It’s been quite a year for the Fayetteville Symphony Orchestra. The organization held auditions for its next conductor by having candidates test their skills on stage at each concert this season. With a decision coming soon, next season’s audiences have plenty to look forward to. The is one more even to enjoy before this season ends, though. The FSO presents the Second Annual Jazz and Wine Fest, Friday, April 7, from 6 p.m. – 10 p.m. in Festival Park located in downtown Fayetteville. 

“The Jazz and Wine Fest is going to be a nice social evening out,” said Julia Atkins, Director of Artistic Operations and Marketing for the FSO. “It was originally scheduled for Oct. 7, but due to Hurricane Matthew we had to postpone it.” Atkins added that the idea first started as a fundraiser for the FSO and they decided to have a jazz and wine fest because it would be a cool thing for Fayetteville to have. 

The Fayetteville Symphony Orchestra reached out to universities to perform for the event and wanted to give them the publicity as well. The festival will feature performances by statewide jazz bands and acapella student groups from UNC Greensboro, UNC Chapel Hill, UNC Pembroke, Methodist University and Fayetteville State University. “They will be performing throughout the evening, and people are welcome to come,” said Atkins. “There will be various beer and wine by Healy Wholesale Company along with food trucks on-site for attendees to purchase food items.” Atkins added that a general admission ticket includes this as well as a souvenir glass. 

“We encourage people to purchase tickets in advance, and we welcome parents to bring their kids,” said Atkins. “This is really a nice event to give the community of Fayetteville something else to go and see.”       

The fest will take place rain or shine. General admission is $25 before the day of the event and $30 the day of the event. The military price is $20, $10 for kids and non-drinking is $10. The VIP package is $45 per person, and it includes a separate beer and wine service, appetizers from Carrabba’s Italian Grill and reserved seating close to the stage. It is limited to the first 150 people to purchase. Lawn chairs and blankets are welcome. 

 For more information or to purchase tickets visit www.fayettevillesymphony.org or call 433-4690.