November concerts celebrate the Peabody-trained composer and National Symphony Orchestra co-founder alongside masterpieces by Schubert and Beethoven.

Delmarva Peninsula– The Mid-Atlantic Symphony Orchestra (MSO) continues its 2026–2027 season, New Worlds, Timeless Wonders, with Mary Howe Rediscovered, a concert program that shines a spotlight on a pioneering American composer whose contributions helped shape the musical landscape of the Baltimore-Washington region.

The orchestra will present three performances, beginning Thursday, November 5, 7:30 PM at Easton Church of God in Easton, Maryland. The series continues Saturday, November 7, 7:30 PM at Epworth United Methodist Church in Rehoboth Beach, Delaware, and concludes Sunday, November 8, 3:00 PM at Community Church in Ocean Pines, Maryland.

Although her name may be unfamiliar to many concertgoers today, Mary Howe (1882–1964) played an important role in the development of American classical music, both as a composer and as an advocate for the arts. Born in Richmond, Virginia, Howe spent much of her life in Washington, D.C., and pursued her musical education at the Peabody Conservatory in Baltimore. There, she studied composition with Gustav Strube, who also served as the founding conductor of the Baltimore Symphony Orchestra, and earned her composition diploma in 1922.

Howe’s influence extended well beyond her compositions. She was instrumental in establishing the National Symphony Orchestra in Washington, D.C., helping raise the funds necessary to launch the organization in 1931. She also helped establish the Chamber Music Society of Washington and joined fellow composer Amy Beach in founding the Society of American Women Composers, advocating for greater recognition and performance opportunities for women in classical music.

Despite these significant contributions, Howe’s compositions are not frequently heard in today’s concert halls. Her music combines the expressive qualities of the Romantic tradition with the colorful harmonies and textures of the 20th century, reflecting a composer who embraced both established musical traditions and new artistic possibilities.

The MSO will introduce audiences to Howe’s Sand, Stars, and Whimsy, an imaginative orchestral work that showcases her distinctive musical voice. Its inclusion offers listeners an opportunity to discover a composer with meaningful connections to the region and an important place in American musical history.

Complementing Howe’s work are two beloved symphonies from the classical repertoire. Franz Schubert’s Symphony No. 5, composed when he was just 19 years old, is celebrated for its graceful melodies, elegant orchestration, and youthful energy. Ludwig van Beethoven’s Symphony No. 8 brings a contrasting spirit of humor, rhythmic vitality, and playful musical surprises.

Together, these three works offer audiences a program that bridges generations and musical traditions, pairing the excitement of discovery with the enduring appeal of familiar masterpieces.

For those interested in enjoying additional performances throughout the season, the Mid-Atlantic Symphony Orchestra is also offering prorated subscriptions for the remainder of its 2026–2027 season for $190. The subscriptions provide an opportunity to continue experiencing the orchestra’s diverse programming, from celebrated orchestral favorites to exciting musical discoveries.

Tickets for Mary Howe Rediscovered, prorated season subscriptions, and additional information are available at www.midatlanticsymphony.org.

ABOUT THE MID-ATLANTIC SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA

The Mid-Atlantic Symphony Orchestra (MSO) is the only professional symphony orchestra serving southern Delaware and Maryland’s Eastern Shore with a full season of programs. The MSO is supported in part by the Maryland State Arts Council, the Talbot County Arts Council, the Worcester County Arts Council, the Sussex County (Delaware) Council, and the Community Foundation of the Eastern Shore, Inc.

A complete schedule of the 2026-2027 season’s Masterworks and Ensembles programs, including venues, times, and other details, is available at www.midatlanticsymphony.org.