Prepare to be swept away by the grandeur and elegance of Baroque music as the Fayetteville Symphony Orchestra presents Handel's “Water Music” Suite. This highly anticipated concert will take place on Saturday, Nov. 23, at the historic St. John's Episcopal Church located at 302 Green Street. Doors will open at 6:30 p.m., allowing guests to soak in the beautiful surroundings before the concert begins at 7:30 p.m.
Commissioned by King George I in 1717, Handel's 'Water Music' is a collection of orchestral movements that were originally performed on a barge on the River Thames. The suite is known for its lively dance movements, including minuets, bourrées, and hornpipes, which entertained the royal audience and the public alike during a grand river procession.
The 'Water Music' suite is divided into three parts and showcases Handel's exceptional ability to compose music that is both grand and accessible. Its joyful and buoyant melodies have made it a favorite for both formal occasions and casual listening, ensuring its place in the canon of great Baroque music.
The concert will feature a chamber orchestra of twenty musicians from the Fayetteville Symphony, many of whom are familiar faces to regular attendees. Under the skilled leadership of Concertmaster Fabian Lopez, who amazed audiences last year with a sold-out performance of Vivaldi's “Four Seasons,” the ensemble is set to deliver an unforgettable experience.
Joining him are other notable performers such as Principal Bassist Rebecca Marland and Second Oboe Ron Ford, both of whom have captivated audiences in the FSO’s Symphony on Tap series. These talented musicians bring a wealth of expertise and passion to their performances, making each concert a unique and memorable event.
St. John's Episcopal Church is not only a historic and beautiful venue but also offers exceptional acoustics that enhance the musical experience. Music Director Stefan Sanders expresses his enthusiasm for performing Baroque music in this intimate and inviting space, noting how the church’s architecture and ambiance perfectly complement the intricate compositions of the Baroque era. Attendees will enjoy the unique opportunity to hear Handel’s music in a setting that truly brings out the nuances and richness of the performance, making the evening even more special.
Tickets for this enchanting evening are available for purchase online at https://www.fayettevillesymphony.org/, by contacting the FSO office at 910-433-4690, or at the door on the night of the concert. The FSO is pleased to offer discounts for seniors, military personnel, college students, children, and Cumberland County Schools employees, ensuring that everyone can experience this remarkable performance.
Join the Fayetteville Symphony Orchestra for an evening of musical magic as they bring Handel’s timeless compositions to life in the enchanting setting of St. John’s Episcopal Church. This is an event that promises to captivate the hearts and minds of all who attend.

(Photo: The Fayetteville Symphony Orchestra will be playing Handel's "Water Music Suite" on Nov. 23. Photo courtesy of FSO's Facebook Page)