MCC students shine at the MAX during fine arts celebration
2026 Performing & Fine Arts Celebration
Meridian Community College students took center stage at the Mississippi Arts + Entertainment Experience (The MAX), delivering an evening of music and visual art during the MCC Performing and Fine Arts Celebration.The event, which marked the first time a college has hosted a showcase at The MAX, welcomed community members for a free night highlighting student talent across multiple disciplines.
“They came, they performed, they conquered,” said Mitch Brantley, MCC division chair of communication and fine arts and coordinator for the event. “It’s been a great experience for our amazingly talented students, faculty, and staff, and a meaningful way to share their creativity with the community.”
Throughout the evening, a variety of MCC ensembles performed for an engaged audience. The Concert Choir, directed by Tammy Miles, presented a range of choral works, while Dimensions, the College’s contemporary vocal group and rock band, delivered popular songs and Broadway selections.
The Guitar Ensemble, under Brantley’s direction, showcased an eclectic mix of movie and television themes, blues, and hymns. The Resurrection Jazz Band and the Screaming Eagle Community Concert Band, both directed by Chris King, rounded out the performances with selections spanning jazz and traditional concert repertoire.
In addition to the performances, guests explored an exhibit of student artwork featuring paintings, drawings, and design pieces. Art Instructor and Casteel Gallery Director Terrell Taylor coordinated the exhibit. MCC speech instructor Erica Stokes served as the evening's emcee.
The celebration highlighted a growing partnership between MCC and The MAX, providing students with the opportunity to perform and display their work in a professional venue dedicated to Mississippi artists.
“The students all did a phenomenal job; we’d love to do it again next year,” said Aaron Windom, director of operations at The MAX.
MCC President Dr. Tom Huebner also praised the event. “It was a fun night with great engagement, but most importantly, it gave people the opportunity to see what our students can do. It was an awesome experience.”
For more information, visit meridiancc.edu/finearts.