Natchitoches - Northwestern Symphony Society
Our 61st Season!
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American Mosaic
Like a mosaic, America is shaped by many voices, cultures, and traditions. Join the Natchitoches-Northwestern Symphony Orchestra as we celebrate our nation’s rich musical heritage—from patriotic anthems and folk traditions to contemporary masterworks—honoring the enduring spirit that unites us all.
Opening Night of the 2026-2027 Symphony Season!
Tuesday, September 22, 7:30 pm • Magale Recital Hall
A Celebration of 250 Years of the United States of America
Our season opens with a patriotic tribute celebrating the ideals, courage, and history that shaped our nation. Featuring Richard Rose’s “Celebration Overture,” NSU alumna Nettie Chenevert’s “Dear Enemy Overture,” and beloved favorites including a Salute to the Armed Forces, “Battle Hymn of the Republic,” and “God Bless America” with the Cane River Singers.
2026- 2027 Concert dates and venues at a glance:
Tuesday, September 22, 7:30 pm • Magale Recital Hall
A Celebration of 250 Years of the United States of America
Our season opens with a patriotic tribute celebrating the ideals, courage, and history that shaped our nation. Featuring Richard Rose’s “Celebration Overture,” NSU alumna Nettie Chenevert’s “Dear Enemy Overture,” and beloved favorites including a Salute to the Armed Forces, “Battle Hymn of the Republic,” and “God Bless America” with the Cane River Singers.
Tuesday, November 3, 7:30 pm • Magale Recital Hall - American Reflections
Discover the many voices of America through works of imagination and innovation. NSU Professor Dr. Oliver Molina performs Kevin Puts’ “Concerto for Marimba,” alongside music by Aaron Copland, George Gershwin, Charles Ives, and Beethoven’s stirring “Egmont Overture.”
December 2,3,4 • NSU Christmas Gala - A.A. Fredericks Auditorium
Celebrate the season with the NSU School of Creative and Performing Arts’ beloved Christmas Gala. Now in its 38th year, this spectacular holiday tradition combines music, dance, theatre, and seasonal magic for audiences of all ages. Reserve your seats early.
Thursday, February 4, 7:30 pm • Magale Recital Hall
Requiem, Optimism, and A Gift to Be Simple
Guest conductor Mario Torres returns for an evening of beauty and hope featuring Beethoven’s Symphony No. 2; David Popper’s “Requiem for Three Cellos” with NSU’s Professor of cello and distinguished alumni Milovan Paz and Jorge Rodriguez; along with Aaron Copland’s original version of “Appalachian Spring.”
Saturday, February 6, 5:30 pm • Magale Recital Hall
String Day
Celebrate the next generation of musicians as regional middle and high school string students rehearse alongside members of the orchestra before presenting a special public performance at 5:30 pm.
Tuesday, March 23, 7:30 pm • Magale Recital Hall - Concerto Winners
One of the season’s most popular concerts showcases Northwestern State University’s outstanding student soloists performing with the orchestra. The program features music by American composers Florence Price and Brian Balmages.
Tuesday, April 27, 7:30 pm • Magale Recital Hall
Angels of Light, with Courage, and Hope
The season concludes with Dvořák’s beloved Symphony No. 9, “From the New
World,” alongside Frank Ticheli’s “Angels in the Architecture,” Aaron Copland’s “Fanfare for the Common Man,” and Joan Tower’s “Fanfare for the Uncommon Woman”—a stirring finale celebrating hope, courage, and the American spirit.
Natchitoches-Northwestern Symphony Society, Inc. is a 501(c)(3) organization, with an IRS ruling year of 1979. Our mission is to provide NSU Symphony Orchestra students scholarships to supplement tuition and books. All donations are tax-deductible.