Thursday, October 9, 2025

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Central Oregon
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OperaBend Presents: Rising Voices!

Our 2025-26 season opens with a special concert featuring six gifted young singers from around the Pacific Northwest! 

Saturday, October 11th at 3:00 PM at Wille Hall, located on the Central Oregon Community College (COCC) campus.

This inspiring afternoon of music offers a chance to witness the next wave of operatic excellence. The program will feature selections from beloved composers including Donizetti, Mozart, Strauss, Sondheim, and more -- highlighting both classic and contemporary repertoire.

As a special preview, the concert will also include excerpts from Die Fledermaus, which OperaBend will present in full in June 2026.

Admission is donation-based, making this an accessible and meaningful cultural experience for all. Patrons are encouraged to reserve their seats in advance.

Tickets Available Here

 

HDCM 18th Season Opens This Weekend
with Solo Piano Recital!




 

 High Desert Chamber Music’s 2025-26 season, presented by Washington Trust Bank and Lynch Murphy McLane LLP, opens this weekend with a solo piano recital featuring Jordanian pianist Karim Said. He has been praised by Intermezzo for his “clear and robust articulation with an intelligence of phrasing way beyond his years,” and described by Classical Iconoclast as “impressive technically… effortless elegance and grace.”

This concert is brought to you by Miller Lumber and will take place on Sunday, October 12, 2025, at 5:00pm,  at the Unitarian Universalist Fellowship. The program features a wide-ranging selection of works by composers including Byrd, Beethoven, Chopin, and Schumann. Ticket holders may join Karim for a concert preview at 4:30pm.

Karim Said has performed on some of the world’s most renowned stages, captivating audiences both as a solo pianist and chamber musician. His early association with Daniel Barenboim—who first heard Karim perform at the age of ten, remarking, “what you cannot learn, he already knows”—set him on a distinguished musical path. Most recently, he founded the Amman Chamber Orchestra as its principal conductor and was appointed director of music at the new Amman Institute of Performing Arts in Jordan, both initiatives of the Bank al Etihad Foundation. Karim Said is also an Associate of the Royal Academy of Music, London.

High Desert Chamber Music’s mission is to bring world-class chamber music and musicians to Central Oregon. HDCM presents an acclaimed series of classical chamber music concerts featuring an exciting roster of professional performing artists. Join us in our eighteenth season and experience the impact that live musical excellence can bring to our community! Come hear the music!

Further information:

General Admission - $48, Child/Student Tickets $10
Unitarian Universalist Fellowship of Central Oregon – 61980 Skyline Ranch Rd., Bend
Contact: 541.306.3988 / info@HighDesertChamberMusic.com / 961 NW Brooks St. (Downtown Bend)

High Desert Chamber Music Introduces
NWX Prelude: A Dining & Music Experience!




 

The Celebrations Start October 25th!

High Desert Chamber Music is excited to introduce NWX Prelude: A Dining & Music Experience! HDCM has partnered with Washington Bend and Mountain Burger to offer an exclusive opportunity for our concert-goers. On HDCM concert evenings, guests can dine before or after the performance and show your ticket to receive a 10% discount at either restaurant. Guests will also be entered into a season-end raffle to win two $50 gift cards - one to each restaurant! It’s our way of bringing the community together—supporting local businesses while treating you to a perfect pairing of great food and exceptional music.

Enjoy an evening out in Northwest Crossing with us! Dine at one of the participating restaurants, then head across the street to the Unitarian Universalist Fellowship for an unforgettable concert. This offer is valid for this season’s HDCM concert dates:

  • October 12, 2025
  • November 7, 2025
  • March 29, 2026
  • May 15, 2026
  • June 14, 2026

The HDCM Concert Series launches this month with its most ambitious year yet. The 18th season features an entirely new roster of ensembles making their Central Oregon debuts — from Jordan, France, the Czech Republic, and New York.

Tickets are available through HDCM online, by phone, or in person at their office in Downtown Bend. HDCM 2025-2026 title sponsors include Washington Trust Bank and Lynch Murphy McLane LLP, Pahlisch Homes, Miller Lumber, German Master Tech, Pine Tavern Restaurant, Drew Family Dentistry, Cascade School of Music, Cascade A&E, Central Oregon Daily, and Newstalk KBND and 107.7 Radio.

High Desert Chamber Music’s mission is to bring world-class chamber music and musicians to Central Oregon. HDCM presents an acclaimed series of classical chamber music concerts featuring an exciting roster of professional performing artists. Join us in our eighteenth season and experience the impact that live musical excellence can bring to our community! Come hear the music!

Further information:
Washington Bend – 900 Mt. Washington Dr. Bend, OR 97703 
Mountain Burger – 2747 NW Crossing Dr. Bend, OR 97703
Unitarian Universalist Fellowship of Central Oregon – 61980 Skyline Ranch Rd. Bend, OR 97703
Contact: 541.306.3988 / info@HighDesertChamberMusic.com / 961 NW Brooks St. (Downtown Bend)

 

Central Oregon Symphony
Fall Concerts!



The Celebrations Start October 25th!

Fall Concerts – Violinist Linda Wang joins the orchestra for Tchaikovsky’s beloved Violin Concerto in D Major. A former child prodigy who debuted with Zubin Mehta and the New York Philharmonic at age nine, Wang has since performed with more than 75 orchestras worldwide. Known for her warm tone and expressive artistry, she performs on a 1767 Guadagnini violin. The program also features Dvořák’s “New World” Symphony, a masterwork blending European tradition with American folk influences, capturing a spirit of discovery and hope.

  • Saturday, October 25th | 2 PM & 7:30 PM
  • Sunday, October 26th | 2 PM

Location for all concerts: Mountain View High School Auditorium, 2755 NE 27th St, Bend, OR 97701

For further information about our concert season, please see the season brochure at the link here.


Ticketing System and Membership Information

Similar to the 2024-25 season, seating is limited, so it is essential for members to secure tickets in advance. We have implemented a ticketing system to ensure that all members can enjoy the performances.

You must be a member to reserve tickets.  Here’s to become a member and reserve your tickets:

  1. Become a member for the 2025-2026 season.  

QR code here: 

  1. Once you register to become a member, you will be emailed a link to reserve your concert tickets.

For assistance with ticketing or membership, please contact us at (541) 317-3941, email at info@cosymphony.com,  or visit our office at 15 SW Colorado Ave, Suite 320, Bend, OR 97702.

Looking Ahead

The Central Oregon Symphony enters a new chapter this season as it relocates to its new home at Mountain View High School. The orchestra remains steadfast in its commitment to presenting outstanding performances and community programs that enrich the cultural life of the region.

In order to provide the highest quality concert experience, complimentary tickets will not be available this year. Community members are encouraged to secure their seats by becoming Symphony members and joining in this landmark season.

The Central Oregon Symphony looks forward to welcoming audiences to its new venue and continuing its tradition of presenting exceptional symphonic music.

Contact Info: info@cosymphony.com

Rooted in Song One Night Only!



 

Experience an unforgettable evening of music and connection as Central Oregon Mastersingers presents Rooted in Song with acclaimed vocalist and composer Moira Smiley.

Get ready to experience an extraordinary range of music!
From Smiley’s original compositions and rousing shape-note songs, to arrangements of folk treasures from artists such as Jean Ritchie, and traditional songs from England and Sweden—these vibrant pieces weave together past and present, carrying the spirit of community and connection. As a special highlight, you’ll be the first to hear the world premiere of Northern Flicker, a piece commissioned by Central Oregon Mastersingers to celebrate our 20th anniversary—a joyful milestone we’re thrilled to share with you!

Renowned for her expressive voice and genre-blending artistry, Moira Smiley has captivated audiences worldwide with music that bridges folk traditions and contemporary choral innovation. Known to Central Oregon audiences from her performances at the Sisters Folk Festival, Moira now brings her distinctive artistry, woven with warmth, narrative depth, and global perspective, to the Tower Theatre.

Join the Mastersingers, the Dove String Quartet, and talented local high school singers as we create an inspiring, intergenerational celebration of music.

October 29 @ 7:00 pm
Adult: $24 - $44, Students (18 & under): 1/2 Price! (plus $8 Historic Preservation Fee)

Ticket Link Here

Mark Your Calendars for Beetlejuice Jr!

 


 

This is a show about death. This show dives into the “whole being dead thing” with heart and humor. When teenager Lydia Deetz moves into a haunted house and meets the ghostly couple who once lived there—along with a mischievous demon named Beetlejuice—chaos ensues!

Performance Dates

  • Thursday, Oct 30 | 8:00–11:00am (School Show) & 5:00–9:00pm
  • Friday, Oct 31 | 5:00–10:00pm
  • Saturday, Nov 1 | 12:00–4:00pm & 5:00–8:00pm
  • Thursday, Nov 6 | 5:00–9:00pm
  • Friday, Nov 7 | 8:00–11:00am (School Show) & 5:00–10:00pm
  • Saturday, Nov 8 | 12:00–4:00pm & 5:00–8:00pm

Questions? Reach out to Lauren at admin@beatchildrenstheatre.org.

Bluegrass + Classical Violinist Tessa Lark Returns to Central Oregon!


Acclaimed violinist Tessa Lark to perform
at Sunriver Christian Fellowship
Sunday, November 2, 3 pm

Violinist Tessa Lark is one of the most captivating artistic voices of our time, consistently praised by critics and audiences for her astounding range of sounds, technical agility, and musical elegance. She is also a highly acclaimed fiddler in the tradition of her native Kentucky, delighting audiences with programming that includes Appalachian and bluegrass music.

Lark’s most recent album, The Stradgrass Sessions, released in 2023, features an all-star roster of collaborators and composers including pianist Jon Batiste, mandolinist Sierra Hull and fiddler Michael Cleveland. Album selections mix original compositions by Lark and her collaborators with a sonata by Eugène Ysaÿe, a selection of Bartók’s violin duets arranged for violin and mandolin, and the world premiere recording of John Corigliano’s STOMP.

Lark performs with orchestras around the world and returns to Sunriver November 2nd to perform an eclectic solo recital of classical and bluegrass music. Tickets on sale now at sunrivermusic.org.

VIP Experience – Be one of only 40 exclusive ticket holders to attend the Artist Meet & Greet immediately following the concert.

Tickets are $80 for the VIP Experience, $25 for ages 25 and under, $50 all others.
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Sunriver Music Festival presents world-class orchestral performances and supports music education throughout Central Oregon. Through a commitment to excellence, collaboration and innovation, the Festival seeks to foster a lifelong love of classical music in its many diverse forms. Visit sunrivermusic.org for more information.

Next Taizé Session Nov. 6th!


A meditative interfaith service of music, prayer, silence

2025-2026 SEASON
7-8 pm on the first Thursday
October through May*
Trinity Episcopal Church, St. Helen’s Hall
(across the street from Trinity sanctuary)
231 NW Idaho St, Bend
Families Welcome!

* January and April services to be 2nd Thursday, Jan. 8 and April 9

May service to be at Shalom Bayit
21555 Modoc Lane, Bend (off Ward Road, east of Bend)

Both locations are wheelchair accessible

Sponsored by
Taizé Choir of Central Oregon

taizebend@gmail.com 541-815-5574
https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100071919285548

Music in Public Places: 
Dove String Quartet!




Saturday, November 15, 2025
2:00 PM  3:00 PM
Sister's Public Library
110 North Cedar Street Sisters

Bend Pops Orchestra Fall Concert!


Same great concert, two choices of venues!

 

Saturday, November 22nd - 2 PM
Ridgeview High School Auditorium 
4555 SW Elkhorn Ave, Redmond

Sunday, November 23rd - 2 PM
Mountain View High School Auditorium
2755 NE 27th St, Bend
 

Admission, as always, is FREE! 

For more information about this and future performances, please visit our website www.bendpops.org or follow us on Facebook or Instagram.

 

HOLIDAY MAGIC - A SEASON’S JOURNEY!


Join us at the Tower Theatre December 6 and 7, for an extraordinary evening of song and seasonal joy as the Cascade Chorale returns with its beloved Holiday Magic concert. This cherished tradition brings together heartwarming classics and vibrant new works that celebrate the themes of mystery, wonder, joy, and community — the very essence of the holiday season.

Under the inspired direction of James W. Knox, Central Oregon’s flagship community chorus will showcase its rich vocal artistry through original arrangements and compositions, alongside timeless carols and choral gems. More than a concert, Holiday Magic 2025 offers a meditative musical journey that invites reflection, connection, and celebration.

Come share in the joy — and let the music of the season lift your spirit!

Hilltop Home Loans is the title sponsor of the 2025 Holiday Magic concert, which promises to be a moving and memorable evening for audiences of all ages. 

Discover the Joy of Music with the Cascade Chorale Association

Visit cascadechorale.org

Explore our exciting 2025–2026 Concert Season
Learn how to get involved
Support us through Sponsorship Opportunities, and our 
Give the Gift of Song contribution program

Thanks to your voice, your involvement, and your generosity 
you help keep our community singing!

Rock the Holidays at the Tower with Concert Rock Violinist Aaron Meyer!

Concert Rock Violinist Aaron Meyer and band to perform
at the Tower Theatre in downtown Bend
December 10, 7:30 p.m.

Violinist Aaron Meyer’s “Concert Rock” style of performance blends his classical training with a passion for rock music. Inspired by a fusion of classical and rock, Aaron’s music features arrangements from Vivaldi to Led Zeppelin; Aerosmith to Rossini; and Mozart to Queen’s Bohemian Rhapsody.

A student of the violin since age 5, Meyer debuted with the Philadelphia Orchestra by age 11. He later soloed with the Oregon Symphony, the Bangkok Symphony Orchestra in Thailand and many other symphony orchestras. Over the last two decades, Aaron has released 11 albums and is in constant demand on stage. Aaron plays a Benjamin Ruth acoustic violin and a John Jordan 6 string electric violin, with a custom-built pedal board.

A Central Oregon fan favorite, Sunriver Music Festival has been presenting Concert Rock Violinist Aaron Meyer and band in concert since the mid 1990s. Tickets on sale now at sunrivermusic.org or call 541-593-9310. Tickets range $40-65 per person. Join the tradition to ROCK THE HOLIDAYS experiencing Meyer’s original material and hits of the season, combining contemporary and classical styles with his dynamic rock band.
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Sunriver Music Festival presents world-class orchestral performances and supports music education throughout Central Oregon. Through a commitment to excellence, collaboration and innovation, the Festival seeks to foster a lifelong love of classical music in its many diverse forms. Visit sunrivermusic.org for more information.

Seeking!
Director of Music and Worship Ministry
Grace First Lutheran Church

Grace First Lutheran Church (ELCA), located in Bend, Oregon, is a welcoming, multi-generational faith community of around 150 people. We are seeking a part-time Director of Music and Worship Ministry who shares our love for the beauty and importance of congregational song and music. If you are someone who wants to build connection through music, values both tradition and creativity, and feels called to use your gifts in a vibrant church community, we invite you to consider joining us.

Duties

  • Plan, coordinate, and lead all aspects of GFLC’s Music Ministry

  • Serve as pianist and vocalist during regular Sunday services (Note: applicants who cannot play piano will be responsible for hiring and coordinating piano players.)

  • Direct, encourage, and grow the GFLC Praise Team

  • Add a voice to relevant staff and committee meetings

  • Collaborate with the pastor and song team in choosing music that reflects the church seasons and enriches congregational worship

  • Input music and lyrics into the weekly bulletin via Google Docs

  • Plan and lead special seasonal services, such as Wednesday evening Advent, Lenten Wednesdays, Holy Week, Christmas Eve, etc.

  • Invite and coordinate additional musicians from the congregation and community as needed

  • Maintain the church’s musical equipment

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

  • Proficiency as a pianist and/or guitarist 

  • Understanding of the church calendar and seasons and ability to integrate with the music selection

  • Comfort using online song databases and planning tools such as CCLI and Sundays and Seasons

  • Ability to lead a congregation of all ages in worship with confidence and a heart for ministry

  • Familiarity with different worship styles, including but not limited to:

    • Evangelical Lutheran Worship

    • All Creation Sings

    • Newer hymns 

    • Current praise songs

    • Contemplative music (instrumental, Taize, etc.)

  • Skill in introducing new songs, proactively teaching them to the congregation, and building familiarity over time

  • Openness to hosting concerts or musical events that connect the church with the surrounding community

  • Familiarity with audio-visual equipment and the ability to troubleshoot technical problems

  • Ability to direct larger choirs as needed for Easter and other special occasions

  • A team-oriented, outgoing spirit, with a heart for ministry rather than performance

Grace First Lutheran Church (ELCA)

Mission statement: Jesus calls us to seek, celebrate, and share God’s grace. Learn more at https://www.gracefirstlutheran.org/our-mission Past services can be viewed at https://www.facebook.com/GFLCBend 

Compensation

  • Hourly (currently $25/hr.)

  • Approximately 15 hours per week (flexible, depending on the applicant’s gifts and availability)

To Apply 

  • Please provide a resume and answer the question, “What is congregational worship, and what role does a music and worship director play in it?” Submit resume to gracefirstlutheranmusic@gmail.com. The posting will be live until the end of October.

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Central Oregon Music and Theater News