PRIZM CHAMBER ORCHESTRA


Launched in 2016, the PRIZM Chamber Orchestra is an ensemble whose cultural landscape mirrors the demographics of Memphis.The PRIZM Chamber orchestra is comprised of musicians from all over the country. including musicians from Memphis and surrounding areas.

In 2017, the PRIZM Chamber Orchestra premiered Joel Thompson’s stunning work, “Seven Last Words of the Unarmed” - a musical eulogy of sorts to unarmed black men killed in America.

In 2018, the PRIZM Chamber Orchestra presented “A Concert for the Next 50 Years” at historic Clayborn Temple as part of events honoring the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. on the 50th anniversary of his assassination in Memphis.

Upcoming Performances:

Recent performances include:

  • June 17, 2023: A Juneteenth Celebration
  • June 17, 2022: A Juneteenth Celebration
  • April 2018: "A Concert for the Next 50 Years" honoring the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.
  • June 2017: Juneteenth performance at Clayborn Temple "Seven Last Words of the Unarmed"
  • October 2016: Opera Memphis "The Marriage of Figaro"

My favorite thing that I learned at PRIZM this year is how to connect with someone through music. We don't just learn to play our instruments. We learn to communicate with people who have different backgrounds from us.


- Jacob Saunders