Memphis, Tennessee, April 27, 2008 – Temple Israel will present its 19th annual Mom & Pops Mother‟s Day event featuring a performance by the Memphis Symphony Orchestra on the Temple grounds at 1376 East Massey Road, beginning at 5:00 pm on Sunday, May 11. The orchestra, under the direction of James Feddeck, will offer a varied program – from Johannes Brahms‟ "Academic Festival Overture, Opus 80" to Franz Joseph Haydn‟s "Symphony No. 94 in G major ‘Surprise’" as well as other selections. „Mom & Pops‟ will also include a unique performance by the Bluegrass recording duo of Eric Lewis and Andy Ratliff. They have been performing and recording together since 2000 and are „Mom & Pops‟ audience favorites. The team has released a few CDs, including "Edgar‟s Blues" in 2003 and "Only Home I‟ve Had" in 2006. Andy hails from Eggville, Mississippi, and Eric is from Oak Ridge, Tennessee. "The Temple „backyard,‟ relaxing surroundings, and beautiful music combine to make „Mom & Pops‟ a huge hit year after year," according to event chairman, Jason Goldfeder. "It seems like every year, you see more and more smiles, from the youngest children to their grandparents. A lot of people love the fact that they can grab a blanket, bring a picnic dinner, and just relax. Others pamper their mothers by reserving a lovely decorated table featuring a royal southern feast for ten, or having a catered lunch (available for advance purchase). Many have made this special event an annual part of their Mother‟s Day celebration: they have made „Mom & Pops‟ the place to be!"

James Feddeck joined the Memphis Symphony Orchestra this season as Assistant Conductor, having been appointed by Music Director, David Loebel. He holds the unusual distinction of having been admitted to the Oberlin Conservatory of Music in several performance disciplines: piano, oboe, organ, and conducting. Mr. Feddeck was unanimously awarded Grand Prize at the 2006 Vakhtang Jordania International Conducting Competition. Additionally, Mr. Feddeck has performed recitals throughout Europe and North America, and is winner of several competitions sponsored by the American Guild of Organists. The event, which is sponsored by SunTrust Bank, is open to the public. Admission is $15 in advance (by May 7) and $18 at the gate. Seniors (65 and older) and youngsters (3-18) admitted for $10 in advance and $12 at the gate. Children (2 and under) will be admitted free of charge. In case of rain, the performance will be held indoors. If you would like to purchase admission tickets, catered lunches, reserve a table for ten (with food), or simply request more information, please call (901) 761-3130.