Middle Tennessee’s Orchestra Performs Outstandingly

By Jacob Cook

Middle Stew Reporter

                MURFREESBORO, Tenn.-Middle Tennessee State University’s Symphony and Chamber Orchestras displayed their extraordinary talents Sunday evening in the Wright Music Building on campus.

                The two orchestras combined their talents to produce a soothing melodic atmosphere that captivated the audience. Amidst a good turnout of family, friends and supporters, the MTSU orchestras kept everyone in awe.

                The concert started off with a very familiar piece by Leroy Anderson, “A Christmas Festival”, which started it off in holiday fashion.

                Solo performances by clarinetist Dustin Odom and soprano vocalist Dina Cancryn astounded everyone with their expertise and flawless display of musical talent. Cancryn’s opera-inspired vocals took the music to a whole new level.

                Music Director Carol Niles has done an outstanding job, yet again bringing the orchestra together to exhibit its spectacular prowess. Her level of ingenuity has shown itself with this performance that has left spectators with warm hearts and humming a fine tune.

                If you need more information or would like to purchase tickets, you can find out more at http://www.mtsu.edu/music .

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Middle Tennessee State University Outlasts Troy

By Jacob Cook

Middle Stew

                  MURFREESBORO, Tenn.- The Middle Tennessee State University Blue Raiders defeated Troy on Nov. 24 with the last home game of the year for seniors after forcing five turnovers and playing hard-nosed football.

                  The Blue Raider seniors took the field for the last time against Troy, a rival that MTSU has struggled with in the past, losing the last six meetings between the two. With the help of five turnovers and some big plays, the Blue Raiders took home a 24-21 victory over their foe.

                  Senior placekicker Carlos Lopez connected with three crucial field goals, while redshirt freshman Kevin Byard forced a fumble and a pick six, and added another interception along with six tackles to help keep the game in the Blue Raiders’ favor. Freshman running back Jordan Parker ran away with a couple records also, setting a team high in rushing yards with 778 and scoring on a 98-yard run, the longest in MTSU and Sun Belt history.

                  Blue Raider coach Rick Stockstill said before the game that Troy had never played a team as talented as the one he has now. He couldn’t have been more right.

                  With that win, Raider Nation now has its eighth win of the season and sixth in the division.  Unfortunately, that was not enough to earn them a bowl bid. Stockstill has led his team to two bowl games in the past four years.

Raider Nation faced off against Arkansas State on Dec. 1. They lost 45 to nothing with the conference title on the line and a bowl game almost in their grasp.

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