Western Piedmont Symphony

Masterworks: American Roots
2027-02-13 19:30 - 21:30 (America/New_York) | P.E. Monroe Auditorium, LRU, 775 6th St NE, Hickory, NC, 28601, United States
Celebrate the rich musical traditions of America in a program that spans the concert hall and the front porch. Featuring Grammy Award-winning fiddler Michael Cleveland and his band Flamekeeper, American Roots honors the deep musical heritage of Appalachia and the people who have shaped the sound of our region. Blending the infectious energy of bluegrass and Americana with the power of a symphony orchestra, this unforgettable concert celebrates the artistry, culture, and spirit of North Carolina and our nation.
PROGRAM

STILL • Festive Overture
IVES • Variations on “America”
O’CONNOR • Queen Anne’s Revenge
COPLAND • Appalachian Spring
VARIOUS SELECTIONS • Michael Cleveland and Flamekeeper

FEATURED ARTISTS
Widely regarded as one of the greatest bluegrass fiddlers of his generation, Michael Cleveland has captivated audiences with his extraordinary musicianship, improvisational brilliance, and deep connection to the traditions of bluegrass music. A native of southern Indiana, Cleveland began playing fiddle at age four and quickly developed a reputation as a prodigious talent, performing with bluegrass legends from a young age and launching a professional career shortly after graduating high school.
In 2006, Cleveland formed his band Flamekeeper, a seven-time recipient of the International Bluegrass Music Association’s Instrumental Group of the Year award. A 12-time IBMA Fiddler of the Year, Grammy Award winner, National Fiddler Hall of Fame inductee, and recipient of the National Endowment for the Arts Heritage Fellowship, Cleveland continues to inspire audiences worldwide while remaining deeply rooted in the bluegrass traditions that shaped his remarkable career.

WPS Youth Orchestras Fall Concert
2026-12-13 15:00 - 17:00 | Drendel Auditorium, SALT Block, 243 3rd Ave NE, Hickory, NC, 28601, United States
Hear our young artists in performance! Both Debut Strings and the Youth Symphony will perform works from the classical repertoire.
The Western Piedmont Symphony Youth Orchestras (Debut Strings and the Youth Symphony) are an integral member of the Western Piedmont Symphony family and are a rigorous part of the cultural fabric of the community. The WPSYO program cultivates artistic growth of its members through enriching orchestral experiences.
Seating is reserved/assigned. Highly recommend purchasing tickets before the concert. This show is always sold out.
Vouchers not accepted on day-of-show door sales.
Note: programs, artists, venues, prices, and dates subject to change.

Foothills Pops: Holiday Spectacular
2026-12-04 19:30 - 21:30 | J.E. Broyhill Civic Center, 1913 Hickory Blvd, Lenoir, NC, 28645, United States
Celebrate the season with HOLIDAY SPECTACULAR, Western Piedmont Symphony’s beloved annual holiday tradition. Featuring festive favorites, heartwarming classics, and joyful musical surprises, this Foothills Pops concert captures the spirit of the season for audiences of all ages. Guitarist Matt Sickels joins the orchestra for an electrifying tribute to the music of Trans-Siberian Orchestra. Additional guest artists to be announced.

Masterworks: Handel's Messiah
2026-11-19 19:30 - 21:30 | St. Luke’s United Methodist Church, 52 16th Ave NW, Hickory, 28601, United States
Experience Handel’s Messiah in the intimate setting of St. Luke’s United Methodist Church. This historically informed Baroque performance has been meticulously curated by Maestro Matthew Troy to bring renewed clarity and beauty to a cherished holiday tradition. Featuring the Masterworks debut of The Symphony Singers, a select ensemble of professional vocal artists from our region, performing alongside a Baroque chamber orchestra. Audiences will be surrounded by soaring voices and the warm acoustics of the sanctuary as they experience one of classical music’s most inspiring, enduring, and recognized masterpieces.
PROGRAM

HANDEL • Messiah

Masterworks: Mystic Horizons
2026-10-24 19:30 - 21:30 | P.E. Monroe Auditorium, LRU, 775 6th St NE, Hickory, NC, 28601, United States
Experience a thrilling opening to Western Piedmont Symphony’s 62nd season as Maestro Matthew Troy and the orchestra are joined by internationally acclaimed tabla virtuoso Sandeep Das. Rich with stories, vivid imagery, moments of sublime beauty, and the driving rhythms of North Indian classical music, Mystic Horizons blurs the lines between genre, time, and place. From the meditative beauty of Max Richter to the dazzling tales of Scheherazade, this captivating program invites audiences on a journey of wonder, adventure, and breathtaking musical color.
PROGRAM

RICHTER • On the Nature of Daylight
RANJBARAN • Seven Passages
WIJERATNE • Concerto for Tabla and Orchestra
RIMSKY-KORSAKOV • Scheherazade

FEATURED ARTIST
Sandeep Das is one of the world’s leading tabla virtuosos and a disciple of the legendary Pandit Kishan Maharaj of the Banaras Gharana. A Grammy Award-winning musician and Guggenheim Fellow, he made his debut at age 17 alongside Ravi Shankar and has since built an international career spanning more than three decades.
Das has performed with Yo-Yo Ma and the Silk Road Ensemble, Paquito D’Rivera, Bobby McFerrin, and major orchestras including the New York Philharmonic, Boston Symphony, and Chicago Symphony. Renowned for blending ancient traditions with contemporary innovation, his performances and original compositions have captivated audiences in more than 50 countries around the world.

SIDE/SHOW
2026-09-17 17:00 - 20:00 | Downtown Hickory, 246 Union Square NW, Hickory, NC, 28601, United States
Live music is coming to downtown Hickory!

Join Western Piedmont Symphony chamber ensembles and friends for SIDE/SHOW on Thursday, Sept. 17. This FREE event is part of the Downtown Hickory Art Crawl, sponsored by the City of Hickory.

Foothills Pops: Symphony of the Shire
2026-09-12 19:30 - 21:30 | J.E. Broyhill Civic Center, 1913 Hickory Blvd, Lenoir, NC, 28645, United States
Embark on an epic musical adventure with SYMPHONY OF THE SHIRE, featuring beloved music from The Lord of the Rings, Harry Potter, Game of Thrones, Hook, World of Warcraft, Chronicles of Narnia, and more. Western Piedmont Symphony brings these iconic worlds to life in a fantasy-filled evening of excitement, nostalgia, and wonder. Costumes, cosplay, and Renaissance-inspired attire are encouraged.

WPS Youth Orchestras Fall Auditions (Debut Strings and Youth Symphony) Sep. 2 & 3
2026-09-03 16:30 - 19:30, 2026-09-02 16:30 - 19:30 | Western Piedmont Symphony, 243 Third Ave NE, Hickory, NC, 28601, United States
Announcing auditions for the 26-27 Season for our two Youth Orchestras: Debut Strings and the Youth Symphony.
Generous Scholarships Available!
September 2 & 3, 2026 | 4:30-7:30 p.m.
Audition information, how to sign up for a time, and audition requirements and repertoire can be found here: wpsymphony.org/youthorchestras
Audition times will be sent to the email addresses you sign up with in the weeks before the audition.
Auditions will be held in the Community Rehearsal Room of the SALT Block (243 3rd Ave NE, Hickory, NC, 28601). You will enter and check-in at the Western Piedmont Symphony office just down the hall.
Questions and futher information: (828) 324-8603 | ops@wpsymphony.org

Behind the Music: Screening of THE NEVERENDING STORY with Footcandle Film Society
2026-09-02 19:00 - 21:00 | Carolina Theater, 222 1st Ave NW, Hickory, NC, 28601, United States
Go behind the music of a beloved fantasy classic!
Ahead of our 62nd Season opening concert, FOOTHILLS POPS: SYMPHONY OF THE SHIRE, join Western Piedmont Symphony and Footcandle Film Society for a special screening of THE NEVERENDING STORY at the Carolina Theater.
📅 Wednesday, September 2
⏰ 7:00 p.m.
After the film, stick around for a conversation with Footcandle founder Alan Jackson about the movie and WPS Music Director Matthew Troy about the music. You’ll even hear selections from THE NEVERENDING STORY performed live by Western Piedmont Symphony at SYMPHONY OF THE SHIRE on September 12!
Admission is just $5 at the door and FREE for Footcandle Film Society members.
See the film. Discover the music. Then hear it come to life with the orchestra! 🎶

Event Partner

American Pops Summer Concerts at FORUM at Lees-McRae College 7:30 p.m.
2026-07-06 19:30 - 21:00 | Hayes Auditorium, 191 Main St. W, Banner Elk, NC, 28604, United States
Western Piedmont Symphony returns to the High Country for an evening of classic American music from films and songs to patriotic pops at FORUM at Lees-McRae College.

Tickets info for 7:30 p.m. show:
www.etix.com

American Pops Summer Concerts at FORUM at Lees-McRae College 5:00 p.m.
2026-07-06 17:00 - 18:30 | Hayes Auditorium, 191 Main St. W, Banner Elk, NC, 28604, United States
Western Piedmont Symphony returns to the High Country for an evening of classic American music from films and songs to patriotic pops at FORUM at Lees-McRae College.

Tickets info for 5:00 p.m. show:
www.etix.com

2026-2027 Season Tickets On Sale June 15
2026-06-15 - 2026-08-15
2026-2027 Season Tickets and New Subscriptions on sale starting June 15, 2026!
Be in the room where the music happens this season.
Season Highlights
Saturday, September 12, 2026 – Foothills Pops: Symphony of the Shire
An evening of music from fantasy, films, and games. Featuring the memorable music from Lord of the Rings, Game of Thrones, Harry Potter, Robin Hood, Final Fantasy, Legend of Zelda, and more.
7:30 p.m., J.E. Broyhill Civic Center, Lenoir

Thursday, September 17, 2026 – SIDE/SHOW
An evening of FREE, unique performances with WPS Musicians and Friends spanning many musical genres including jazz, classical, and Americana. Presented in partnership with the City of Hickory and the Art Crawl and Hickory Downtown Development Association.
5:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m., various locations, Downtown Hickory

Saturday, October 24, 2026 – Masterworks: Mystic Horizons
Featured artist Sandeep Das, tabla
The season-opening Masterworks features the dynamic Concerto for Tabla and Orchestra by Dinuk Wijeratne featuring Grammy Award-winning artist Sandeep Das, plus works by living composers Max Richter (On the Nature of Daylight) and Behzad Ranjbaran (Seven Passages from his Persian Trilogy). The mesmerizing fairytale from The Arabian Nights, Scheherazade by Rimsky-Korsakov closes the evening.
7:30 p.m., P.E. Monroe Auditorium, Lenoir-Rhyne University, Hickory

*Thursday, November 19, 2026– Masterworks: Handel’s Messiah
Featured artists: The Symphony Singers
A musical rite of the holiday season, Handel’s Messiah is a virtuosic and emotional oratorio chronicling the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ conveyed in music. Presented in true Baroque style by an intimate ensemble of 50 musicians and professional singers.
*Special date and location.
7:30 p.m., St. Luke’s United Methodist Church, Hickory

Friday, December 4, 2026 – Foothills Pops: Holiday Spectacular
Everyone’s favorite seasonal concert is back for an evening of holiday and winter music classics. The region’s best way to start December and get some holiday cheer! Matt Sickels, guitar, will electrify with Trans-Siberian Orchestra Christmas songs. Additional guest artists to be announced.
7:30 p.m., J.E. Broyhill Civic Center, Lenoir

Sunday, December 13, 2026 – WPS Youth Orchestras: Fall Concert
Hear our young musicians perform classical works. Both Debut Strings and the Youth Symphony are important parts of the Western Piedmont Symphony family and the local community, providing members with valuable orchestral experience and musical growth. Seating is reserved and assigned. Tickets should be purchased in advance, as this concert often sells out.
3:00 p.m., Drendel Auditorium, Hickory

Saturday, February 13, 2027 – Masterworks: American Roots
Featured Artists: Michael Cleveland and Flamekeeper
Experience the sounds of regional traditions and melodies in works by American composers Aaron Copland (Appalachian Spring), William Grant Still (Festive Overture), Charles Ives (Variations on “America’), and Mark O’Connor (Queen Anne’s Revenge). GRAMMY Award-winning fiddler Michael Cleveland and his band Flamekeeper will join the Symphony to perform a mix of Bluegrass and Americana songs for the second half of the concert.
7:30 p.m., P.E. Monroe Auditorium, Lenoir-Rhyne University, Hickory

Saturday, March 13, 2027 – Masterworks: Splendid Tchaikovsky
Featured artist to be announced
Embrace the romance of Russia in the Suite from Dr. Zhivago by OSCAR-winning composer Maurice Jarre, and a Tchaikovsky-centric program including the passionate tone poem Marche Slav, the bold and triumphant Piano Concerto No. 1, and the epic, theatrical fireworks and cannons of the iconic 1812 Overture.
7:30 p.m., P.E. Monroe Auditorium, Lenoir-Rhyne University, Hickory

Saturday, April 17, 2027 – Foothills Pops: The Texas Tenors
The Texas Tenors and the Western Piedmont Symphony perform a unique blend of country, classical, Broadway, and current pop music with breathtaking vocals, humor, and a touch of cowboy charm.
7:30 p.m., J.E. Broyhill Civic Center, Lenoir

Sunday, May 16, 2027 – WPS Youth Orchestras: Spring Concert
Hear our young musicians perform classical works. Both Debut Strings and the Youth Symphony are important parts of the Western Piedmont Symphony family and the local community, providing members with valuable orchestral experience and musical growth. Seating is reserved and assigned. Tickets should be purchased in advance, as this concert often sells out.
3:00 p.m., Drendel Auditorium, Hickory

Saturday, May 22, 2027 – Masterworks: Romantic Masters
Featured Artist: Andrew Sords, violin
Western Piedmont Symphony welcomes violinist Andrew Sords for a program of rich Romantic works. The evening includes Ethel Smyth’s Boatswain’s Mate Overture, Sibelius’s lush and lyrical Violin Concerto in D Minor, and Dvořák’s Symphony No. 7, a deeply expressive and dramatic work that reflects the composer’s love for his homeland.
7:30 p.m., P.E. Monroe Auditorium, Lenoir-Rhyne University, Hickory

And more … free masterclasses, education concerts, and community engagement events and conversations in Hickory and throughout the greater Catawba Valley. For more information about the Western Piedmont Symphony 2026-2027 season of concerts and events, visit wpsymphony.org.

For more information about the Western Piedmont Symphony 2026-2027 season of concerts and events, visit wpsymphony.org.

Please note: all programs, artists, venues, prices, and dates are subject to change.
SERIES SUBSCRIPTION AND TICKET INFORMATION
Season Subscriber Renewals happening now. New Series Subscription packages and Single Tickets on sale June 15, 2026 Series subscriptions offer up to 15% off the single ticket price and a reservation on your favorite seats. Flex-6 and Flex-10 packages also available.
Single ticket pricing:
Masterworks: $20-$58; students with valid ID $10 (regular C seat)
Foothills Pops: $33-$58; students with valid ID $10 (regular C seat)
WPS Youth Orchestras: $10-$12
SIDE/SHOW and community engagement events are FREE.
Student tickets are $10 with a valid ID. Students can purchase $10 tickets in sections A and B only when accompanied by an adult who also buys a ticket in the same section. Students may also buy individual $10 tickets in section C without requiring an additional adult ticket purchase.
The WPS Box Office is located on the SALT Block at 243 Third Avenue NE, Hickory, NC 28601. Box Office hours are 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., Wed. – Fri. For more information about Western Piedmont Symphony, visit wpsymphony.org, call 828-324-8603, or email info@wpymphony.org.
CONCERT VENUES
MASTERWORKS: P.E. Monroe Auditorium at Lenoir-Rhyne University, 775 6th St. NE, Hickory, NC 28601
SPECIAL LOCATION FOR MASTERWORKS: HANDEL’S MESSIAH: St. Luke’s United Methodist Church, 52 16th Ave. NW, Hickory, NC 28601
FOOTHILLS POPS: J.E. Broyhill Civic Center, 1913 Hickory Blvd., Lenoir, NC 28645
WPS YOUTH ORCHESTRAS: Drendel Auditorium at the SALT Block, 243 3rd Ave. NE, Hickory, NC 28601

WPS Auditions: Second Bassoon
2026-06-01 | Western Piedmont Symphony, 243 Third Ave NE, Hickory, NC, 28601, United States
Announcing the following vacancies for the 2026-2027 season:
Second Bassoon
Audition repertoire and information available at: wpsymphony.org/employment/auditions-second-bassoon/
Audition Date: Monday, June 1, 2026
Application Deadline: Friday, May 22, 2026
Send a one-page performance résumé (.PDF) to WPS Operations & Education Manager: ops@wpsymphony.org.
Auditions will be held at: Western Piedmont Symphony Offices at the SALT Block
243 Third Ave. NE., Suite 1-N, Hickory, NC 28601

WPS Auditions: Third Trumpet
2026-05-24 | Western Piedmont Symphony, 243 Third Ave NE, Hickory, NC, 28601, United States
Announcing the following vacancies for the 2026-2027 season:
Third Trumpet
Audition repertoire and information available at: wpsymphony.org/employment/auditions-third-trumpet/
Audition Date: Sunday, May 24, 2026
Application Deadline: Friday, May 15, 2026
Send a one-page performance résumé (.PDF) to WPS Personnel Manager: pm@wpsymphony.org
Auditions will be held at: Western Piedmont Symphony Offices at the SALT Block
243 Third Ave. NE., Suite 1-N, Hickory, NC 28601

WPS Auditions: Principal Tuba
2026-05-24 | Western Piedmont Symphony, 243 Third Ave NE, Hickory, NC, 28601, United States
Announcing the following vacancies for the 2026-2027 season:
Principal Tuba
Audition repertoire and information available at: wpsymphony.org/employment/auditions-principal-tuba/
Audition Date: Sunday, May 24, 2026
Application Deadline: Friday, May 15, 2026
Send a one-page performance résumé (.PDF) to WPS Personnel Manager: pm@wpsymphony.org
Auditions will be held at: Western Piedmont Symphony Offices at the SALT Block
243 Third Ave. NE., Suite 1-N, Hickory, NC 28601

Masterworks: Musical Wanderlust
2026-05-16 19:30 - 21:30 | P.E. Monroe Auditorium, LRU, 775 6th St NE, Hickory, NC, 28601, United States
PROGRAM

GOLDMARK • Overture to Sakuntala
BIZET • L’Arlesienne Suite No. 1
STEINER • Casablanca Suite
SAINT-SAËNS • Piano Concerto No. 5, “Egyptian”

FEATURED ARTIST
Sheng Cai is an acclaimed Canadian pianist praised for his expressive depth and virtuosity. He has appeared as a soloist with major orchestras worldwide, including the Toronto Symphony, Shanghai Symphony, and Philharmonie Südwestfalen. A passionate interpreter of both standard and rare repertoire, his performances and recordings have earned international critical acclaim for their color, clarity, and power.
CONCERT SPONSORS:

Chip & Lynn Young

WPS Youth Orchestras Spring Concert
2026-04-26 15:00 - 17:00 | Drendel Auditorium, SALT Block, 243 3rd Ave NE, Hickory, NC, 28601, United States
Hear our young artists in performance! Both Debut Strings and the Youth Symphony will perform works from the classical repertoire.
The Western Piedmont Symphony Youth Orchestras (Debut Strings and the Youth Symphony) are an integral member of the Western Piedmont Symphony family and are a rigorous part of the cultural fabric of the community. The WPSYO program cultivates artistic growth of its members through enriching orchestral experiences.
Seating is reserved/assigned. Highly recommend purchasing tickets before the concert. This show is always sold out.
Vouchers not accepted on day-of-show door sales.
Note: programs, artists, venues, prices, and dates subject to change.

CONCERT SPONSORS
Ann Joslyn and Randy Fisher

Behind the Music: Screening of CASABLANCA with Footcandle Film Society
2026-04-23 19:00 - 21:00 | Carolina Theater, 222 1st Ave NW, Hickory, NC, 28601, United States
Go behind the music of Casablanca with Western Piedmont Symphony and the Footcandle Film Society.
Before the film, WPS Music Director Matthew Troy joins Footcandle founder Alan Jackson for a conversation exploring the iconic score by Max Steiner, offering insight into one of cinema’s most beloved soundtracks.
Experience the classic American romantic drama Casablanca on the big screen at the Carolina Theater in downtown Hickory on Thursday, April 23 at 7:00 p.m. This special screening is presented in collaboration between Western Piedmont Symphony and the Footcandle Film Society.
This event also offers a preview of WPS’s upcoming May 16th performance, featuring Steiner’s Casablanca Suite as part of Masterworks: Musical Wanderlust.
Tickets are $5 at the door. Free for current Footcandle Film Society members.

Event Partner

Foothills Pops: From Broadway to Hollywood!
2026-04-18 19:30 - 21:30 | J.E. Broyhill Civic Center, 1913 Hickory Blvd, Lenoir, NC, 28645, United States
Take a musical journey from the bright lights of Broadway to the magic of Hollywood in this unforgettable Foothills Pops concert. The Western Piedmont Symphony brings beloved show tunes and timeless American standards to life, celebrating the music of legendary composers including Gershwin, Sondheim, and Rodgers & Hammerstein.

Featuring the stunning vocals of soprano Haley Sicking (haleysicking.com), this lively program blends the energy of the stage with the glamour of the silver screen. From iconic theatrical hits to classic songs that became Hollywood favorites, From Broadway to Hollywood! promises an evening of music that is nostalgic, uplifting, and full of show-stopping moments.

SERIES SPONSORS:

CONCERT SPONSORS:

Masterworks: Grant Us Peace
2026-02-28 19:30 - 21:30 | P.E. Monroe Auditorium, LRU, 775 6th St NE, Hickory, NC, 28601, United States
In a powerful collaboration with the CVCC Chorus and Ensembles, the Hickory Choral Society, and LRU A Cappella Choir, the Western Piedmont Symphony presents Grant Us Peace—a moving exploration of humanity’s longing for peace in a turbulent world. Featuring acclaimed baritone Michael Adams and soprano Janinah Burnett, this stirring program blends orchestral and choral masterpieces into a unified call for hope, healing, and harmony.
PROGRAM

ADAMS • Christian Zeal and Activity
DEBUSSY • The Martyrdom of St. Sebastian
VAUGHAN-WILLIAMS • Dona nobis pacem (Grant Us Peace)

Concert Sponsors

Love Music: An Evening of Romance & Strings
2026-02-14 17:30 - 18:30 | Drendel Auditorium, SALT Block, 243 3rd Ave NE, Hickory, NC, 28601, United States
Looking for the perfect Valentine’s plan?Treat your sweetie to sweet music.
Enjoy an intimate evening of light classical favorites, jazz standards, and beloved love songs like My Funny Valentine, A Thousand Years, and Marry You — all performed live by the WPS Maestro’s Quartet.

– Special Valentine’s Duo Package available:
$105 Section A (two premium tickets and two sparkling beverages ready when you arrive!)
$95 Section B (two premium tickets and two sparking beverages ready when you arrive!)– Includes sparkling wine + premium seating– Event first, dinner after

Masterworks: Romantic Masters
2026-01-31 19:30 - 21:30 | P.E. Monroe Auditorium, LRU, 775 6th St NE, Hickory, NC, 28601, United States
Due to current conditions and forecasted severe winter weather, Western Piedmont Symphony has made the decision to cancel the Masterworks: Romantic Masters concert scheduled for Saturday, January 31 (7:30 p.m. at PE Monroe Aud., Hickory). The safety of our patrons, musicians, guest artist Andrew Sords, WPS staff, and community production partners is our top concern. We apologize for any inconvenience, are disappointed we cannot perform this concert for you this weekend, and thank you for your understanding.

An evening of classical music new and familiar, featuring Sibelius’s Violin Concerto, a work of supreme virtuosity and eloquent, beautiful musical storytelling.
PROGRAM

SMYTH • Boatswain’s Mate Overture
SIBELIUS • Violin Concerto in D minor, op. 47
DVOŘÁK • Symphony No. 7

Featured Artist
Andrew Sords is an internationally acclaimed soloist known for his virtuosity and expressive performances. He has appeared with over 300 orchestras across four continents, with recent debuts in New Zealand, Puerto Vallarta, and Québec City, as well as profiles on NPR’s Morning Edition and Australia’s ABC Cultural News. Sords is also a passionate advocate for musical outreach and education.

CoMMA presents The Magic of Christmas
2025-12-17 19:30 - 21:30 | CoMMA, 401 S. College St., Morganton, NC, 28655, United States
Everyone’s favorite holiday concert is coming back to CoMMA for an evening of holiday songs and winter music classics! Experience The Magic of Christmas with the Western Piedmont Symphony, the professional orchestra of the western foothills of North Carolina. Led by Music Director Matthew Troy and featuring guests artists Matt Sickles, guitar, and Captain Jim as Drosselmeyer, Master Magician, the Symphony performs classic Christmas songs, seasonal movie music, electrifying holiday hits, and beloved family favorite music of the season.
Pre-show Reception begins at 6pm for season ticket holders//6:30pm for all other guests
Presented by CoMMA Performing Arts Center.

Adults: $23 – $58
Youth (18 and under): $10
*Above prices include $3 per ticket facility fee
*PLUS 6.75% NC Sales tax
*All person must have a ticket, including infants

SOLD OUT! WPS Youth Orchestras Fall Concert
2025-12-14 15:00 - 17:00 | Drendel Auditorium, SALT Block, 243 3rd Ave NE, Hickory, NC, 28601, United States
This show is SOLD OUT!

Hear our young artists in performance! Both Debut Strings and the Youth Symphony will perform works from the classical repertoire.
The Western Piedmont Symphony Youth Orchestras (Debut Strings and the Youth Symphony) are an integral member of the Western Piedmont Symphony family and are a rigorous part of the cultural fabric of the community. The WPSYO program cultivates artistic growth of its members through enriching orchestral experiences.
Seating is reserved/assigned. Highly recommend purchasing tickets before the concert. This show is always sold out.
Vouchers not accepted on day-of-show door sales.
Note: programs, artists, venues, prices, and dates subject to change.

CONCERT SPONSORS
Ann Joslyn and Randy Fisher

Foothills Pops: The Magic of Christmas
2025-12-05 19:30 - 21:30 | J.E. Broyhill Civic Center, 1913 Hickory Blvd, Lenoir, NC, 28645, United States
Celebrate the season with a joyful, family-friendly concert featuring beloved holiday classics and music from festive favorites from A Charlie Brown Christmas, Frozen, Sleigh Ride, Trans Siberian Orchestra, and more! Come experience the region’s best way to start your holiday season!
Featured Artists

Matt Sickles, electric guitar
Captain Jim as Drosselmeyer, Master Magician

SERIES SPONSORS

Note: programs, artists, venues, prices, and dates subject to change.

Masterworks: Italian Inspirations
2025-11-22 19:30 - 21:30 | P.E. Monroe Auditorium, LRU, 775 6th St NE, Hickory, NC, 28601, United States
A musical journey inspired by classical, romantic Italy, featuring works by Bach, Pärt, Sammartini, Haydn, and Mendelssohn. Featured artist Ashley Hall-Tighe, trumpet.

PÄRT • If Bach had Been a Beekeeper
BACH • Air on the G String
SAMMARTINI • Recorder Concerto for Trumpet
HAYDN • Trumpet Concerto
MENDELSSOHN • Symphony No. 4, “Italian”

Featured Artist
Ashley Hall-Tighe is an internationally acclaimed trumpeter known for her warm tone, expressive artistry, and dynamic performances on stages from the Sydney Opera House to Beijing’s NCPA. A former touring member of Canadian Brass, she is a sought-after soloist, chamber musician, and educator.

CONCERT SPONSORS
Sandra Pait Clay and Dr. George Clay, III
Additional program support was made possible by a grant from Arts Culture Catawba through the North Carolina Arts Council, a division of the Department of Natural and Cultural Resources, with funding from the National Endowment for the Arts.

SPONSORS AND PARTNERS

Behind the Music Pre-Concert Conversation - Masterworks: Italian Inspirations
2025-11-22 18:30 - 18:50 | P.E. Monroe Auditorium, LRU, 775 6th St NE, Hickory, NC, 28601, United States
Get Behind the Music on Saturday, November 22. Join Music Director Matthew Troy for a pre-concert conversation about the composer and works featured on Masterworks: Italian Inspirations.

PÄRT • If Bach had Been a Beekeeper
BACH • Air on the G String
SAMMARTINI • Recorder Concerto (for Trumpet) – featuring Ashley Hall-Tighe, trumpet
HAYDN • Trumpet Concerto – featuring Ashley Hall-Tighe, trumpet
MENDELSSOHN • Symphony No. 4, “Italian”

FREE with your ticket to Masterworks: Italian Inspirations
6:30 p.m. – 6:50 p.m.
P.E. Monroe Auditorium

Beyond the Instrument: Finding Joy in Your Creative Life
2025-11-20 16:00 - 17:30 | Keiser Community Room, SALT Block, 231 3rd Ave NE, Hickory, NC, 28601, United States
A FREE community event with Masterworks featured artist Ashley Hall-Tighe (Keiser Community Room, SALT Block)
Join life coach and internationally acclaimed musician Ashley Hall-Tighe Thursday, Nov. 20 (4:00-5:30 p.m.) for an inspiring, interactive workshop exploring creativity, resilience, and joy. Beyond the Instrument offers practical tools for quieting self-doubt, embracing authenticity, and rekindling the spark that fuels all creative lives—open to everyone, not just musicians.
Ashley Hall-Tighe is an internationally acclaimed trumpeter known for her warm tone, expressive artistry, and dynamic performances on stages from the Sydney Opera House to Beijing’s NCPA. A former touring member of Canadian Brass, she is a sought-after soloist, chamber musician, and educator. Learn more about Ashley at www.ashleyhalltighe.com.
Event Registration: CLICK HERE TO REGISTER FOR BEYOND THE INSTRUMENT

SPONSORS
This program was made possible by a grant from Arts Culture Catawba through the North Carolina Arts Council, a division of the Department of Natural and Cultural Resources, with funding from the National Endowment for the Arts.

Masterworks: Elemental Music
2025-10-18 19:30 - 21:30 | P.E. Monroe Auditorium, LRU, 775 6th St NE, Hickory, NC, 28601, United States
Experience an inspiring evening with Maestro Matthew Troy and the Western Piedmont Symphony as they explore the powerful connection between humanity and nature. Elemental Music brings the natural world to life through vivid orchestral works—featuring birdsong, pastoral scenes, and the forces of creation. From haunting to hopeful, this program invites you to reflect on the elements that shape our world and ourselves.

WAXMAN • The Bride of Frankenstein: “The Creation of the Female Monster”
COPLAND • Suite from The Tender Land
BEETHOVEN • Symphony No. 6, “Pastorale”
