Calendar
If you would like your event to be added, please contact calendar@rochestermusicguild.
February 2026
Sunday, February 8—4:00 p.m.
Southeastern Minnesota Youth Orchestras—Zumbro Lutheran Church–Free
Art of the Concerto SEMYO invites you to attend a recital featuring finalists from the 2026 SEMYO Concerto Competition. Selected students will present movements from concertos, showcasing both wind and string instruments with piano accompaniment. The event will highlight some of the region’s most accomplished student musicians.
Friday, February 13–12:00 Noon
Listen & Learn–Christ United Methodist Church–Free
Rachel Graves, violin & Curtis Baum, piano (classical chamber music)
Saturday, February 21—7:30 p.m.
Rochester Symphony—Mayo Civic Center Presentation Hall—$14-$45
Sky Full of Sound. Hear the music of the universe—from both near and far. Rochester native and composer, Marko Bajzer, joins Rochester Symphony to present new music celebrating the 50th anniversary of Voyageurs National Park. Next, Rochester Symphony principal cellist, Rachel Bottner, performs Dvořák’s dreamy and lyrical Silent Woods. These earthly impressions set the stage for a voyage through the solar system with Holst’s The Planets. Paired with stunning video exploring the wonders of outer space, this special multimedia concert takes the imagination on a journey from the ground beneath to the stars above. Tickets can be purchased online or by calling the Rochester Symphony Box Office at (507) 286-8742.
Sunday, February 22—2:00 p.m.
Southeastern Minnesota Youth Orchestras—John Marshall High School–$10 for adults, free for youth 18 and under
Magnum Opus: SEMYO Winter Concert SEMYO invites you to an evening of outstanding music, featuring performances from all five SEMYO orchestras and newest ensemble, Chamber Winds. For tickets, visit www.semyo.org/events/semyo-winter-concert-2026/
March 2026
Sunday, March 1–2:30
Lyra Baroque Orchestra and Grinnell Concert Choir–Zumbro Lutheran Church–$35, $30, $10
Lyra Collaborates with Grinnell. Experience a rare and captivating musical event as the Lyra Baroque Orchestra teams up with the Grinnell College Choir to present Jan Dismas Zelenka’s magnificent Missa Votiva. This collaboration brings together the Lyra Baroque Orchestra, renowned for its historically informed performances on period instruments, and the talented Grinnell Singers, under the direction of Professor John Rommereim.
Sunday, March 1—4:00 p.m.
A Festival of Music– First Presbyterian Church—Free, donations accepted
Nicholas Quardokus, organ. Nick is Canon Organist and Director of Music at Grace Church Cathedral, Charleston, SC. A graduate of Indiana University and Yale University, he previously served as Assistant Organist at Saint Thomas Church, Fifth Avenue, New York City; as Organ Scholar at St. Paul’s Parish, K Street, and assisted as a part-time interim at Washington National Cathedral, both in Washington, D.C.
Sunday, March 1–4:30 p.m.
Rochester Pops Orchestra–Bethel Lutheran Church–Free, $5, $10, $12
Contemporary Classics II This program highlights the voices of today’s composer’s, offering fresh, expressive works that honor the tradition of classical music while pushing it forward. Select pieces will showcase the newly installed antiphonal organ division and the remarkable moveable 5-manual console at Bethel Lutheran Church. Experience the rich, dynamic blend of orchestra and organ in an inspiring afternoon of powerful, beautiful music.
Saturday, March 7 – 7:30 p.m.
Rochester Chamber Music Society – Christ United Methodist Church – free
Poet’s Love. Tenor Scott Brunscheen and pianist Casey Rafn will perform Schumann’s Dichterliebe, which tells the story of a young man rejected in love, who comes to terms with his loss through reconciliation and forgiveness. Also on the program are works of Purcell and some Broadway songs. Visit our website www.rochesterchambermusic.org for more information.
Friday, March 13–12:00 Noon
Listen & Learn–Christ United Methodist Church–Free
Cecelia Otto, voice & Jan Matson, piano (early 20th century vocal parlor music)
Thursday, March 19—7:00 p.m.
Rochester Community Band—Dakota Middle School Auditorium—Free
5501 65th St NW, Rochester
A Glimpse of Spring: Come join the Band for a delightful evening of music! The concert is performed by music lovers from all walks of life and all ages. RCB will be directed by Anthony Boldt and Elijah Gray. Selections include “Earth Song,” “Pelican Dance,” “The Clef Club March,” “Dancing in the Wind,” and “Winter Blues” composed by Sam Brady – one of our members! Bring the whole family and enjoy the music! www.rochestercommunityband.org
Saturday, March 21—7:30 p.m.
Rochester Symphony—Mayo Civic Center Presentation Hall—$8-$40
Highland Romance this concert brings Romantic-era storytelling to life. Rossini’s Overture to The Barber of Seville sets the stage with a whirlwind of comic timing, mischief, and charm. The expressive range of the clarinet takes the spotlight with Weber’s beloved Clarinet Concerto, concluding with a musical trip to the highlands in Mendelssohn’s “Scottish” Symphony Tickets can be purchased online or by calling the Rochester Symphony Box Office at (507) 286-8742.
Sunday, March 22—4:00 p.m.
A Festival of Music– First Presbyterian Church—Free, donations accepted
Courtney Burton with Court’s In Session. This crew promises “Old School Jazz with an unforgettable feel-good vibe.” Many decades of experience telling stories to keep the songs and the jazz alive ensure that you’ll come away from this toe-tapper with a full heart and a new favorite. Courtney’s smooth vocals and deep appreciation for the art will dazzle!
April 2026
Friday, April 17–12:00 Noon
Listen & Learn–Christ United Methodist Church–Free
SlipJig, David Crittenden, guitar & Christopher Becknell, violin (folk and classical music)
Saturday, April 18—7:30 p.m.
Rochester Symphony—Mayo Civic Center Presentation Hall—$8-$40
Lifted by Light featuring the Rochester Symphony Chorale. The Symphony’s season concludes its season with the music of light and serenity. Tickets can be purchased online or by calling the Rochester Symphony Box Office at (507) 286-8742.
Sunday, April 19—4:00 p.m.
A Festival of Music– First Presbyterian Church—Free, donations accepted
Forte Handbell Quartet. This Colorado Springs based quartet of advanced handbell ringers has gained notoriety for their innovative and expansive repertoire. You’ve probably seen them online, and they are sought after performers and clinicians. Join us to learn just what a handbell can do—it might be more than you thought! Glorifying God with artistry, energy, and an attitude toward “rethinking possible” makes this an event you won’t want to miss.
May 2026
Saturday, May 2—7:00 p.m.
Sunday, May 3—3:00 p.m.
Choral Arts Ensemble—Christ United Methodist Church–$30, $10
This Being Human. Open your heart for a powerful program exploring the richness and complexity of the human experience. Featuring a wide range of traditional and contemporary choral works alongside songs in popular styles, the concert will address the ongoing mental health crisis with compassion, honesty, and hope. Guided by the eight dimensions of wellness, each piece has been thoughtfully selected to reflect a different facet of well-being, offering strength-based perspectives on healing and resilience. https://www.choralartsensemble.org/
Friday, May 15—12:00 Noon
Listen & Learn—Christ United Methodist Church–Free
Renee Vaughan, nyckelharpa w/ Paul Sauey, guitar (Scandinavian folk music)
Sunday, May 17—4:00 p.m.
A Festival of Music– First Presbyterian Church—Free, donations accepted
Rochester Community Music Showcase. Multiple local performers take the stage in this 4th Annual Showcase. Come for a variety of stellar musical offerings and stay for the community and fellowship among like-minded supporters of local artistry.
