Calendar

UPDATED 5/5/25

Tuesday, May 20, 2025
Peninsula Youth Orchestra Fall Auditions
Peninsula Youth Orchestra is an ensemble of young musicians ranging from ages 10 to 25. It was founded by local musician Elizabeth Chapman in 1960 and in a decade grew to a full symphony orchestra. In 2020 it became an official program of Soundscapes. The orchestra is holding auditions for its 2025-2026 season. Auditions will be in May and in September. To sign up for auditions go to:
https://www.soundscapes.org/programs/peninsula-youth-orchestra

Now Streaming: New Voices: Lost/Found I
Brooklyn Art Song Society. For the next seven days, the digital release of New Voices: Lost/Found I is now streaming! This compelling opening program for our acclaimed contemporary Art Song festival features the World Premiere of Nothing Can End, a powerful new cycle by Cecilia Livingston exploring family, loss, and the enduring force of love.The program also includes a celebration of the recent flourishing of songs by Black composers and encore performances of BASS commissions by Eve Beglarian and Scott Wheeler. Stream now: https://vimeo.com/1078731906

Friday, May 16, 2025, 7:30 pm
VAF: An Evening with Kelli O'Hara
Virginia Arts Festival will present “the undisputed queen of Broadway” (The Times), Kelli O’Hara, with the Virginia Symphony Orchestra and music director and conductor Rob Fisher, for a spellbinding evening of song, including Broadway favorites and a new work by celebrated American composer Libby Larsen, which sets to enchanting music lovely poems by former U.S. Poet Laureate Joy Harjo. Tickets: $25 - $75. Online here: https://secure.vafest.org/2750 or at the Virginia Arts Festival Box Office (757) 282-2822. Sandler Center for the Performing Arts, 201 Market Street, Virginia Beach 23462

Sunday, June 1, 2025, 3:00 pm
VAF: Renée Fleming, soprano In Recital
Voice of Nature: The Anthropocene
One of the most beloved and celebrated singers of our time, 2023 Kennedy Center Honoree and National Medal of Arts recipient Renée Fleming captivates audiences around the world with her sumptuous voice, consummate artistry, and compelling stage presence. In this breathtaking performance inspired by the Grammy Award-winning album, Fleming explores humankind’s evolving relationship with nature, performing works by Handel, Björk, Fauré, and Jerome Kern, with a beautiful projected film created for the program with National Geographic. Tickets: $35 - $125. Online here: https://secure.vafest.org/2656 or at the Virginia Arts Festival Box Office (757) 282-2822. Harrison Opera House, 160 W. Virginia Beach Blvd., Norfolk

Second Date Added
Wednesday, July 30, 2025, 7:30 pm
Thursday, July 31, 2025, 7:30
VAF: Laufey: A Night at the Symphony with Virginia Symphony Orchestra
Laufey returns to Virginia Arts Festival in a new partnership with Chartway Arena. The jazz singer, composer, multi-instrumentalist, and producer will be joined by the Virginia Symphony Orchestra. “As a musician, my goal is to bring jazz and classical music to my generation,” declares GRAMMY-winning composer, singer, producer, and multi-instrumentalist Laufey. In 2022, the Icelandic-Chinese artist’s trailblazing approach paid off, with a performance on Jimmy Kimmel LIVE! in support of her debut album Everything I Know About Love, sold-out tours of North America, Asia, and Australia, and she was the most streamed jazz artist on Spotify. Tickets: $65 - $95. Online here: https://secure.vafest.org/2761/2762 or at the Virginia Arts Festival Box Office (757) 282-2822. Chartway Arean, 4320 Hampton Blvd, Norfolk, VA 23508

Audition Announcement!
Auditions for the Virginia Chorale's 2025-2026 season will be held on May 5
Come sing with the foremost professional choral ensemble in Virginia! Want details? View the registration form below. We are seeking all voice types. Please help us spread the word! Questions? Contact Kristin Ball, our Managing Director, at info@vachorale.org.
Register here: https://www.vachorale.org/audition-registration-2025-2026.html

Wednesday, May 7, 2024, 12:00 noon
St. Bede: Duo Beaux Arts: Catherine Lan and Tao Lin, Pianists
International competition winning ensemble Duo Beaux Arts was formed in 2008 by world renowned husband and wife concert pianists and recording artists Catherine Lan and Tao Lin. All are invited to this free concert of thrilling solo piano and piano duet music performed on our stunning Steinway Model D 9ft. concert grand piano. The program will include music by C. Debussy, J. Brahms, J. Strauss, and more. For more information call (757) 229-3631, or visit www.bedeva.org/concerts. Saint Bede Catholic Church, 3686 Ironbound Road, Williamsburg

Wednesday, May 7, 2025, 7:00 pm
ASFJM:Sing Memory
The American Society of Jewish Music and Holocaust Music Lost and Found invites you to A book Discussion & Recital. Sing Memory, The Remarkable Story of the Man Who Saved the Music of the Nazi Camps by Makana Eyre, In Conversation With Bret Werb, Musicologist, U.S. Holocaust Memorial Museum. Recital Choral and Chamber Music From the Times. Free Event. Registration Required. For more information: email info@hmlf.org or visit https://hmlf.org Hebrew Union College, 1 West 4th Street (at Broadway), New York, NY 10012

Wednesday, May 7, 2025, 7:30 pm
VAF: Edgar Meyer, double bass; Tessa Lark, violin; Joshua Roman, cello
Virginia Arts Festival. String’s the thing in this virtuosic evening! The only bassist ever to be awarded the Avery Fisher Prize, Edgar Meyer is known for his inspired collaborations with artists of all genres. His newest adventure includes the extraordinary classical violinist and Kentucky fiddler Tessa Lark and cellist/composer Joshua Roman, who “combines the expressive control of Casals with the creative individuality and virtuoso flair of Hendrix” (Gramophone). Tickets: https://www.vafest.org or visit 440 Bank Street, Norfolk, VA 23510. Box Office: 757-282-2822. William & Mary Arts Center, Concert Hall, 551 Jamestown Road, Williamsburg

Thursday, May 8, 2025, 5:00 pm
OiW: Live Auction, Dinner & Concert
Live auction, dinner, and concert to benefit Opera in Williamsburg. With Singers of Opera in Williamsburg’s Madama Butterfly. The evening will include also a live auction of 11 items and a paddle raise to benefit Opera in Williamsburg. Dinner and concert $85, menu choices, cash bar. Please reserve dinner tickets by May 1 at https://operainwilliamsburgvirginia.thundertix.com/events/239064
Tickets may also be reserved by phone at (757) 871-3653. Colonial Heritage Clubhouse, 6500 Arthur Hills Drive, Williamsburg, VA 23188

Thursday, May 8, 2025, 7:00 pm
GSA Chamber Orchestra
This concert features varied repertoire with soloists, wonderfully performed by a chamber orchestra (with guest vocalists) of 33 students from the Governor’s School for the Arts - Stephen Coxe, conductor. Program: Peter Warlock, Capriol Suite; Maurice Ravel, Don Quichotte à Dulcinée, Devin White, baritone. J. S. Bach, Brandenburg Concerto No. 4, Evelyn White and Elisabeth Writtenberry, flutes, Sascha Burhop, violin. Aaron Copland, Quiet City, Noah Gee, trumpet, Sophie Spears, English horn. Paul Hindemith, Trauermusik, Jordan Tesoro, viola. Richard Strauss, Morgen!, Abigail Bodvake, soprano. Charles Ives, The Unanswered Question, Noah Gee, trumpet, Evelyn White, Elisabeth Writtenberry, flutes; Sophie Spears and Sam Sewell, oboes. Tickets (online): $20 General, $10 Students & Seniors, $5 GSA Students. https://gsa.booktix.com/dept/IM/e/Chamber/p/9 Old Dominion University Theatre, 4600 Hampton Boulevard, Norfolk

The Governor's School for the Arts May Events
The Governor's School for the Arts. Unless otherwise noted, all events are free and take place at the Governor's School for the Arts building at 254 Granby St, Norfolk, VA 23510. All ticketing is online only at showtix4u.com. No Walk-up ticket sales unless otherwise noted. GSA, 254 Granby Street, Norfolk, VA 23510
Thursday, May 8, 2025, 6:00-8:00 pm/Awards at 7:00 pm
37th Annual Spring Juried Art Exibition
Art Department. TCC Visual Arts and Design Center, 260 Boush Street, Norfolk
Thursday, May 8, 2025, 7:00 pm
Chamber Orchestra Concert
Instrumental Music Department. See listing above. ODU University Theatre, 4600 Hampton Blvd., Norfolk
May 8-10, 2025, 7:00 pm
May 11, 2025, 3:00 pm
Almost Maine
Theatre and Film Department. In the enchanting town of Almost, Maine, the Northern Lights paint the sky with magic as couples navigate the twists of romance. As love blossoms and sometimes falters, each story intertwines in a delicate dance, capturing the heart's complexities amidst the town's mystical aurora. Tickets: General admission: $20; Seniors/Students: $10; GSA Student: $5. https://gsa.booktix.com/dept/theatre/e/AM Goode Theatre, ODU, 4601 Monarch Way, Norfolk 23529
Wednesday, May 14, 2025, 7:00 pm
Chamber Music
Instrumental Music. Free. Miner Music Hall, GSA, 254 Granby Street, Norfolk 23510
Sunday, May 18, 2025, 7:30 pm
Annual Student Film Festival
Theatre and Film Department. NARO Expanded Cinema, 1507 Colley Ave., Norfolk
Wednesday, May 21, 2025, 7:00 pm
Thursday, May 22, 2025, 7:00 pm
Opera Scenes
Old Dominion University Theatre, 4600 Hampton Blvd., Norfolk
Thursday, May 22, 2025, 7:30 pm
Friday, May 23, 2025, 7:30 pm
Saturday, May 24, 2025, 7:30 pm
Spring Dance Concert
Goode Performing Arts Center, Virginia Wesleyan University, 5817 Wesleyan Dr, Virginia Beach, VA 23455
Wednesday, May 28, 2025, 7:00 pm
Piano Recital
Instrumental Music. Free. Miner Music Hall, GSA, 254 Granby Street, Norfolk 23510
Thursday, May 29, 2025, 7:00 pm
Orchestra Spring Season Finale Concert
Instrumental Music Department. ODU University Theatre, 4600 Hampton Blvd., Norfolk
Friday, May 30, 2025, 7:00 pm
Jazz
Zeiders American Dream Theatre, 4509 Commerce St, Virginia Beach, VA 23462

Bruton Parish Candlelight Concerts & Historic Organ Recitals, May, 2025
Continuing a tradition begun by our 18th-century organist, Peter Pelham, Bruton Parish presents more than 120 recitals and concert programs annually in its Candlelight Concert series. Instrumental and choral groups from all over the United States and other countries perform in our historic church, interspersed with organ and harpsichord recitals by our own splendid musicians. The Candlelight and outdoor concerts will last approximately 45 minutes, and the Wren Recitals will last just 30 minutes.  All are non-ticketed and open to the public, with freewill offerings gratefully received. Masks are required only for those not yet vaccinated. Free parking on Duke of Gloucester Street. Rebecca Davy, Music Director & Organist; Dr. JanEl Will, Organist & Choir Director; James Darling, Choirmaster & Organist Emeritus. Contact: bdavy@brutonparish.org or (757) 645-3431. www.brutonparish.org.
Candlelight Concerts in Bruton Parish Church
Thursday, May 8, 8:00 pm
Organ Recital
Carson Cooman, Organist & Composer in Residence at Harvard’s University Church in Boston, MA
Saturday, May 10, 8:00 pm
Handbell Concert
Bruton Parish Tarpley Ringers, Rebecca Davy, Director, with JanEl Will, Organist
Monday, May 12, 8:00 pm
Chamber Vocal Concert
Alium Spiritum Vocal Quartet based Brownsville, TX, Diane Walters, Soprano & Executive Director, Lara Alami, Alto, Daniel Parks, Tenor & Sean Taylor, Bass & Artistic Director
Thursday, May 15, 8:00 pm
Chamber Music Concert
Fluteforte from Richmond, Virginia, Susan Davis, Director
Saturday, May 17, 8:00 pm
Youth Choral Concert
Lynnfield Middle School Pioneer Singers from Lynnfield, MA, Stephen Bloom, Director
Thursday, May 22, 8:00 pm
Youth Choral Concert
Clover High School Choraliers from Clover, SC, Jay Forrest, Director
Saturday, May 24, 8:00 pm
Youth Choral Concert
Osbourn Park High School Madrigal Singers from Manassas, VA, Dominick Izzo, Director
Thursday, May 29, 8:00 pm
Boys Choir Concert
Birmingham Boys Choir, from Birmingham, AL, Ken Berg, Director
Saturday, May 31, 8:00 pm
Chamber Music Concert
The Richmond Clarinet Choir from Richmond, VA, Anne Caldiron, Director
Historic Organ Recitals in the William & Mary Wren Chapel
Saturday, 10:00 am on May 10 – Carson Cooman, Organist
Cancelled
Saturday, 10:00 am on May17 – Thomas Marshall, Organist
Saturday, 10:00 am on May 24 – Norman Elton, Organist
Saturday, 10:00 am on May 31 – Thomas Marshall, Organist

Friday, May 9, 2025, 7:30 pm
Saturday, May 10, 2025, 7:30 pm
VSO: Mahler’s Ninth Symphony
Virginia Symphony Orchestra. Gustav Mahler’s Ninth Symphony has been called sublime, lush, and mind-blowing. For Eric Jacobsen, Music Director of the Virginia Symphony Orchestra, it is “one of the greatest accomplishments of humanity—on par with architectural masterpieces like the Taj Mahal and the Duomo in Florence.” Recently diagnosed with a terminal heart condition, Mahler composed his Ninth Symphony, his final completed symphony, while confronting his own mortality. The emotional work takes the listener on a musical journey from the beauty of life to the tranquility of the great unknown. Don’t miss the opportunity to hear this monumental masterpiece LIVE with the Virginia Symphony Orchestra! Co-presented with the Virginia Arts Festival. Tickets: $15 - $79. May 9: https://tickets.virginiasymphony.org/mahlers9th/fergusoncenter
Ferguson Center for the Arts, 1 University Place, Newport News, VA. May 10: https://tickets.virginiasymphony.org/mahlers9th/sandlercenter
Sandler Center for the Performing Arts, 201 Market Street, Towne Center, Virginia Beach

VA Opera: Loving v. Virginia World Premiere
VA Opera caps off the 50th Anniversary season with the highly anticipated world premiere of Loving v. Virginia. A young couple’s interracial marriage in 1958 sparks a case that leads to the Supreme Court and a victory for civil rights in the United States. This operatic retelling is based on the true story of Mildred and Richard Loving. Music by Damien Geter, Libretto by Jessica Murphy Moo. Commissioned by: VA Opera in partnership with ICA at VCU. Co-produced by Virginia Opera and Minnesota Opera. Sung in English with English Surtitles. Conducted by Adam Turner; Directed by Denyce Graves; Set Design by Mikiko Suzuki MacAdams Costume Design by Jessica Jahn; The orchestra for this production is provided by the Richmond Symphony. Join us 45 minutes before each performance for a pre-show lecture. Tickets: Norfolk: https://ticketing.vaopera.org/overview/loving-v-virginia. Fairfax: https://cfa.calendar.gmu.edu/virginia-opera-loving-v-virginia. Richmond: https://www.etix.com/ticket/e/1045891/
Richmond
Friday, May 9, 2025, 7:30 PM
Saturday, May 10, 2024, 7:30 PM
Sunday, May 11, 2025, 2:30 PM
The Carpenter Theatre at Dominion Energy Center, 600 E Grace St Suite 400, Richmond, VA 23219

Saturday, May 10, 2025, 7:30 pm
Sunday, May 11, 2025, 4:00 pm
WCG: Brahms Requiem
Williamsburg Choral Guild, Daniel Edward Parks, Artistic Director. Blessed are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted. Johannes Brahms selected this text to begin his monumental — yet deeply personal — choral masterwork: A German Requiem. Written in honor of his mother and his mentor, Robert Schumann, Brahms referred to the work as “A Human Requiem.” The Williamsburg Choral Guild will present the Brahms Requiem in Williamsburg and Newport News accompanied by a professional chamber orchestra with guest vocal soloists Adult tickets: $20 in advance / $25 at the door; Student tickets $10 with ID; no cost for children under 12. A group rate of $17 per ticket is available for online orders with 10 or more adult tickets. Purchase Tickets Online: https://www.williamsburgchoralguild.org/tickets/ May 10 : William & Mary Music Arts Concert Hall 551 Jamestown Rd.; Williamsburg. May 11 : St. Andrews Episcopal Church; 45 Main St., Newport News, VA

CNU Department of Music May Events
Unless otherwise noted, all events are free and open to the public and are subject to change. Please contact the Department of Music at (757) 594-7089 or visit the CNU Music home page at music.cnu.edu for updated information and student recitals. Ferguson Center for the Arts Box Office: (757) 594-8752. Event venue unless otherwise noted: Peebles Theatre, Ferguson Center for the Arts, Christopher Newport University, Newport News.
Saturday, May 10, 2025, 9:00 am - 6:00 pm
Virginia Community Music Festival
Featuring community bands, orchestras, jazz ensembles, chamber music, and professional workshops in the future of radio (Raymond Jones, WHRO) and marketing community ensembles Special performance on May 10th at 7:30 p.m. in Diamonstein Concert Hall by the CNU Wind Ensemble under the direction of guest student conductors from around the world participating in the International Symposia of Emerging Conductors (ISEC). Ticket Required, Admission charged for 8pm Special Event Concert. Diamonstein Concert Hall
Saturday, May 10, 2025, 11:00 am
Chamber Music. Peebles Theatre
Saturday, May 10, 2025, 1:00 pm
York River Concert Band Diamondstein Concert Hall
Saturday, May 10, 2025, 2:00 pm
Peninsula Concert Band Diamonstein Concert Hall
Saturday, May 10, 2025, 3:00 pm
Higher Ground Big Band Diamonstein Concert Hall
Saturday, May 10, 2025, 4:00 pm
Stan's Big Band Diamonstein Concert Hall
Saturday, May 10, 2025, 7:30 pm
ISEC Winds Ensemble Diamonstein Concert Hall
Sunday, May 11, 2025, 1:00 pm - 6:00 pm
Virginia Community Music Festival
Featuring community bands, orchestras, and choirs in Hampton Roads. Free Event.
Sunday, May 11, 2025, 3:00 pm
Courthouse Community Orchestra. Diamondstein Concert Hall
Sunday, May 11, 2025, 4:00 pm
York River Symphonoy Orchestra Diamondstein Concert Hall
Sunday, May 11, 2025, 5:00 pm
Hampton Roads Philharmonic Diamonstein Concert Hall
Sunday, May 11, 2025, 6:00 pm
Chesapeake Bay Wind Ensemble Diamonstein Concert Hall

Sunday, May 11, 2025, 3:00 pm
YRSO: Community Music Festival
The York River Symphony Orchestra, conductor, Eric Reiff; conductor, Clint Correll. Just as a 40 year anniversary is marked with commitment and devotion, join us in our commitment to lavish on you a buffet of musical delicacies. Back at the Ferguson Center take in music by America's Most Beloved Composer, Leroy Anderson and light classics by Rimsky-Korsakov, Khachaturian, and Glazounov. Program is free and open to the public. Diamonstein Concert Hall, The Ferguson Center, CNU, 1 Avenue of the Arts, Newport News, VA 23602

Sunday, May 11, 2025, 4:00 pm
VAF: Alcée Chriss III, organ
Virginia Arts Festival. For the organ aficionado, Alcée Chriss is the real deal: impeccably trained, a veteran of some of the world’s great organs, rooted in the classics but adventurous in his choices of repertoire and playing “with clarity, imagination, musicality, virtuosity, and yes, personality” (American Record Guide). Hear this young star reveal the beauties of Christ & St. Luke’s great organ in this Sunday afternoon concert. Tickets: https://www.vafest.org or visit 440 Bank Street, Norfolk, VA 23510. Box Office: 757-282-2822. Christ & St. Luke's Church, 560 W Olney Road, Norfolk, Virginia, 23507

Sunday, May 11, 2025, 5:00 pm
HRP: Community Music Festival
The Hampton Roads Philharmonic is thrilled to participate in the 4th Annual Virginia Community Music Festival, hosted by Christopher Newport University on May 10-11, 2025. This festival is a celebration of community music, bringing together ensembles from across Virginia for a weekend of public performances, educational workshops, and inspiring lectures. The Hampton Roads Philharmonic will once again perform Tchaikovsky’s Symphony No. 5. Composed in 1888, this symphony is a profound exploration of fate and destiny, themes that are woven through its sweeping melodies and powerful orchestration. Tchaikovsky’s genius for creating emotionally charged and richly textured music has made this symphony a beloved cornerstone of the classical repertoire. In addition to our performance, the festival will feature workshops and lectures on health for adult musicians, audience development, fundraising, and more. We encourage you to attend all weekend to support your local performing arts organizations. Program is free and open to the public. Diamonstein Concert Hall, The Ferguson Center, CNU, 1 Avenue of the Arts, Newport News, VA 23602

Tuesday, May 13, 2025, 7:30 pm
WWC Spring Concert: Our Voice: Music of Our Time
Williamsburg Womens Chorus. The program, entitled "Our Voice: Music of Our Time" includes "Spells" by British composer Bob Chilcott, a song cycle setting four magical poems by Kathleen Raine; "Five Sea Songs" by Australian singer and composer Daniel Brinsmead, and "Today, This Spring" by American composer Libby Larsen. The Chorus is directed by Artistic Director Rebecca Davy, and accompanied by pianist Karen Ives. Those interested in auditioning for and learning more about the Williamsburg Women's Chorus can visit www.WilliamsburgWomensChorus.org. Suggested donation at the door is $15 per adult, $10 for students. Williamsburg Presbyterian Church, 215 Richmond Road, Williamsburg

May 13, 15, 17, 18, 21, 23, 25, 2025, 7:30 pm
HBO: Faust
Heartbeat Opera. A classic tale. A wild retelling. A lonely scholar makes a bargain with the devil, and all hell breaks loose. Heartbeat Opera’s distinctly American adaptation tells the story of Faust and Marguerite — a man who wildly misuses his regained youth, a young woman whose potential for life and love is cut tragically short, and the ravaged community left in their wake. Retelling one of most popular operas of all time, we ask what happens when the soul hasn’t evolved along with the mind? When voracious ego rules us, and reckless forward motion is all? A brand new 90-minute adaptation, sung in French with new English dialogues.Music by Charles Gounod; Original Libretto by Jules Barbier and Michel Carré from Carré's play Faust et Marguerite; Co-Adapted by Jacob Ashworth and Sara Holdren; Newly Arranged by Dan Schlosber; New English dialogues by Sara Holdren; Directed by Sara Holdren; Music Directed by Jacob Ashworth. Orson Van Gay II as Faust, Rachel Kobernick as Marguerite, John Taylor Ward as Mephistopheles. https://www.heartbeatopera.org/faust. Baruch Performing Arts Center, 55 Lexington Avenue 25th St. between 3rd & Lexington Aves, New York, NY 10010

Wedneday, May 14, 2025, 7:30 pm
WSO: Masterworks Concert 4: From the New World
Williamsburg Symphony Orchestra, Michael Butterman, conductor. Guest Artists: R. Carlos Nakai, Native American flute & Leah Glenn Dance Theatre We open with the soul-stirring melodies of the Native American flute from the legendary R. Carlos Nakai. Honoring local history, we present the world premiere of Secrets: A Tribute to the Brafferton Indian School by GRAMMYnominated composer Dawn Avery, featuring Leah Glenn Dance Theatre. This unique collaboration celebrates the indigenous peoples who attended this school and inhabited the land that is now part of the campus of William & Mary. The season draws to a dramatic close with Dvorak’s beloved “New World Symphony,” overflowing with influences from European, African American, and Native American musical traditions. Join us for a concert that celebrates cultural heritage and the universal language of music that unites us all. Pre-Concert Talk: 6:30–7:00 p.m. Tickets: $15-$70. https://www.tix.com/ticket-sales/WilliamsburgSymphonyOrchestra/1688 Livestream: $40. Williamsburg Community Chapel, 3899 John Tyler Hwy, Williamsburg, VA 23185

Wednesday, May 14, 2025, 7:30 pm
VAF: Béla Fleck, Edmar Castañeda and Antonio Sánchez Trio
18-time GRAMMY® winner Béla Fleck — the world’s premier banjo virtuoso and a celebrated musical adventurer — has both explored his instrument’s complex global history and unlocked the breadth of its possibilities. For over 30 years, he has led Béla Fleck & The Flecktones, the groundbreaking quartet inspired by jazz, funk, bluegrass and beyond. He has written and performed three banjo concertos and traced the African origins of the banjo with the award-winning 2009 documentary Throw Down Your Heart. Collaborators include Abigail Washburn, the Brooklyn Rider String Qartet, Chris Thile, The Blind Boys of Alabama, McCoy Tyner, Zakir Hussain, Edgar Meyer, and Rakesh Chaurasia. Fleck returns to Virginia Arts Festival with his latest project, featuring acclaimed harpist Edmar Castañeda and drummer Antonio Sánchez for an innovative and dynamic fusion of sounds. Tickets: https://secure.vafest.org/2679. Box Office: 757-282-2822. Perry Pavilion, 451 Bank St, Norfolk, VA 23510

Thursday, May 15, 2025, 7:00 pm
Choral Compline
Galillee Church Choral Compline. Join us on the Third Thursday of each month as the choir leads us through this 15-minute candlelit service. This is a wonderful opportunity to allow the ancient prayers and chants of the church to wash over you at the end of the day. Galillee Church, 3928 Pacific Ave, Virginia Beach, VA 23451

Thursday, May 15, 2025, 7:30 pm
Opera Baltimore: Thirsty Thursdays at the Opera
Opera Baltimore. Join us for a fun evening of beer + opera tasting in the swanky Engineers Club! Hear opera singers perform a few feet from you, while you sip 4 beverages specially selected to complement the music. A night like no other in Baltimore! Tickets: $39. https://operabaltimore.app.getcuebox.com/o/GFSJT6VK/shows/QCZMTWL7 The Engineers Club, 11 W. Mount Vernon Place, Baltimore, MD 21201

VAF: Town Bank Jazz Series
Great jazz lights up spring nights at the Sandler Center’s intimate Studio Theatre! Curated by local fan favorite, bassist Jimmy Masters, the series presents some of the best players from New York and beyond. Cabaret seating lends a club atmosphere as you savor the music. Tickets: $30. Box Office: 757-282-2822. Miler Studio Theatre, Sandler Center for the Performing Arts, 201 Market Street, Virginia Beach 23462
Thursday, May 15, 2025, 7:30 pm
Lena Seikaly, vocalist
“One of Washington’s preeminent jazz singers” (The Washington Post), Lena Seikaly is a classically trained mezzo-soprano who can swing — and scat — with the best of them.Tickets: $30. https://secure.vafest.org/2692
Thursday, June 19, 2025, 7:30 pm
Sachal Vasandani, vocalist
“A bright young singer with charisma to spare” (The New York Times), this favorite of the New York jazz scene is as comfortable crooning as he is with vocalese, and counts among his fans Wynton Marsalis, who hails his “emotion and intellect.”Tickets: $30. https://secure.vafest.org/2696

Friday, May 16, 2025, 7:30 pm
Saturday, May 17, 2025, 2:30 & 7:30 pm
Sunday, May 18, 2025, 2:30 & 7:30 pm
Inseries: Ethiopia
The long-awaited world premiere of the first “living newspaper,” Ethiopia concludes Inseries 2024-25 season. The work was banned by the Roosevelt administration and never performed, until now. Written in 1937, this production fuses theater and music to tell the hot-off-the-press story of Italy’s colonialist attack on Haile Selassie’s Ethiopia while the world stayed silent. In this reconstruction, with vivid new texts by Sybil R. Williams and music by Janelle GillJazz, classical, and African music blend and soar in this history-making musical moment. https://www.inseries.org/ Tickets: https://ci.ovationtix.com/36494/production/1236176. 340 Maple Drive, D.C. Waterfront/Wharf

Saturday, May 17, 2025, 4:00 pm
MMCS: Armed Forces Day Band with Ice Cream Social
Mildred McDaniel Concert Series. Regional military band musicians will be featured in this special concert which, weather permitting, will be outside on the back lawn of Reformation along with ice cream for an enjoyable Spring afternoon. Join us for an afternoon of rousing patriotic music and other popular selections to honor Armed Forces Day—a treat for the entire family. Bring your lawn chair. The concert is free and open to the public. Contributions will be accepted to help support the Concert Series. The concert is free and open to the public. Contributions will be accepted to help support the Concert Series. Reformation Lutheran Church, 13100 Warwick Boulevard, Newport News, VA  23602

Saturday, May 17, 2025, 7:00 pm
VBC: Love is All You Need
The Virginia Beach Chorale presents A Celebration of Love Songs Through the Ages including All You Need is Love, Unforgettable, Stop in the Name of Love, I'll be Seeing You, Bring Him Home and many more! Ticket information and concert details can be found online at sandlercenter.org/ and ticketmaster.com/Sandler Center for the Performing Arts, 201 Market St. Virginia Beach, VA 23462

Saturday, May 17, 2025, 7:00 pm
HRP: A MOXART Concert
The Hampton Roads Philharmonic, under the baton of Music Director Steven Brindle. We’re closing out the season with something truly special. We’ll be sharing the stage with soloists from Moxart, a nonprofit that gives talented amateur musicians the rare chance to perform with a full orchestra. You’ll hear Beethoven’s majestic “Emperor” Piano Concerto and Schumann’s lyrical Concerto in A Minor. Two incredible works, performed by passionate musicians, in one moving evening. FREE – Donations appreciated Ella Fitzgerald Theater at the Downing-Gross Cultural Arts Center, 2410 Wickham Ave, Newport News, VA 23607

Saturday, May 17, 2025, 7:30 pm
Stephen Coxe & Friends: Songfest
This final concert of “Stephen Coxe and Friends” for 2024-2025 continues a multi-year ‘tradition’ of concluding the season with a concert featuring all singers! Ottorino Respighi, Dietà Silvane - Shelly Milam, soprano. Stephen Coxe, Break of Noon [World Premiere - poems of Emily Dickinson] - Anna Feucht, soprano. Claude Debussy, Ariettes oubliées - Kathryn Kelly, soprano. Richard Strauss, Brentano Lieder - Anna Feucht, soprano. Robert Schumann, Duette Op. 78 - Elise Ramos Krepcho, soprano - Gary Montgomery, tenor. Robert Schumann, Mondnacht, Op. 39, No. 5 - Gary Montgomery, tenor. Suggested donation (at the door): $15 General, $5 Students First Presbyterian Church of Virginia Beach, 300 36th Street, Virginia Beach

Friday, May 17, 2025,7:30 pm
Saturday, May 18, 2025, 7:30 pm
CCO: Opera Highlights
Commmonwealth Concert Opera. Some of your favorite arias, ensembles and choruses from the opera world, including excerpts from La Traviata, Carmen, Manon Lescaut, Turandot, Pagliacci and more! Tickets: $20 Adult/$10 Student. https://www.commonwealthconcertopera.com/ Westminster Presbyterian Church, 4103 Monument Ave, Richmond, VA 23230

Met Live in HD 2024-2025 Season
The Met's 2024–25 spring season of live movie theater transmissions features five extraordinary operas. Tickets are now on sale in the United States and Canada. International ticketing dates will vary—please check your local listings. https://www.metopera.org/season/in-cinemas/theater-finder/
These live cinema transmissions are part of the Met’s award-winning Live in HD series, bringing opera to movie theaters across the globe. English StreamText captioning is available for the Met’s transmissions here: https://www.streamtext.net/player?event=MET_Opera_Live_in_HD
A transcript of the transmission will also be available to view after eash live performance.
Saturday, May 17, 2025, 1:00 pm
RICHARD STRAUSS: Salome
Music Director Yannick Nézet-Séguin conducts his first Met performances of Strauss’s white-hot one-act tragedy, which receives its first new production at the company in 20 years. Claus Guth, one of Europe’s leading opera directors, gives the biblical story—already filtered through the beautiful and strange imagination of Oscar Wilde’s play—a psychologically perceptive, Victorian-era setting rich in symbolism and subtle shades of darkness and light. Headlining the new staging is soprano Elza van den Heever as the abused and unhinged antiheroine, who demands the head of Jochanaan, sung by celebrated baritone Peter Mattei. Tenor Gerhard Siegel is Salome’s lecherous stepfather, King Herod, with mezzo-soprano Michelle DeYoung as his wife, Herodias, and tenor Piotr Buszewski as Narraboth. This live cinema transmission is part of the Met’s award-winning Live in HD series, bringing opera to movie theaters across the globe. LIVE PERFORMANCE.
Saturday, May 31, 2025, 1:00 pm
GIOACHINO ROSSINI: Il Barbiere di Siviglia
Rossini's effervescent comedy retakes the stage in Bartlett Sher's madcap production. Mezzo-soprano Aigul Akhmetshina headlines a winning ensemble as the feisty heroine, Rosina, alongside high-flying tenor Jack Swanson, in his Met debut, as her secret beloved, Count Almaviva. Baritone Andrey Zhilikhovsky stars as Figaro, the titular barber of Seville, with bass-baritone Peter Kálmán as Dr. Bartolo and bass Alexander Vinogradov as Don Basilio rounding out the main cast. Giacomo Sagripanti conducts. This live cinema transmission is part of the Met's award-winning Live in HD series, bringing opera to movie theaters across the globe. LIVE PERFORMANCE.

Sunday, May 18, 2025, 3:00 pm
YRSO: Music of the Animal Kingdom
The York River Symphony Orchestra, conductor, Eric Reiff; conductor, Clint Correll. As we mark YRSO's 40th anniversary, join the YRSO for a journey through the Animal Kingdom in Music. Your journey begins with the playful and charming Anderson's The Waltzing Cat. Next, head down the road to the rugged landscapes of Colorado with Anderson's Horse and Buggy, before encountering the wild beauty of Barry's Dances with Wolves Suite, evoking the majestic spirit of the American West. Continue with the sweet melodies of The Song of the Nightingale in the Lilac Bush by Krome. Then immerse yourself in the breathtaking majesty and enchanting power of Stravinsky's Firebird, featuring the fiery Danse Inferno and the serene beauty of the Berceuse & Finale. Tickets are available at the door for $15 for adults and $12 for Seniors, Students and Military. Advance tickets are discounted by $2 per ticket at https://www.yrso.org/tickets.html Williamsburg Presbyterian Church, 215 Richmond Road, Williamsburg, VA 23185

Sunday, May 18, 2025, 4:00 pm
Soundscapes: Community Ensembles Season Finale Concert
Kicking off the afternoon, the Peninsula Youth Jazz Band will set the stage with a vibrant mix of jazz classics, from the smooth swing of C Jam Blues and Satin Doll to the sultry My Funny Valentine, the groove of Blue Bossa and Watermelon Man, and the playful energy of The Chicken and Blue Monk. Victor Goines’ Second Line adds a spirited New Orleans flair, paving the way for an unforgettable concert exploring the many facets of “going home.” The Peninsula Youth Orchestra takes the stage for the second half, with music from the longing in Dvorák’s Largo and the passion of Tchaikovsky’s Romeo and Juliet Overture to the renewal of Lili Boulanger’s D’un matin de printemps and the childhood comfort of Mancini’s Baby Elephant Walk, the program captures home in all its forms. The journey continues with the powerful themes of Jesus Christ Superstar and the emotional odyssey of Bohemian Rhapsody, creating an experience that brings you home—emotionally, spiritually, and musically. https://www.soundscapes.org/ Register: https://tickets.fergusoncenter.org/4404 Ferguson Center for the Arts, 1 Avenue of the Arts, Newport News, VA 23606

Tuesday, May 20, 2025, 7:30 pm
VAF: The Wood Brothers
Hailed by NPR as “masters of soulful folk,” The Wood Brothers have cemented a reputation, among fans and critics alike, as freethinking songwriters and road warriors. Their latest studio album, Heart is The Hero, has won rave reviews for "songs that reflect the fears, hopes, and joys of everyday people. Their poetry is sonic as well as lyrical and will speak to you in ways you won’t anticipate” (Rock & Blues Muse). But as Rolling Stone attests, “there is still nothing like seeing The Wood Brothers on a stage.” Hear their latest work alongside their classics in this eagerly anticipated Festival return! by phone at 757-282-2822 or by visiting the Virginia Arts Festival box office located at 440 Bank Street in Norfolk between 10 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday-Friday. Tickets: https://secure.vafest.org/2727 Perry Pavilion, 451 Bank St, Norfolk, VA 23510

Wednesday, May 21, 2025, 7:30 pm
Thursday, May 22, 2025, 7:30 pm
VAF: Zemlinsky Quartet Olga Kern, piano
Virginia Arts Festival. Playing with “sparkling, nimble…finely crafted elegance” (The Strad), this prize-winning ensemble has won top prizes in international competitions and released a library of critically acclaimed recordings. In their Virginia Arts Festival debut, Van Cliburn Gold Medal-awarded pianist Olga Kern joins the ensemble for an evening of chamber classics, including Dvorák's fiery Piano Quintet No. 2. Tickets: https://www.vafest.org or visit 440 Bank Street, Norfolk, VA 23510. Box Office: 757-282-2822. May 21: William & Mary Arts Center, Concert Hall, 551 Jamestown Road, Williamsburg. May 22: Robin Hixon Theater, Clay and Jay Barr Education Center, 440 Bank Street, Norfolk

Friday, May 23, 2025, 12:00 pm
C&SL: Midday Chamber Music Concert
A 30-minute recital featuring violinist Elizabeth Vonderheide, cellist Jeff Phelps, and harpsichordist Kevin Kwan. Free-will offering.  www.christandstlukes.org/smss.  Christ & St. Luke's Episcopal Church, 560 W. Olney Rd, Norfolk.

Friday, May 23, 2025, 7:30 pm
Sunday, May 25, 2025, 2:30 pm
Tuesday, May 27, 2025, 7:30 pm
OIW: Puccini's Madama Butterfly
Opera in Williamsburg presents a live, fully stged opera with world-class singers in the original Italian with English supertitles. Tickets: Reserved seats $65; Discounted seats (seniors, first responders, military, teachers, musicians, librarians, college facult and staff) $60; Students $15, weekdays $10. https://operainwilliamsburgvirginia.thundertix.com/events/236648 Kimball Theatre, 428. W. Duke of Gloucester Street, Williamsburg, Virginia

VAF: Coffee Concerts
Virginia Arts Festival’s Connie and Marc Jacobson Director of Chamber Music, the Van Cliburn Gold Medal-awarded pianist Olga Kern, has curated a season of chamber concerts that offer enticing new ways to savor Beethoven classics, including his chamber works but also transcriptions for chamber ensemble of symphonies and more. Kern will join acclaimed chamber artists including violinist Lana Trotovšek, cellist Nina Kotova and pianist János Balázs in both evening performances and morning Coffee Concerts. This is chamber music as it was meant to be heard: the communion of gifted artists in an intimate, beautiful setting, among music lovers and friends. After the performance, patrons can mingle with the performers, a lovely postscript to a perfect concert experience. Adult Tickets: $30; Senior/Military: $27; Student/Child: $22.50 at https://www.vafest.org/tickets-and-events/ or visit 440 Bank Street, Norfolk, VA 23510. Box Office: 757-282-2822.
Friday, May 23, 2025, 10:30 am
Coffee Concert I: Zemlinsky Quartet; Olga Kern, piano
So much of the great string quartet repertoire has come from Czech composers; there has come to be a deep appreciation among chamber music fans for what is known as “the Czech tradition.” The Zemlinksy Quartet has become a much-lauded example of that tradition, winning top prizes in international competitions and releasing a library of critically acclaimed recordings. In their Virginia Arts Festival debut, Van Cliburn Gold Medal-awarded pianist Olga Kern joins the ensemble for an evening of chamber classics, including Dvorák's fiery Piano Quintet No. 2. Miller Studio Theatre in Sandler Center for the Performing Arts, Virginia Beach.
Wednesday, June 4, 2025, 10:30 am
Coffee Concert II: Lana Trotovšek. violin; Nina Kotova, cello;
János Balázs, piano; Olga Kern, piano
A dream team of expressive, virtuosic artists! "Electric, vibrant" (Musical Opinion) violinist Lana Trotovšek, "sensitive, elegant" (Gramophone) cellist Nina Kotova, and award-winning pianist János Balázs join Olga Kern in an exploration of Beethoven classics. Miller Studio Theatre in Sandler Center for the Performing Arts, Virginia Beach
Thursday, June 5, 2025, 10:30 am
Coffee Concert III: Lana Trotovšek. violin; Nina Kotova, cello; Olga Kern, piano
This is chamber music as it was meant to be heard: the communion of gifted artists in an intimate, beautiful setting, among music lovers and friends. After the performance, patrons can mingle with the performers, a lovely postscript to a perfect concert experience. William & Mary Music Arts Center, Concert Hall, 551 Jamestown Road, Williamsburg
Thursday, June 12, 2025,10:30 am
Coffee Concert IV: Virginia Arts Festival Chamber Players
Brendon Elliott, violin; Elizabeth Vonderheide, violin; Beverly Baker, viola; Sterling Elliott, cello. St. John’s Episcopal Church, 424 Washington Street, Portsmouth 23704
Friday, June 13, 2025, 10:30 am
Coffee Concert V: Virginia Arts Festival Chamber Players
Gifted young stars and longtime Virginia Symphony Orchestra members join Olga Kern for unforgettable performances of classical favorites including Schubert's "Trout" Quintet and others. Olga Kern, piano; Brendon Elliott, violin; Beverly Kane, viola; Sterling Elliott, cello; Will McPeters, bass; Deborah Cross, flute; Jacob Wilder, horn; Elizabeth Vonderheide, violin. Towne University, 6009 Harbour View Blvd., Suffolk 23435

Saturday, May 24, 2025, 7:30 pm
VAF: Rhythm Project Showcase
Prepare to be blown away by these elementary to high school-age musicians! Virginia Arts Festival’s Rhythm Project is a world percussion ensemble that serves young people throughout Hampton Roads, teaching them discipline, responsibility, and creativity as they learn to perform together on steel pans. Over the program’s 27-year existence, Rhythm Project performers have opened for Gladys Knight, shared the stage with international steel pan stars, and performed at the Kennedy Center as well as the Royal Nova Scotia and Virginia International Tattoos. Bring the family and enjoy music that makes you want to move. by phone at 757-282-2822 or by visiting the Virginia Arts Festival box office located at 440 Bank Street in Norfolk between 10 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday-Friday. Tickets: Adult: $15; Senior/Military $13.50; Student/Child $10.
https://secure.vafest.org/2681?z=0. Perry Pavilion, 451 Bank St, Norfolk, VA 23510

Sunday, May 25, 2025, 5:00 pm
Choral Evensong
Featuring Galillee's adult and children's choirs and newly finished Quimby Chancel organ. Galillee Church, 3928 Pacific Ave, Virginia Beach, VA 23451

Thursday, May 29, 2025, 7:00 pm
C&SL: Ascension Day Hymn Festival
Christ & St. Luke's. Three Choirs join forces to celebrate the feast of the Ascension, with guest conductor Dr. John Cummins, Organist & Choirmaster at St. Paul's Episcopal Church, Winston-Salem, NC. Free-will offering.  www.christandstlukes.org/smss. This service will take place at St. Andrew’s Episcopal Church in West Ghent, 1004 Graydon Ave, Norfolk

Thursday, Mary 29, 2025, 7:00 pm
SML: Thomas Pandolfi
St Mark Lutheran Church and Sine Nomine are delighted to partner with the Senior Center York to present American pianist Thomas Pandolfi, an exciting virtuoso who, with each passing season, is becoming more and more sought after by audiences worldwide, and showered with superlatives by critics for his passionate artistry and amazing technique. His performances of Tchaikovsky, Rachmaninov, Chopin, Liszt and Gershwin have captured the hearts of listeners across the globe, and made him a popular and much beloved concerto soloist. Thomas' international concerts have carried him across the globe to China and Europe; he enjoyed a successful summer of masterclasses and concerts in China, and will return there again later this season. An enthusiastic champion of new music, Thomas’ most recent recording was recently released on Seafront Records featuring Polo Piatti’s stunning Bohemian Concerto with Maestro John Andrews and The National Symphony Orchestra of London. The program is free and open to the public. Donations are appreciated. Call 757-898-4395 for additional information. St Mark Lutheran Church, 118 Old York-Hampton Hwy Yorktown, VA

Friday, May 30, 2025, 7:30 pm
PCC: Thomas Pandolfi ~ American Pianist
Portsmouth Community Concerts. Thomas Pandolfi is one of the leading pianists of our time and hailed a “phenomenon.” He began his career early on while at The Juilliard School (BM & MM) where the young prodigy caught the influential ear of Vladimir Horowitz (who would become his mentor) and legendary composer, Morton Gould. Since then he has been an audience favorite, selling out some of the world’s most prestigious stages. “His virtuosity and strength might have had some believing that Liszt, himself, had taken over the keyboard” said the Ashville Citizen-Times. Single Adult Tickets: $25. Phone 757-686-5447 or visit https://www.portsmouthcommunityconcerts.com/tickets-and-donations I. C. Norcom High School Auditorium, 1801 London Boulevard, Portsmouth, VA 23704

Friday, May 30, 2025, 7:30 pm
Saturday, May, 31, 2025, 2:00 pm & 7:30 pm
VAF: Royal Birmingham Ballet Black Sabbath — The Ballet
VAF with the Virginia Symphony Orchestra. The raw energy of rock … the strength and grace of ballet! Virginia Arts Festival presents the U.S. premiere of a spectacularly entertaining new work! The internationally acclaimed ballet company salutes some of Birmingham’s most famous exports — Ozzy Osbourne and Black Sabbath — in this vibrant piece. With eight classic Black Sabbath hits arranged for orchestra and rock band, and a live guitarist onstage with the dancers, a pulsing light show frames the action. Experience rock — and ballet — as you never have before! Age guidance 10+ Contains archival voiceover that includes bleeped out swearing and conversation around the taking and using of drugs. Tickets: https://www.vafest.org or visit 440 Bank Street, Norfolk, VA 23510. Box Office: 757-282-2822. Chrysler Hall, 215 St Pauls Blvd, Norfolk, VA 23510