Issue link: http://maconmagazine.uberflip.com/i/1184230
6 2 M A C O N M A G A Z I N E . C O M A P R I L / M AY 2 0 1 9 "We need to do better about generating excitement and support for our hometown talent. Just because somebody's from Athens or Nashville doesn't make them better; we've got world-class artists living and working right here who need our support." A two-time Grammy nominee and much-lauded percussionist, Moretti travels extensively to bring his performance talents to symphony orchestras across the country and beyond. While home in Macon, Moretti had a vision of his ideal pops orchestra. For the uninitiated, a pops orchestra is basically just what it sounds like: popular music played by a traditional orchestra. Along with partner Matt Catingub, Moretti turned that dream into a reality. Macon Pops recently wrapped their sixth season, and they're hard at work planning a seventh season full of innovation, creativity and genuine musical joy. Macon Pops had the honor of performing to a crowd of nearly 10,000 people at the Main Street Christmas Light Show Extravaganza last year, a moment which Moretti lists as a top-five career achievement. "It was so meaningful – looking out over the crowd, seeing the joy on everyone's face, seeing people from all walks of life here in Macon be connected by hearing the local talent up there on 3440 Musella Road, Musella, GA 31066 478-836-4362 | (800) PEACH-GA dickeyfarms.com that stage," he said. Last year, Moretti launched For the Love of Music, a campaign focused on music education in a practical, working sense. Students in music programs at local schools have the opportunity to attend a Pops rehearsal, where they see the band run the show and work out production in real time. They're also invited to attend the evening performance for free. There's a Q&A session where students are encouraged to ask questions about any aspect of the life of a working musician. "We're hoping we can be the spark of inspiration for somebody out there who's not sure of their direction," said Moretti. "We want to be reachable, tangible, attainable, and we want them to see the show come to life. We want them to see the quality of music that's out there in their city. I really want students to take advantage of it! You have somebody who's pretty high up the music-industry food chain that you have access to for free – ask me anything! Just because I'm in Macon doesn't make me less awesome," he said with a laugh. In fact, Macon is getting some widespread recognition for the creativity and innovation of the Macon Pops. "No one else is creating shows from scratch," said Moretti. "Matt can write DENNY HANSON PHOTO BY LUKE USRY