After coming into existence about a year and a half ago, the No Name Pops have received a gift from the top of their wishlist: the formal transfer of the “Philly Pops” name to their ensemble. This generous decision comes from the family of the late Peter Nero, who conducted the Philly Pops for more than three decades. Nero died in 2023.
Comprised mainly of former Philly Pops members, the No Name Pops established themselves last year after the Philly Pops were evicted from the Kimmel Center. Since then, they have played numerous concerts; notably, their highly successful April 2024 concert “TIMELESS: A Tribute to the Legacy of Peter Nero” sparked new hopes that the group would soon see the return of the name.
Along with the transfer of the Philly Pops name, the Nero Family Estate has included Nero’s scores, sheet music, recordings, and more, all of which serve to define his legendary career. Nero has also been posthumously deemed “Music Director Emeritus” by the No Name Pops, an act which, along with the transfer, ensures that Peter Nero’s legacy will be remembered and celebrated by current and future classical audiences.
“We are incredibly honored to carry on the tradition and legacy that Peter Nero created in Philadelphia.” said Matthew Koveal, Executive Director of the No Name Pops, in a statement. “This is a story about our dedicated musicians who stood up for what they believed in and kept the music alive.”
“We're grateful to Matt Koveal, board, staff, and musicians for carrying on our father's legacy” said Nero’s children Jedd and Beverly in a press statement. “He cherished the great people and City of Philadelphia and will be with you all in spirit at every concert, relishing and celebrating every note.”
Embedded with new excitement, the No Name Pops will be performing twice at Marian Anderson Hall in the coming months. On Nov. 16, catch “California Dreamin’ – Jessica Vosk Sings Songs from Laurel Canyon,” featuring conductor Chris Dragon. Then, as the holiday season rolls around, the pops will perform “A Philly Holiday Spectacular” on Dec. 14.
For more information on the No Name Pops and their upcoming performances, visit their website.