(L-R) Deputy City Representative Kyra Harris, No Name Pops Executive Director Matthew Koveal, Wawa Welcome America President and CEO Michael DelBene (Credit: Bachrach Photography)
A familiar name in Philadelphia’s music world is making a comeback with fresh momentum.
The No Name Pops (NNP), an orchestra formed by former musicians of the Philly Pops, has announced its official return to the stage as the soon-to-be-renamed “Philly Pops,” reaffirming its ties to the city’s cultural and civic life.
Formed in 2023 under the legal name Liberty Bell Pops, the ensemble arose following the dissolution of the former Philly Pops, previously run by Encore Series Inc. Since its inception, the NNP has staged over 40 free performances across Philadelphia, including multiple concerts at Marian Anderson Hall at the Kimmel Center.
The ensemble’s growing presence has been bolstered by major partnerships.
NNP will headline the Pops on Independence concert as part of the 2025 and 2026 Wawa Welcome America festivals, returning a tradition that draws thousands to Independence Mall each July 3. The group is also set to perform at the Mann Center for the Performing Arts on August 7, with Grammy-winning artist Jacob Collier.
Beyond high-profile venues, the orchestra has forged alliances with organizations such as Artcinia, which brings live music to underserved neighborhoods; Art-Reach, which connects people with disabilities to the arts; and the Center City District. These efforts reflect a mission that goes beyond performance — to engage deeply with all corners of Philadelphia’s population.
The group has also built relationships with city and state leaders, as well as civic and media institutions including the Philadelphia Visitor’s Center, WHYY, and Philadelphia Magazine, amplifying its role in the city’s cultural and economic landscape.
“While reclaiming the Philly Pops name is a triumph for this organization, our partnerships and community engagement initiatives have been instrumental to our growth, and we are excited to continue building on this foundation long into the future,” said NNP Executive Director Matthew Koveal in a press release.
The Peter Nero Family Estate recently gifted the rights to the "Philly Pops" name to the NNP, allowing the group to carry forward the legacy of Nero — the Grammy-winning conductor and pianist who helped define pops music in Philadelphia for more than 30 years.
Under Music Director Chris Dragon, the orchestra continues to explore a wide range of musical styles, promising dynamic programming that bridges tradition with innovation.
The No Name Pops emphasized it has no legal or artistic connection with Encore Series Inc., the entity that previously managed the original Philly Pops.
