Calendar
If you would like your event to be added, please contact calendar@rochestermusicguild.
March 2026
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)
Saturday, March 14–3:00 p.m.
Singing for Life High School Festival Finale Concert–Bethel Lutheran Church–$10
Don’t miss the grand finale of the Choral Arts Singing for Life High School Festival, a powerful celebration of choral collaboration and artistry. This culminating concert features performances by the choirs of St. Charles High School and Mayo High School, alongside SE MN Honors Choirs Concert Choir, and the Choral Arts Ensemble Singers. Under the direction of esteemed clinicians Dr. Colleen Chester, Dr. Alan Dunbar, and Dr. Liz Pearse of Winona State University — who will also join Choral Arts conductor Dr. Ryan Deignan for a special set of chamber selections — the concert promises an inspiring afternoon of music, mentorship, and community.
Thursday, March 19—2:00 p.m.
Musicians from Rochester Symphony—Rochester Public Library Auditorium—Free
Classical Music Unveiled From comedic characters to windswept adventures, music has the ability to be the greatest of storytellers. Conductor Chia-Hsuan Lin reveals how music can create storytelling elements like comic timing and mischief in the Overture to The Barber of Seville by Rossini, and adventure in the Highlands with the “Scottish” Symphony by Mendelssohn. More details about the program can be found at www.rochestersymphony.org
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!
Saturday, March 28–7:30 p.m. & Sunday, March 29–2:30 p.m.
Hometown Opera Company–Historic Chateau Theatre–$34, $40, $130
Madrigals & Mirth: The Troubadour Returns In need of a good laugh—with a smooch of romance? Madrigals & Mirth: The Troubadour Returns is the perfect solution. This lively show delivers mistaken identity, sharp wit, and madrigal drama on an operatic scale. Join us for a thrilling journey filled with music and laughter! Visit our website Hometown Opera Company for more information.
April 2026
Thursday, April 16—2:00 p.m.
Musicians from Rochester Symphony—Rochester Public Library Auditorium—Free
Classical Music Unveiled Join Rochester Symphony directors to discover how music makes a spring morning come to life in the lesser-known but luminous D’un matin de printemps by Lila Boulanger, and how Mozart’s wit and sparkle depicts an elegant celebration among the nobility in the “Haffner” Symphony. We’ll conclude our series by exploring Faure’s Requiem and its unique ability to comfort and console. More details about the program can be found at www.rochestersymphony.org
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.
Saturday, April 25 – 7:30 p.m.
Rochester Chamber Music Society – Christ United Methodist Church – free
Compass Rose Brass Ensemble. We welcome the return to Rochester of the Compass Rose Brass Ensemble. Their brilliant sounds will close our season with a varied program featuring works from the 17th century to the present times. The ensemble will perform pieces by Handel, Bach, Lloyd Webber, Queen, and more. Visit our website www.
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.
