Saline Symphony Orchestra

The Saline Symphony Orchestra was born over 10 years ago from a shared love of music. What began as a small community ensemble became a nonprofit in 2014 under the name Saline County Community Orchestra, with just 16 members. Today, the group has grown to around 50–55 musicians while staying true to its original mission: sharing the joy of music with the community.

“We continue to grow and develop as Saline County grows,” said Symphony President Lisa Hightower.

Lisa, who plays French horn, joined a decade ago as a musician and soon began serving as the group’s Secretary. She’s now in her third year as President. Though her professional background is in IT, music has always been at her core.

“Music has always been my heartbeat,” Hightower said. “Serving this Orchestra brings me joy; playing with fellow musicians is the best reward.”

Members of the Symphony come from across Central Arkansas—Saline, Grant, Garland, Pulaski, and Independence Counties—and represent a wide range of experience, from high school students to retirees and professional musicians alike.

The group recently welcomed a new conductor, Dr. Aleksandr Polyakov, an associate professor at Hendrix College. A Ukrainian American and prizewinner of more than 20 international piano competitions, Polyakov has performed with major ensembles such as the Netherlands Radio Philharmonic and the National Symphony Orchestra of Ukraine. His global experience and enthusiasm for community music make him a natural fit for the Orchestra’s next chapter.

The Saline Symphony is one of only two civic orchestras in Arkansas and the only one that advertises all concerts free to the public. Members see their role as extending far beyond the concert stage. The Orchestra’s outreach includes SSO Strings (a chamber group) and the Salty River Ragtime Syndicate (a jazz ensemble), which perform at community events like the Bryant Christmas Tree Lighting and the Greater Bryant Chamber of Commerce banquet.

The group’s mission is twofold: to provide educational and performance opportunities for musicians of all ages, and to make music accessible to everyone. This includes instrument zoos, youth participation programs, and scholarships to state music camps.

Musicians visit local libraries and schools to host “instrument zoos,” letting children touch and try instruments. Each spring, young musicians with at least two years of experience are invited to rehearse and perform alongside the full Orchestra, a rare opportunity in Arkansas.

“It’s no surprise that many of our members are current or retired educators,” Hightower said. “Our love for sharing and learning shines through in everything we do.”

The Orchestra performs two main concerts each year—a holiday concert and a spring concert—as well as a fall Season Kickoff event.

“As we continue to grow, we’re looking at expanding opportunities for community performances,” Hightower said, adding, “We know the stereotypes people have about orchestras: distant, formal, uptight. We’re none of those things. Our performances are relaxed, family-friendly, and free. Come as you are.”

While classical music remains part of the repertoire, the Symphony often features themed programs like Music of Latin America, Songs of My Homeland, and even movie and pop favorites. Holiday concerts frequently include school choirs, dancers, and, in past years, Santa Claus–though according to Lisa, Santa sadly won’t be making an appearance this year due to other seasonal obligations.

“If we can come together with our audience for a few hours of joy and connection, we’ve accomplished our mission,” Hightower said, quoting Elton John: “‘Music has healing power. It has the ability to take people out of themselves for a few hours.’”

Unlike the professional Arkansas Symphony Orchestra, the Saline Symphony is entirely volunteer-based. “Our members aren’t paid, but we’re a family,” Hightower explains. “We support one another and collaborate with other music organizations whenever we can.”

The group relies solely on community donations, sponsors, and patrons to fund concerts and outreach efforts. “Without them, our programs simply wouldn’t be possible,” Hightower said.

New members are welcomed in August and January. Musicians are invited to attend early rehearsals with their instruments to find the right fit. High school sophomores and older students may apply with instructor approval. Details are available at SalineSymphony.org.

This year’s holiday performance, A Twisted Christmas, takes place Saturday, Dec. 13, 2025, at 7 p.m. in Love Auditorium at the Bryant High School Fine Arts Building. Admission is free, and donations are encouraged.

Patrons can expect a mix of familiar favorites and new surprises, including the orchestral premiere of The Krampus Suite by composer Chris Richard. Dr. Amy Porter, associate professor at Arkansas Tech University, will perform a Bach vocal solo accompanied by the orchestra’s strings. The program also features selections from The Nightmare Before Christmas (Danny Elfman) and A Charlie Brown Christmas (Vince Guaraldi, Lee Mendelson), along with performances by students from Parkway and Hurricane Creek Elementary Schools.

Polyakov will conduct, and Mrs. Mardell Lasiter will serve as emcee. Light music performed by SSO musicians will greet guests in the lobby before the concert begins. The event will also collect food donations for the Bryant High School student food pantry.

The Symphony is proudly supported by community partners including the Greater Bryant Chamber of Commerce, Walmart Store #336 (Sheridan), Drs. Greg & Kay Reed, and many generous patrons.

The Saline Symphony Orchestra continues to embody what community music is all about: connection, creativity, and the joy of making music together.

According to Lisa, “Our hope is simple: that people leave our concerts smiling, maybe humming a tune, and reminded of how powerful music can be.”