by Kim Ellet, Georgia Symphony Orchestra
For 75 years, the Georgia Symphony Orchestra has been part of Marietta’s holiday rhythm—bringing neighbors, families, and friends together through the shared joy of live music. As the orchestra celebrates its Diamond Anniversary Season in 2025–2026, it also celebrates a tradition that has evolved alongside the community it serves: filling the season with music that connects and uplifts.
In the 1950s and 1960s, when the group was known as the Marietta Community Symphony, its annual performance of Handel’s Messiah became a cherished local tradition. Under the direction of Betty Shipman Bennett, musicians joined with combined church choirs and the Marietta Choral Guild to bring this timeless masterpiece to life each December.
“Watching my mother bring the community together through music was magical,” recalls Barbara Bennett, Betty Shipman Bennett’s daughter. “She believed music could lift the spirit, especially during the holidays, and she loved seeing families come together to share that experience.”
As the years passed, the orchestra grew, and so did its holiday offerings. The Messiah performances gave way to Sounds of the Seasons, conducted by Steven Byess, the program blended classical works, familiar carols, and family favorites—while keeping community at its heart.
Today, under the direction of Music Director and Conductor Dr. Timothy Verville, the Georgia Symphony Orchestra continues that community legacy with its Holiday Pops concerts. These joy-filled performances feature the full orchestra alongside the 120-member GSO Chorus, performing a mix of traditional carols, holiday classics, whimsical favorites, and a few unexpected delights.
“Holiday Pops is all about bringing the community together in celebration,” says Dr. Verville. “It’s a chance to experience the joy of live music and to make memories with friends and family.
This year’s Holiday Pops concerts take place on Saturday, December 6 at 7:30 p.m. and Sunday, December 7 at 3:00 p.m. at the Marietta Performing Arts Center at Marietta High School. Tickets are available at georgiasymphony.org.
Adding to the festive weekend, the GSO is collaborating with the Marietta Pilgrimage Christmas Home Tour for the first time, offering live musical surprises during the Thursday Night Gala on December 4. Presented by Visit Marietta and Cobb Landmarks, the Pilgrimage showcases Marietta’s beautifully decorated historic homes.
“Partnering with the GSO allows us to offer visitors an even richer experience,” says Jim Glover, Chairman of the Pilgrimage Tour, former GSO Board Chair, and current member of the GSO Advisory Board. “Music and history go hand in hand, and this collaboration celebrates both.”
With the Pilgrimage Tour & Gala running December 4–7 and Holiday Pops concerts on December 6 and 7, visitors can enjoy a full Marietta holiday weekend—exploring history, architecture, and music in one memorable celebration of community spirit.
