Oakland, Atlanta, Wheeling, Gulf Coast Symphonies Present Diverse 2025–26 Season Highlights

Several American symphony orchestras are opening their 2025-2026 seasons with innovative and culturally rich programs that blend classical music with diverse artistic expressions and community engagement. The Oakland Symphony, under Music Director Kedrick Armstrong, kicked off their season with a lively concert featuring the 84-year-old composer Adolphus Hailstork's Symphony No. 1, drawing a diverse audience and showcasing a spontaneous concert atmosphere. The Atlanta Symphony Orchestra celebrated Diwali with a free Visions of India festival preceding their Delta Classical concert, featuring Indian music and dance, and performances by Hindustani violinist Kala Ramnath and guest conductor Vinay Parameswaran. Wheeling Symphony Orchestra combined visual art, dance, and music in their Masterworks concert, performing works like Benjamin Britten's suite from Peter Grimes with choreography from local dance students, and closing with Aaron Copland's Appalachian Spring. Meanwhile, the Gulf Coast Symphony in Lee County emphasized community unity through music, presenting a dynamic season with themed concerts such as “Decades: Back to the 80s,” tributes to R&B and rock legends, and orchestral tours honoring Tony Bennett and David Bowie. These orchestras illustrate a commitment to cultural diversity, community involvement, and innovative programming to attract broader audiences.