The Fayetteville Symphony Orchestra has curated a thrilling season that facilitates their ability to share and connect their music with audiences both inside and outside of the concert hall.
The upcoming season promises to feature a diverse array of musical genres and showcase various sections of the orchestra.
Along with six season concerts, the 2024-2025 lineup boasts an assortment of Community Concerts and additional Symphony on Tap dates.
2024/2025 SEASON CONCERTS
Music of the Knights — Saturday, September 21 at 7:30 p.m. | Seabrook Auditorium at Fayetteville State University
Kicking off their season, the FSO pays homage to the musical prowess of three British legends: Sir Andrew Lloyd Webber, Sir Elton John, and Sir Paul McCartney.
Audiences can indulge in a breathtaking showcase of talent by the Fayetteville Symphony Orchestra and internationally renowned vocalists. Among the memorable melodies to be performed are beloved classics such as "Hey Jude" and "Can You Feel The Love Tonight," among others.
Handel’s Water Music Suite — Saturday, November 23 at 7:30 p.m. | St. John’s Episcopal Church
A delightful evening of classical chamber music awaits as 20 skilled musicians from the Fayetteville Symphony gather to present a concert featuring Handel’s Water Music Suite.
The performance, which promises to be a true treat for the senses, will take place in the serene surroundings of St. John’s Episcopal Church, where the Symphony will delight the audience with a rendition of suites 1-3.
Sounds of Lafayette — Saturday, January 25, 2025 at 7:30 p.m. | First Presbyterian Church
2025 will mark the 200th anniversary of Lafayette's visit to Fayetteville, the sole city bearing his name that he had the opportunity to visit.
To pay homage to this remarkable occasion, the FSO have planned a captivating chamber concert that will showcase music compositions crafted by renowned French composers.
This exclusive event will truly be an authentic chamber music concert, as talented string and woodwind musicians will grace the stage to deliver awe-inspiring performances without a conductor.
Additionally, they have invited the accomplished Maestro Stefan Sanders to share his expert commentary and insights during the concert.
The New World Reimagined — Saturday, February 22, 2025 at 7:30 p.m. | Seabrook Auditorium
Be sure to attend the world premiere of a brand-new composition by Ahmed Al Abaca, specially commissioned by the FSO.
This thrilling piece will showcase the talents of Dr. Ron Ford, renowned for his exceptional saxophone solo during the 2022 John Williams concert, as well as his numerous captivating performances with the FSO Jazz Ensemble.
Additionally, they will be presenting a new work by North Carolina composer Brittany J. Green, generously sponsored by the League of American Orchestras’ Virginia B. Toulmin Foundation Orchestral Commissions Program.
The second half of the program features the timeless classic New World Symphony by Dvorak, a beloved piece inspired by the rhythms and melodies of Black and Native music.
Mallet Madness — Friday & Saturday, March 14 & 15, 2025 at 7:30 p.m. | Arts Council of Fayetteville/Cumberland County
Dr. Daniel McCloud, an Assistant Conductor and percussionist, will be taking the audience on an extraordinary musical journey accompanied by an eight-person percussion ensemble.
Their skilled and imaginative percussion section promises an enthralling concert, making it a not to be missed event of the season. You are cordially invited to attend the performance on either of the two nights at the Arts Council of Fayetteville/Cumberland County.
Beethoven V — Saturday, April 26 at 7:30 p.m. | Seabrook Auditorium at Fayetteville State University
This performance is all about Beethoven’s epic Symphony No. 5. Accompanying this masterful piece is a collection of compositions to be performed by Billy Hunter, principal trumpeter of the Metropolitan Opera.
2024/2025 FAMILY &COMMUNITY CONCERTS
Nosferatu-Saturday, October 12 | 8 p.m. | Dirtbag Ales
Enjoy the black and white gothic 1922 German silent film Nosferatu while the FSO plays live music arranged by Peter B. Kay. The concert is free at Dirtbag Ales Taproom.
Messiah with Cumberland Choral Arts — Saturday, December 7 at 7:30 p.m. |Seabrook Auditorium
During the upcoming holiday season, FSO and Cumberland Choral Arts will team up to present a captivating rendition of Handel's Messiah at Seabrook Auditorium. Admission is free, reservations are required to secure your spot.
The Snowman — Sunday, December 15 | 4 p.m. | Cape Fear Botanical Garden
Get into the festive spirit with a family concert and movie at Cape Fear Botanical Garden.
This holiday-themed event is perfect for the community to come together and celebrate. Secure your spot by purchasing tickets, which will be available soon.
Keep an eye out for updates! Please note that a separate ticket is required for Cape Fear Botanical Garden’s Holiday Lights event.
Side by Side Concert — Sunday, March 30, 2025 | 4 p.m. | Huff Concert Hall at Methodist University
The Fayetteville Symphony Youth Orchestra will perform alongside the FSO's world-class musicians.
New dates for the FSO’s Symphony on Tap have yet to be announced. To get updates on these concerts, any of the concerts above, as well as season tickets, be sure to visit: https://www.fayettevillesymphony.org/
(Photo: The full Fayetteville Symphony Orchestra poses for a photo. The orchestra has announced their 2024/25 season. Photo courtesy of Fayetteville Symphony Orchestra)