A promotional image for the Wichita State University Symphony Orchestra's Annual Concerto-Aria Concert. The image features four smiling student musicians standing outdoors on a bridge with a campus building and the Wichita State University water tower in the background. They are dressed in semi-formal attire. The image has a yellow border, and bold black text at the top reads: "Wichita State University Symphony Orchestra." Below the photo, additional text states: "Annual Concerto-Aria Concert 7:30 p.m. | Feb. 11 | Miller Concert Hall."

Brilliance takes center stage at WSU’s Concerto-Aria concert

The WSU Symphony Orchestra will showcase the exceptional talent of student soloists at the annual Concerto-Aria Concert at 7:30 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 11 in Miller Concert Hall at Duerksen Fine Arts Center. Under the baton of Dr. Mark Laycock, this concert highlights four outstanding musicians performing masterful works from the orchestral and operatic repertoire.

Featured soloists include Hannah Kavanaugh, flute, performing Chaminade’s Concerto; Miranda Marler, percussion, presenting movements from Russell Peck’s Harmonic Rhythm; Helena Kopp, piano, bringing the energy of Gershwin’s iconic Rhapsody in Blue; and Pulip Han, soprano, delivering the dazzling aria “Ah! non giunge” from Bellini’s “La Sonnambula.”

Students can get a ticket at no additional charge with their Shocker IDs, thanks to the Student Government Association. General admission to the concert is $6-12. Get your tickets at the Fine Arts Box Office in Duerksen Fine Arts Center or at wichita.edu/fineartsboxoffice.

The image features a festive holiday design promoting the 61st Annual Candlelight Concert hosted by the Wichita State University School of Music. In the foreground is a close-up of a decorative glass ornament containing a small lit candle and a gold Christmas tree inside, with warm glowing holiday lights and evergreen branches in the background. The text on the image reads: 61st Annual Candlelight Concert Dec. 6 & 7 – 7:30 p.m. Dec. 8 – 4:30 p.m. Wiedemann Hall At the bottom, the logo for the School of Music, Wichita State University is prominently displayed in yellow. The overall design conveys a warm, inviting holiday atmosphere.

School of Music to host 61st Annual Candlelight Concert: A holiday tradition

The School of Music invites you to the 61st Annual Candlelight Concert, a cherished holiday tradition that brings the community together to celebrate the season through music.

This year’s performances will take place at Wiedemann Hall at:

  • 7:30 p.m. Friday, Dec. 6
  • 7:30 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 7
  • 4:30 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 8

The concert will feature breathtaking performances by the Madrigal Singers, Concert Chorale, WuChoir and ShockerChoir, directed by Dr. Ryan Beeken and Dr. Tom Wine. These ensembles will present a diverse repertoire, blending traditional holiday favorites with captivating new works that highlight the beauty of the season.

Tickets are available through the Fine Arts Box Office or by calling 316-978-3233.

The image contains the title of a symphonic work, "Symphony Chaco: A Journey of the Spirit." The word "Symphony" is written in small, white, uppercase letters centered at the top. Below "Symphony," the word "Chaco" appears in large, stylized letters with a gradient of orange, white, and black colors that resemble a sunset or natural landscape. The letter "C" at the beginning of "Chaco" is shaped like a crescent, and the letter "O" at the end includes a spiral design, evoking a sense of movement or connection to nature. Below "Chaco," the subtitle reads "A Journey of the Spirit" in smaller white, uppercase letters. The background is entirely black, making the text and designs stand out prominently. This design suggests a theme of spirituality, nature, and exploration, aligning with the artistic and cultural elements likely conveyed in the symphony.

WSU Symphony Orchestra presents ‘Symphony Chaco’ with R. Carlos Nakai and special guests

Join an evening with the WSU Symphony Orchestra as it performs “Symphony Chaco,” featuring renowned Native American flutist R. Carlos Nakai, soprano Christina Martos and composer Gary Gackstatter as narrator. This special concert, part of the College of Fine Arts Connoisseur Series, will occur at 7:30 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 21 in Miller Concert Hall at Duerksen Fine Arts Center. Tickets are available through the Fine Arts Box Office.

“Symphony Chaco” is the result of a years-long collaboration between Gackstatter and Nakai, whose music and philosophy inspired this powerful work exploring nature, culture and connection. Gackstatter reflects, “It was not just a dream come true; it was far beyond that.”

Funding for this Connoisseur Series performance is generously provided by the Sam and Rie Bloomfield Foundation and Shoko Kato Sevart.

Epic sounds await at the Wichita State Wind Ensemble concert

Mark your calendars for a musical event with the Wichita State Wind Ensemble at 7:30 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 5 in Miller Concert Hall at Duerksen Fine Arts Center. This evening promises a captivating lineup of compositions that explore diverse emotions, themes and histories through the power of live music.

The program will open with “Nobunaga – A Shaft of Light in the Renaissance” by Eiji Suzuki, setting a dramatic and historical tone. Lee Gannon’s “Symphony No. 1” will follow, offering a compelling symphonic journey. Audiences will also experience “I Saw the Figure 5 in Gold” by James David, a vibrant tribute inspired by a renowned piece of modern art, and “A deep reverberation fills with stars” by John Mackey, a piece filled with wonder and celestial imagery.

WSU students can get one ticket at no additional charge with their Shocker IDs, thanks to the Student Government Association. Just head over to the Fine Arts Box Office in Duerksen Fine Arts Center. Additional tickets can be purchased through the Fine Arts Box Office in person or online.

The image promotes a concert by the Wichita State University Symphony Orchestra. It features a photograph of Dr. Timothy Jones, a violinist, dressed in formal attire and holding a violin, smiling at the camera. The text overlay on the image contains the following details: Text on the image: "Wichita State University Symphony Orchestra" "7:30 P.M. | Tuesday, October 29 | Miller Concert Hall" "Hagenbuch Concerto for Violin & Orchestra" "Feat. Dr. Timothy Jones, Violin" "World Premiere" "School of Music Wichita State University" This is an announcement for the world premiere of Hagenbuch's Concerto for Violin and Orchestra, featuring Dr. Timothy Jones as the soloist, happening on October 29 in Miller Concert Hall at 7:30 p.m.

Wichita State Symphony Orchestra to feature world premiere and powerful works in October concert

Join the Wichita State University Symphony Orchestra at 7:30 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 29 in Miller Concert Hall, Duerksen Fine Arts Center, for an evening of exceptional music. The concert will feature the world premiere of Robert Hagenbuch, Jr.’s “Concerto for Violin and Orchestra,” performed by acclaimed violinist Dr. Timothy Jones. This newly composed concerto is filled with lyrical melodies, intricate rhythms and haunting emotional depth.

The program also includes Jean Sibelius’ “Symphony No. 1,” composed at a time when Sibelius was emerging as a national hero in Finland. Known for works like “Kullervo” and “Finlandia,” Sibelius embodied the ideals of cultural pride and patriotism in a country long dominated by Sweden and Russia.

Mary D. Watkins’ “Soul of Remembrance,” the second movement of her monumental “Five Movements in Color,” which details the African-American experience, will also be performed. This evocative piece will be conducted by senior music education major Hannah Copeland.

This diverse and captivating program promises to leave a lasting impression on audiences. Admission is free and open to the public.

The image is a promotional graphic for an event at Wichita State University. The background features an open book with light or magical sparkles emanating from it, suggesting a theme of storytelling or magic. The text on the image is as follows: Wichita State University WU & Shocker Choirs Present Story Time 7:30 p.m. | Thursday, Oct. 10 | Wiedemann Recital Hall School of Music Wichita State University The design is dynamic and visually engaging, with bold fonts and a glowing book symbolizing the storytelling theme.

Wichita State’s Wu and Shocker Choirs present ‘Story Time,’ a musical journey through tales and legends

Wichita State’s Wu and Shocker Choirs invite you to “Story Time,” an evening of music and narrative at 7:30 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 10 in Wiedemann Hall.

Each song presents its own unique story, taking audiences on a journey through legend and mythology with “The Kracken,” social justice with “Warrior,” and even humor with P.D.Q. Bach’s “The Art of the Ground Round.” Audiences will also experience heartfelt melodies, like the South African hymn “Indodana” and folk songs like “Vichten” from Canada. The diverse repertoire includes poetic pieces such as Langston Hughes’ “I Dream a World” and the cinematic “Ripple.”

The Goddard High School Concert Choir will be featured as special guests for the evening. Tickets are $12 with discounts available. Don’t miss this opportunity to enjoy a musical tapestry of stories.

The image features a promotional graphic for a concert event. The background shows a cloudy sky with a subtle halo effect around the sun, giving a luminous and ethereal feel. The text, displayed in bold, black capital letters, reads: WICHITA SYMPHONY CHORUS ILLUMINATE OCTOBER 8 7:30 P.M. - DUERKSEN FINE ARTS CENTER WITH THE WSU CONCERT CHORALE & MADRIGAL SINGERS In the bottom right corner, there is the Wichita State University School of Music logo in yellow and black. This graphic provides details about the concert called "Illuminate," featuring the Wichita Symphony Chorus along with the WSU Concert Chorale and Madrigal Singers, to be held on October 8 at 7:30 PM in the Duerksen Fine Arts Center.

Experience the light: Don’t miss the Illuminate Concert at WSU

The School of Music invites you to a captivating evening of music at “Illuminate” at 7:30 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 8 in Miller Concert Hall. The special event will feature the Wichita Symphony Chorus, the WSO Chamber Orchestra and Wichita State’s Concert Chorale and Madrigal Singers.

The concert will highlight two modern masterpieces by renowned living composers, Jake Runestad and Elaine Hagenberg. Runestad’s “Into the Light” commemorates the 500th anniversary of the Reformation, challenging listeners to reflect on contemporary issues and how they can move beyond fear to a path of compassion. Hagenberg’s “Illuminare” explores a journey from darkness to light, ultimately restoring hope and illuminating the future.

This concert promises to be an inspiring and thought-provoking experience. Don’t miss the opportunity to witness the power of choral music that speaks to everyone’s shared humanity.

The image promotes a Wichita State University Symphony Orchestra concert. A young male violinist is shown playing a violin with focus and concentration. He has short dark hair and is wearing a black shirt. The text in the image is in bold white and yellow fonts and reads as follows: Wichita State University SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA 7:30 P.M. - Thursday, Sept. 19 Miller Concert Hall In the bottom right corner, the Wichita State University School of Music logo is displayed in yellow and black, with the text "School of Music" in stylized font. The overall design includes a bright yellow background on the right side, which gradually fades into the image of the violinist on the left.

A night of musical masterpieces: WSU Symphony Concert features faculty soloist and guest ensemble

Get ready for an evening of music with the Wichita State University Symphony Orchestra at 7:30 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 19 in Miller Concert Hall.

Faculty soloist Dr. Cristina Castaldi, soprano, will perform Samuel Barber’s “Knoxville: Summer of 1915,” a nostalgic piece set to text by James Agee. The WSU Symphony will also present Beethoven’s “Symphony No. 3 in Eb Major” (“Eroica”), a revolutionary work that was originally dedicated to Napoleon before Beethoven famously withdrew the honor. Joining the WSU Symphony is the Blue Valley Northwest High School Chamber Symphony, directed by Michael Arbucci.

The concert begins with “The Block” by Carlos Simon, a vibrant piece from 2018 inspired by the art of Romare Bearden, capturing the energy of a Harlem city block.

The image features a conductor in mid-motion, holding a baton and directing a musical ensemble. The conductor is standing in front of a music stand with sheet music, with an audience member visible in the foreground. The conductor is wearing a black polo shirt and blue jeans, with a focused expression as he gestures with his right hand. Text overlaid on the image reads: "Wichita State University WIND ENSEMBLE Thursday, Sep. 12 7:30 p.m. Miller Concert Hall" In the top left corner, there is a bright yellow starburst shape with the text: "DON'T MISS THIS!" At the bottom left of the image, there is the logo for the Wichita State University School of Music in bold yellow letters.

WSU Wind Ensemble sets the stage for 2024-25 academic year

The Wichita State University Wind Ensemble, under the direction of Dr. Timothy Shade, will kick off the 2024-25 academic year at 7:30 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 12 in Miller Concert Hall. The concert will feature a variety of evocative and thought-provoking works, including Kelijah Dunton’s “Moving Paths,” a powerful piece inspired by Nelson Mandela’s resilience, and David Maslanka’s “Morning Star,” a vibrant work celebrating new beginnings.

Also featured is Jacob A. Harrison’s “Urban Pulse,” which captures the energetic, ever-changing nature of city life, and Kevin Charoensri’s “Rising Light,” an expression of solidarity and celebration of Asian-American identity in response to recent violence. The program concludes with Dan Welcher’s “Zion,” a tribute to the grandeur of Zion National Park and the unyielding spirit of early settlers.

This performance also celebrates the Wind Ensemble’s recent distinction as a National Finalist for The American Prize in performance of American music.

Faculty Chamber Music Series Presents: Welcome Spring! 3 p.m. Saturday, April 20, Wiedemann Recital Hall

Faculty Chamber Music Series presents ‘Welcome Spring!’

The School of Music is excited to present “Welcome Spring!” to kickstart its Faculty Chamber Music Series at 3 p.m. Saturday, April 20 in Wiedemann Hall. There is no better way to celebrate the energy and beauty of this time of year than by playing and listening to the iconic and thrilling melodies of Aaron Copland’s Appalachian Spring.

It will present the original 13-instrument version as a chamber offering. The one-hour concert is also a celebration of the musical excellence of the WSU School of Music faculty and alumni. Other selections will include riveting two piano repertoire and new works for piano and saxophone.

WSU students can present their Shocker ID and get a ticket at no additional charge in advance at the Fine Arts Box Office in Duerksen Fine Arts Center during operating hours.

Tickets can be purchased online through the Fine Arts Box Office or by phone at 316-978-3233. Online sales are suspended three hours before an event.

The box office opens one hour before the event at the performance venue. Doors open 30 minutes before start time.