Events include:

“The Dream of America,” Tar River Orchestra, Saturday, October 4, 7:30 PM, The Dunn Center for the Performing Arts

Experience the Spirit of America in Music. Join the Tar River Orchestra for an unforgettable evening as we celebrate the American spirit through music, storytelling, and history. At the heart of the program is Ellis Island: The Dream of America by Peter Boyer—a powerful, multimedia tribute to the immigrant experience that helped shape our nation. This moving work blends orchestral music with live actors and projected historical images from the Ellis Island archives, bringing real immigrant stories to life on stage.

Also featured on the program:

• Selections from The American Suite by Antonín Dvořák, capturing the energy and diversity of the New World through the eyes of a visiting composer.

• A special performance by Olivia Li, our Young Artist Competition winner, showcasing her talent in the first movement of Grieg’s Piano Concerto in A Minor.

Don’t miss this inspiring evening that honors the dreams, struggles, and hope of generations who came to America in search of a better life.

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“Fire & Ice,” Tar River Chorus; Saturday, November 8, 7:30 PM, First Baptist Church, Rocky Mount

Experience the striking contrasts of Fire and Ice as the Tar River Chorus presents a captivating program exploring themes of heat and cold, passion and stillness. Just like the November weather in North Carolina, this concert spans the musical spectrum—from fiery intensity to icy calm.

The eclectic lineup includes classical selections such as the world premiere of our own Nikita Myullyari’s SATB arrangement of Jean Sibelius’s The Origin of Fire, alongside familiar pop favorites and genre-crossing surprises. Join us for an evening that promises to be both thought-provoking and thoroughly entertaining!

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“The Heart of Christmas,” Tar River Children’s Chorus and Youth Strings, Saturday, December 6, 7:30 PM, First Baptist Church

Experience the true spirit of the season with The Heart of Christmas, featuring the award-winning Tar River Children’s Chorus and the Tar River Strings. This beloved holiday tradition brings together beautifully arranged carols and contemporary favorites, offering a joyful and moving celebration that leads us straight to the heart of Christmas.

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“Have Yourself A Swingin’ Little Christmas,” Tar River Swing Band, Tuesday, December 16,

7:30 PM, The Dunn Center for the Performing Arts

Join the Tar River Swing Band as we celebrate Christmas with classic holiday tunes in a swingin’ style as well as some traditional swing tunes you know and love!

 

Special Event (Not included in the season ticket)

“Every Breath You Take: The Music of Sting & The Police,” Tar River Orchestra with Jeans ‘n Classics, Friday, February 6, 7:30 PM, The Dunn Center for the Performing Arts

Get ready for an unforgettable night as the Tar River Orchestra teams up once again with Canada’s renowned Jeans ‘n Classics for The Music of Sting and The Police. Experience the iconic sound of this legendary '80s rock band with electrifying hits like “Roxanne,” “Message in a Bottle,” “Every Breath You Take,” and many more—brought to life with the power and richness of a full orchestra.

Whether you're a lifelong fan or discovering this music for the first time, this high-energy performance will have you swaying, singing along, and smiling all night long.

Enhance your evening with a pre-concert reception featuring hors d’oeuvres and drinks (separate ticket required).

 

"Reflections for the Soul featuring John Rutter's Requiem," Saturday, March 21, 7:30 PM, Tar River Chorus, First Baptist Church

Celebrate the enduring beauty of choral music with the Tar River Chorus in a special performance marking the 40th anniversary of John Rutter’s beloved Requiem. Known for its lyrical grace and emotional depth, this modern classic continues to offer comfort and inspiration through its radiant melodies and serene reflections. Rutter’s deeply personal work will be performed with his original chamber orchestration—featuring flute, oboe, cello, timpani, glockenspiel, harp, and organ—highlighting the piece’s intimacy and expressive power.

This memorable program also includes the world premiere of a new composition by conductor Michael J. Glasgow, written for the same elegant ensemble. Be part of the first audience to experience this stirring new work as it takes the stage for the very first time.

 

“Journey Through America’s Songbook,” Tar River Swing Band with special guests, Tuesday, May 12, 7:30 PM, The Dunn Center for the Performing Arts

Celebrate the rich legacy of American music with the Tar River Swing Band as they take you on a Journey Through America’s Songbook. From the spirited sounds of Dixieland and the golden age of Swing to the soulful rhythms of Blues and Jazz, this concert honors the timeless styles that define our nation’s musical voice.

Joining the band for this unforgettable evening are acclaimed guest artists and favorites of the North Carolina Jazz Festival: vocalist, Lucy Yeghiazaryan; percussionist, Chuck Redd; trumpeter, Bruce Harris; trombonist, Charlie Halloran; pianist, Rossano Sportiello; and saxophonist, Ken Peplowski.

Come early and enjoy a lively pre-concert reception with hors d’oeuvres, drinks, and entertainment by members of the swing band (separate ticket required). Don’t miss this extraordinary night of jazz excellence and musical camaraderie—sure to be one of our season’s highlights!