A Dynamic Celebration of Music, Community, and Artistic Excellence
Owensboro, KY- The Owensboro Symphony proudly announces its 2026-27 season, featuring a five-concert subscription series beginning this October. The subscription series is presented by Owensboro Health.
This season marks Music Director Troy Quinn’s tenth season with the Symphony and celebrates the extraordinary artistry and versatility of the orchestra.
“Each season is an opportunity to tell new stories through music, and this year’s lineup truly reflects the range and spirit of our orchestra,” said Quinn. “From beloved masterworks to music that connects with audiences in new and exciting ways, there is something here for everyone.”
Audiences can expect a dynamic and diverse lineup, featuring celebrated symphonic repertoire, iconic film scores, holiday traditions, and more.
In addition to the season announcement, the Symphony invites audiences to this Saturday’s 60th Season grand finale at RiverPark Center, featuring powerhouse vocalist Andrea Lykke in her first-ever performance in the United States. As the final performance of the season, the concert offers audiences a compelling showcase of the artistry and energy that define the Owensboro Symphony.
Leading up to the 2026-27 season, the Symphony will present three free community events that bring music directly into the heart of Owensboro. Summer Salute – Dancing in the Street: The Music of Motown will take place on Saturday, June 6, at McConnell Plaza on the Owensboro Riverfront. The celebration continues with the 40th annual Concert on the Lawn, presented by U.S. Bank, on Saturday, August 22, at Kentucky Wesleyan College. On Friday, October 2, the 7th annual Symphony Stroll, sponsored by Jagoe Homes, will offer a unique, up-close musical experience for all ages.
“Our free community concerts are at the heart of what we do,” said Gwyn Payne, CEO. “They bring people together, remove barriers to access, and create shared musical experiences that belong to the entire community.”
Opening Night: Halloween Classics – Celebrate a decade of music-making as Music Director Troy Quinn launches his 10th season with a thrilling night of mystery and spectacle. This Halloween-inspired program blends haunting orchestral works with cinematic favorites, including selections from The Witches of Eastwick, Vertigo, and The Nightmare Before Christmas, alongside the dramatic grandeur of The Phantom of the Opera. Special guest Chad Benefield takes center stage in a monstrous mashup, adding electrifying energy to the evening. The program culminates with Richard Strauss’s powerful orchestral work Death and Transfiguration, a bold and unforgettable start to the season.
“Opening night sets the tone for everything that follows,” said Quinn. “This program is bold, theatrical, and a lot of fun, it’s a celebration of both the season and the journey we’ve taken together over the past decade.”
Home for the Holidays – Embrace the magic of the season and share unforgettable moments with family and friends at this cherished holiday tradition. Experience an evening filled with warmth, joy, and festive cheer as vocalist Colin Eaton joins Troy Quinn and your Owensboro Symphony. A proud veteran and vocalist in the U.S. Army Band “Pershing’s Own”, Colin brings both musical excellence and a deep sense of service to the stage while bringing extra sparkle and excitement with his lively rendition of Santa Claus Is Coming to Town! Together with the Owensboro Symphony Chorus, the Owensboro Symphony Youth Orchestra, and other surprise guests, they’ll light up the stage with the spirit of the season.
Get ready for heartwarming classics, dazzling performances, and a festive highlight that’s sure to delight. It’s the perfect way to embrace the holiday spirit with family and friends.
Journey to the New World – Acclaimed pianist Janice Carissa joins the orchestra for a thrilling program highlighted by Rhapsody on a Theme of Paganini, a dazzling showcase of virtuosic brilliance and sweeping romance. The evening culminates with the epic power and unforgettable melodies of Symphony No. 9 in E minor, from the New World, one of the most beloved symphonies ever written. A program filled with passion, drama, and musical storytelling, concludes with a gentle nod to the timeless beauty of Edelweiss, evoking a sense of nostalgia, serenity, and the enduring power of music to carry us home.
Orchestra Unleashed – The orchestra breaks free in this thrilling program packed with music from stage and screen. From the suspenseful shark theme of Jaws to the sweeping wonder of Jurassic Park, audiences will journey through bold symphonic favorites and unforgettable film scores inspired by the natural world. The program also features the sparkling Overture from La Gazza Ladra, The Firebird Suite, music from Ratatouille and The Jungle Book, and more, showcasing the orchestra’s power, color, and imagination in a concert that’s fun for the whole family.
Itzhak Perlman: Cinema Serenade – Sixteen-time Grammy Award-winning violinist, Itzhak Perlman brings more than five decades of artistry to this unforgettable performance. Experience the soaring beauty of some of the greatest film scores ever written for violin, featuring music from The Godfather, Gone with the Wind, Doctor Zhivago, Schindler’s List, and more, brought to life with Perlman’s signature warmth, brilliance, and virtuosity.
“Itzhak Perlman is truly one of the great artists of our time,” Quinn said. “Having him join us for this program is an extraordinary moment for our orchestra and our community.”
Season tickets are on sale now!
The Owensboro Symphony’s 2026-27 Season is on sale! Now is the time to purchase tickets to guarantee you have the best seats in the house for this historic season.
Back by popular demand, there is a flexible option that allows patrons to select any three concerts of their choosing for $185. This ensures that patrons can still enjoy an exceptional live music experience while accommodating their personal schedule. Some exclusions apply.
Season tickets are available through the Owensboro Symphony website. For personal service, call the Owensboro Symphony office at 270-684-0661.
Season Ticket Holder Benefits
- The best seats for the best price.
- Discount on single tickets – Additional single tickets for $45 each. (Limitations apply)
- Renewal and upgrades – Option to renew or upgrade prior to the general public.
- Flexibility – Free and easy ticket exchange for when your plans change.
- Insurance – Free replacement of lost or misplaced tickets.
- Convenient payment plan – Option to pay installments over 8 months.
- Tax deduction for unused tickets.
- Personal reminders and exclusive invitations throughout the season.
