BEAUMONT, Texas —- The Symphony of Southeast Texas (SOST) takes guests back to the good ole’ days “When Swing was King” on Saturday, Feb. 20 at 7:30 p.m. at the Julie Rogers Theatre. This Pops Concert celebrates the great era of music that had people on their feet dancing and features guest conductor and clarinetist Carl Topilow teaming up with SOST Music Director Chelsea Tipton, II for a swinging good time for all.

“Carl Topilow is an amazing clarinetist and conductor, and you are guaranteed to have a wonderful time with him,” said Tipton.

Topilow is renowned worldwide for his versatility, whether he is holding a conductor’s baton or his trademark red clarinet. His unique approach to pops programming includes extensive audience involvement and true showmanship. Topilow is founder of the Cleveland Pops Orchestra and recently completed his 37th season as music director and conductor of the National Repertory Orchestra, a summer music festival in Breckenridge, Colo., where our own Maestro Tipton served as his assistant conductor for two summers about 15 years ago.

“Carl has been a mentor to me since the start of my career,” said Tipton. “I learned so much from him about music making and how to connect with audiences.”

The reuniting of the duo will set the stage for a distinctive program featuring the beloved Swing Era as they lead the SOST through the music of Hoagy Carmichael, George Gershwin, Cole Porter and others who made this era a milestone of American music.

The Pops Concert is sponsored by Capital One Bank.

Single ticket prices range from $18 to $45; senior, student and group discounts are available. To purchase tickets or get more information, go to www.sost.org or contact the Symphony office at (409) 892-2257.

The Symphony of Southeast Texas continues its mission of presenting educational, entertaining, and culturally enriching programs of the highest artistic quality and, as always, promises to be “Good to the last note!”