Mississippians with his vision for bringing symphonic music to people of all ages through his directorship of the Mississippi Symphony Orchestra; and

WHEREAS, his energetic and vigorous approach to increasing the venues for music to be studied and enjoyed is seen in the KINDERCONCERTS program, in which he emphasizes both short classical and new music; highlighting pieces such as The Steadfast Tin Soldier, written by Mississippi Composer Luigi Zananelli, and an adaptation of the Dr. Seuss' classic Green Eggs and Ham, he has delighted young audiences with his innovation; and

WHEREAS, led by Maestro Pearce, the twenty-eight musicians who make up the Symphony Chamber Orchestra present concerts within the regular season of traditional and contemporary music combined with biographical data and anecdotes about featured composers; the extraordinary musicianship, wit and intellect Mr. Pearce exhibits allow him to move the Symphony beyond the concert hall to audiences throughout Mississippi communities; and

WHEREAS, a native of Ireland and a graduate of the University College, Dublin, he has worked with Irish Radio and Television since the beginning of his professional career bringing music to listeners and viewers; and

WHEREAS, prior to coming to Mississippi, he was Principal Conductor of the National Symphony Orchestra of Ireland, and is now Conductor Laureate of that Symphony; and

WHEREAS, his dedication and untiring commitment to broadening opportunities for audiences to learn and enjoy music have made the Mississippi Symphony Orchestra and Colman Pearce accessible to thousands of people; and

WHEREAS, Mr. Pearce is truly a MUSICAL AMBASSADOR:

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE MISSISSIPPI STATE SENATE, THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES CONCURRING THEREIN, That we do hereby commend and congratulate Maestro Colman Pearce upon receiving the "Musical Ambassador" award as part of the 1999 Governor's Awards for Excellence in the Arts.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, That this resolution be presented to Maestro Pearce at the awards ceremony to be held on Friday, March 19, 1999, and be made available to the Capitol Press Corps.