Introducing the Meridian Symphony Orchestra …

By Staff
October 6, 2004
This is a special feature introducing the musicians of the Meridian Symphony Orchestra. The public can see the orchestra in concert on Nov. 13 at 8 p.m. in Meridian Community College's McCain Theater.
James Papizan has been a participant in the Meridian Symphony Orchestra's percussion section for the past two years. He was born in Brooksville, Fla.
Papizan is currently a predental/nutrition major at the University of Southern Mississippi in Hattiesburg, and is expected to graduate in May 2005.
The son of Bruce and Beverly Papizan of Madison, James began playing percussion in the seventh grade in the Madison public school, eventually receiving a scholarship to USM in 2000.
His hobbies include running, mountain biking and backpacking. Musical interests involve all percussion instruments.
Betsy Phillips has been a participant in the Meridian Symphony Orchestra for the past two years. Born in Tupelo, she now resides in Hattiesburg where she is principal oboe in the USM orchestra.
As a member of the MSO, Phillips has played both oboe and English horn. In her spare time she plays saxophone, is an artist and enjoys sewing.
To prove one can enjoy the entire spectrum of classical music, she lists Beethoven and Copland as favorite composers.