Over the past two years, this musician-focused ensemble has performed over 40 free concerts throughout the City of Philadelphia as well as performances in Marian Anderson Hall at the Kimmel Center. It has also forged critical partnerships with various organizations from the region, to spread the joy of its music and solidify its connection with the community. These relationships include collaborations with Wawa Welcome America for the Pops on Independence Concert (July 3, 2025 and 2026) and the Mann Center for the Performing Arts for a concert on August 7, 2025 featuring Grammy-Award-winning singer songwriter Jacob Collier.
Wawa Welcome America’s President and CEO Michael DelBene shared his enthusiasm about working with the reborn Philly Pops. He said, “We are thrilled to announce the return of Pops on Independence with the new Philly Pops on July 3rd. This long-standing tradition in this iconic location captivates audiences of all ages for an unforgettable evening of music and celebration.”
Catherine M. Cahill, President and CEO of the Mann Center for the Performing Arts, has also confirmed the value they place on their relationship with the orchestra. She said, “The return of the soon-to-be Philly Pops, currently referred to as No Name Pops, is a cause for celebration, and we couldn't be happier to welcome the Pops back to the TD Pavilion at the Mann this summer. The Pops have a rich history at the Mann, and we look forward to when they retake the stage this summer.”
The NNP has not only cemented these partnerships to perform at fan-favorite venues. It has also linked up with community-based organizations like Artcinia, to spread its music to under-resourced communities in the city, Art-Reach to provide discounted tickets to people with disabilities, and the Center City District, to name a few.
And these valuable connections go beyond those that are musical. Given its positive economic and cultural impacts, the NNP has worked successfully to form important alliances with City and State representatives, as well as with the Philadelphia Visitor’s Center, Philadelphia Magazine, WHYY and others, further solidifying its presence in the Philadelphia community.
"While reclaiming the Philly Pops name is a triumph for this organization, our partnerships and community engagement initiatives have been instrumental to our growth, and we are excited to continue building on this foundation long into the future," says the NNP’s Executive Director Matthew Koveal. “It’s an endorsement of the highest degree that so many of our region’s most respected organizations wish to partner with us. We are most appreciative.”
About The No Name Pops (NNP): Founded in 2023, Liberty Bell Pops, dba The No Name Pops, is a versatile ensemble composed of the former musicians of the Philly Pops with a mission to deliver authentic, exceptional musical experiences in the Philadelphia region. The NNP will ultimately change its name to the Philly Pops, as the name was gifted to them by the Peter Nero Family Estate. Peter Nero, the Music Director Emeritus of the NNP, is the Grammy Award-winning pianist and conductor who launched and solidified Pops music in Philadelphia for over three decades.
Led by its Music Director Chris Dragon, and featuring accomplished conductors and world-class soloists, the NNP continues to captivate audiences with its vibrant and diverse repertoire. The NNP melds tradition with an innovative approach unbound by musical genre for concert experiences that entertain and empower the entire community.
The Liberty Bell Pops, dba The No Name Pops, has no affiliation either legally or artistically with Encore Series, Inc., the former management company of The Philly Pops.
Shown in photo: Deputy City Rep Kyra Harris, NNP Exec Dir Matthew Koveal, Wawa Welcome America Pres. and CEO Michael DelBene
Photo by Bachrach Photography |
No comments:
Post a Comment