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BETWEEN THE TWO One person more than any stands connected to the two orchestras: Amy Schwartz Moretti. Schwartz Moretti not only directs the McDuffie Center, whose students are the heart of the MMSO, but she is also the wife of Pops founder Steve Moretti. An in-demand soloist, symphonic and chamber orchestra violinist herself, the seed of the Pops orchestra began in 2013 when she and Moretti sought an opportunity to play together publicly. They asked their friend Catingub, who had originally introduced them, to create a violin concerto she, he, Moretti and McDuffie Center students could perform in locally. "The response was so good, it seemed clear we should pursue some sort of pops orchestra for Macon," Moretti said. Years later, with the advent of the MMSO, Schwartz Moretti said all the pieces were in place for the school. By extension, the same is true for Macon's overall fine arts following, especially considering the McDuffie Center also features frequent chamber orchestra evenings. Key for the Center and the MMSO is their unique collaboration and support. "During the 15 years of collaboration with Robert (McDuffie) at the center, I've been amazed at his care for the students and for his hometown community," Schwartz Moretti said. "Having him always come from his New York base or international travels to be our student's teacher and cheerleader, plus everything (Mercer University President) Bill Underwood has done and the support we get from the community – well, it's been beyond overwhelming and proof what a team working together can do." SEASON OPENERS Macon Pops will host Rolling Stones keyboardist Chuck Leavell for its 10th season celebration gala on Sept. 17. For full season lineup and tickets: maconpops.com. Germany based American conductor Roderick Cox, who was born and raised in Macon, will conduct the MMSO opening night on Oct. 17, which will include "Symphonic Dances" from Leonard Bernstein's West Side Story. Find information on the full season and subscriptions for the upcoming year: mcduffie.mercer.edu/symphony. 86 maconmagazine.com | JUNE/JULY 2022