'No Name' No More: Philly Pops Orchestra Inherits Trademarked Name – With Pro Bono Backing

The Philly Pops orchestra, a venerable and beloved musical institution, has been gifted its trademarked name by the estate of the orchestra’s late longtime leader Peter Nero—with pro bono legal representation from Ballard Spahr.

The ensemble had operated as the No Names Pops since last year when Peter passed away and a previous iteration of the organization ceased operations. The Ballard Spahr team that represented the orchestra for its trademark issues incudes Intellectual Property Department Chair Lynn E. Rzonca and Of Counsel Kevin P. Ray, who led the effort to advise the orchestra on accepting numerous items gifted by the estate, including Peter Nero’s original manuscripts, sheet music, and musical arrangements. Associates Gregory Jarmas and Eric M. Sable also contributed to the pro bono representation.

The Philly Pops orchestra has been known and loved for its upbeat performances of classical, Broadway, rock, and jazz works for more than 40 years. Through the firm’s nationally acclaimed pro bono program, Ballard Spahr lawyers contribute more than 50,000 hours annually to pro bono service to benefit our communities, including to help local arts and cultural groups advance their missions.

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