Missouri State University’s Dr. Phillip Roberts received an Honorable Mention in the Orchestral-Open Category for his composition, “Hocket Rocket,” in the 2026 Missouri Composers Project (MOCOP) competition.

Roberts is a visiting assistant professor of composition and music theory in the Department of Music.

“Hocket Rocket” conducted by GRAMMY^® winner Stefan Freund

As part of the recognition celebrations, the Columbia Civic Orchestra in Columbia, Missouri, performed all the winning compositions during a concert March 8, 2026.

GRAMMY^® winner Stefan Freund conducted “Hocket Rocket.” Freund is the founder and music director of the Columbia Civic Orchestra, according to Roberts. He also teaches music composition at the University of Missouri-Columbia.

Describing the concert as a “great success,” Roberts added that he enjoyed meeting the other composers and conductors.

Composition blends old and new music techniques

Roberts’ composition blends the past and the present of music history and techniques, as reflected in its title.

“The title refers to both the Medieval musical technique of hocket, wherein a melody is broken up and bounced around the ensemble, and rocket, since it is brisk and has influences of funk and rock,” Roberts explained.

About the Missouri Composers Project

The Missouri Composers Project is part of a larger collaboration between the Mizzou New Music Initiative, the Columbia Civic Orchestra, Premiere Vocal Artists and the Sinquefield Charitable Foundation. The competition celebrates Missouri composers by recognizing original orchestral and choral works in two categories: open and high school.

Photo credits: Dale Lloyd of Dale Lloyd Photography and Films.