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This Week's Headlines Read on below for more details! April 18-19: See Giselle with OperaBend's help April 18: Music in Public Places: The Dove String Quartet April 18: Brass Masterclass & Concert with the 27th St. Brass Quintet and the Oregon Brass Quintet April 19: RCCA Present Rigley & Flambeau - Comp Tix Available! April 20: Cello Masterclass Applications due April 21: Celebrate National Poetry Month with Lumina Flute Trio April 24: Art Due for The Secret Garden! April 25: CO Mastersingers: We are the Music Makers! May 3: Now and Evermore: A Celebration of Great Hymns and Anthems May 7: Taizé May 8-17: The Secret Garden, BEAT Children's Theatre May 9: "Mostly Low" A Recital for Low Flutes and Piano May 16: HDCM/CSM Peter Wiley Cello Masterclass May 16 & 17: Cascade Chorale, Sing the POPS ~ A Celebration of America's 250th May 23 & 24: OperaBend, The Medium June 7: Bend Pops Orchestra Presents: Popspourri! June 19 & 21: OperaBend, Die Fledermaus July 18: Sunriver Music Festival Raise the Baton Fundraising Party Aug 10-20: Sunriver Music Festival: America@250 For Sale / Seeking Help / In the News HDCM Spotlight Chamber Players Available for Private Events April 10 - May 3: Come Say Hello to Me! May 1: Sunriver Music Festival Young Artists Scholarship Applications Due June 15: Submissions due for virtual version of The Star-Spangled Banner July 18: Sunriver Music Festival Raise the Baton Fundraising Party Have news to share? Check out the deadline and rates at the bottom!

OperaBend Supports the Central Oregon School of Ballet!   This June, artists from Central Oregon School of Ballet will be joining OperaBend on stage for Die Fledermaus. But you don’t have to wait until then to experience their work. This weekend, Central Oregon School of Ballet presents Giselle, one of the most celebrated classical ballets of the Romantic era. It’s a rare opportunity to see a full-length ballet performed right here in Bend—and to get a preview of the dancers you’ll see in June. As a friend of Opera Bend, you’re invited to attend with 25% off tickets using the code: GIVEMETHEWILLIS  April 18 & 19  Mountain View High School Auditorium For Tickets and more information visit www.centraloregonschoolofballet.com/giselle/ We hope you’ll join us in supporting these talented artists and enjoy an evening of beautiful classical ballet. Why This Event Matters Your presence isn't just appreciated — it's powerful. A thriving arts community depends on collaboration, mentorship, and shared audiences. Central Oregon School of Ballet’s production of Giselle represents the kind of high‑quality, locally produced work that keeps the performing arts vibrant in Central Oregon. When you attend, you’re helping sustain the organizations that make our region culturally rich — including the partners and future collaborators who help OperaBend bring ambitious productions to life.

Masterclass Applications Due April 20th, 10 AM!   Event Details: Masterclass Application Deadline: April 20, 2026 Saturday, May 16, 2026 First Presbyterian Church of Bend Heritage Hall 9:30am-11:30am Admission: Free and open to the public High Desert Chamber Music’s Celebrity Recitals returns this season with renowned cellist Peter Wiley. He will be joined by pianist and Steinway Artist Anna Polonsky, returning to Central Oregon after their appearance on the HDCM Concert Series in 2017. The program includes Beethoven’s Variations on The Magic Flute, Schubert’s Arpeggione Sonata, and Rachmaninoff’s Sonata in G minor, Op. 19. A member of the Beaux Arts Trio from 1987 to 1998, Wiley later succeeded his teacher, David Soyer, as cellist of the Guarneri String Quartet from 2001 to 2009. He is an Avery Fisher Career Grant recipient and has been nominated twice for Grammy Awards. He was accepted into the Curtis Institute of Music at age 13 and became principal cellist of the Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra at 20. During his tenure there, he connected with Concertmaster Phillip Ruder, now a Bend resident and HDCM advisory board member, who helped bring Wiley to Central Oregon nearly a decade ago. Pianist Anna Polonsky is widely in demand as a soloist and chamber musician. She is a recipient of a Borletti-Buitoni Trust Fellowship and the Andrew Wolf Chamber Music Award. Polonsky made her solo debut at age seven in Moscow and later studied at the Curtis Institute of Music and The Juilliard School. “We are delighted to welcome Peter Wiley and Anna Polonsky back to Central Oregon,” says HDCM Executive Director Isabelle Senger. “Their previous visit left a lasting impression on our audience, and this return—made possible through long-standing artistic relationships—highlights the kind of meaningful connections that continue to shape our Concert Series and bring extraordinary music to our community.” Tickets are available through HDCM online, by phone, or in person at their office in Downtown Bend. Title sponsorship provided by Pahlisch Homes, Newberry Hotel, Cascade A&E, Central Oregon Daily, and Combined Communications. High Desert Chamber Music’s mission is to bring exceptional 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! Application Details: Applications for cellists are available on the High Desert Chamber Music and Cascade School of Music websites. The submission deadline is Monday, April 20, 2026, 10:00am. All applicants will receive complimentary admission to Peter Wiley's performance on Friday, May 15, at the Unitarian Universalist Fellowship of Central Oregon. High Desert Chamber Music’s mission is to bring exceptional 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!  Cello Master Class Application link: https://forms.gle/SjjGhJ9MKEuHATJQ8 Further information: Contact HDCM: 541.306.3988 / info@HighDesertChamberMusic.com / 961 NW Brooks St. Contact CSM: 541.382.6866 / www.cascadeschoolofmusic.org / 510 NE 3rd St.

Music Masters: Brass Masterclass and Community Concert!   April 18, masterclass starting at 10:00, Concert at 7:00PM Wille Hall, Coats Campus Center, COCC Bend Campus 2600 NW College Way, Bend, OR 97703 On April 18th, our community will enjoy a full day celebrating brass music with a 10:00 AM brass masterclass and a 7:00 PM evening concert, featuring the 27th St. Brass Quintet and the distinguished Oregon Brass Quintet. This special event brings together elite performance, music education, and artistic inspiration for musicians and audiences alike.   The Oregon Brass Quintet (OBQ) has served as the faculty brass ensemble in residence at the University of Oregon since the early 1970s. Comprised of the acclaimed UO brass faculty, the ensemble has built a decades-long reputation for artistic excellence, education, and advocacy for brass chamber music. The OBQ actively promotes the art form through clinics, educational programs, and recitals, while exploring both traditional masterworks and new repertoire for brass quintet. Their extensive performance history spans the Northwestern United States, with appearances in school concerts, concert halls, and major educational conferences, including the NAfME/All Northwest Conference.   The day begins with a brass masterclass at 10:00 AM, where students, educators, and local musicians will have the opportunity to learn directly from these accomplished artists. The session will focus on technique, ensemble playing, musical interpretation, and professional musicianship, offering participants valuable guidance and inspiration. At 7:00 PM, the celebration continues with an evening concert showcasing the bold, dynamic sound of brass chamber music. The 27th St. Brass Quintet and the Oregon Brass Quintet will present a vibrant and engaging program that highlights virtuosity, expressive depth, and the thrilling range of the brass ensemble.   This April 18th event reflects our commitment to artistic excellence, music education, and community enrichment—bringing high-caliber performance and meaningful learning opportunities to Central Oregon. It promises to be a memorable and inspiring day for brass enthusiasts, students, educators, and music lovers.

MUSIC IN PUBLIC PLACES Dove String Quartet! Saturday April 18, 2026 La Pine Public Library | 2 pm No ticket required. Family-friendly. Performances typically last an hour. Dove String Quartet—a talented ensemble drawn from musicians of the Central Oregon Symphony, featuring two violins, viola, and cello—will present a free public concert at the La Pine Public Library. Known for their elegant programming—from romantic-era favorites to light classical and folk‑inspired pieces—the Quartet offers a warm and inviting afternoon of chamber music that’s perfect for families and listeners of all ages.  Join us at the library for an hour of beautiful live music in an intimate, welcoming setting. It’s a wonderful opportunity to experience Central Oregon’s rich musical talent close to home.

Don't Miss Rigley and Flambeau ... Comp Tix Available!   Redmond Community Concert Association is offering an opportunity to attend the final concert of the 2025-26 5-concert series as a guest.  RCCA will be featuring Tom Rigney and Flambeau for a high energy performance that promises a show of evocative and powerfully uplifting music.   This is the culmination of 42 seasons of world class performances presented by RCCA whose mission is bringing affordable quality live entertainment to Central Oregon audiences.  RCCA will be revealing the 2026-27 season at this show and subscriptions will be available. The complimentary tickets are available to the 6:30 show on April 19 to be held at the Ridgeview High School Performing Arts Theater in Redmond.   To reserve seats, email RCCA at info@redmondcca.org with your name, address and email address, or call 541-350-7222. You can pick up your tickets at Will Call on the evening of the performance. We’ll also add you to our mailing list so you can hear about future seasons and special events.    ABOUT RCCA Redmond Community Concert Association is rolling out their 43rd season on October 4 with Alias Brass, a collaboration of five uniquely talented artists from across the nation. The Redmond Community Concert Association is proud to be an important part of the arts and cultural scene in Central Oregon.  As it approaches its 43rd season, RCCA continues to pursue its mission to bring quality live entertainment at an affordable cost to Central Oregon audiences and to provide artistic outreach to students in the Redmond School District. Founded in 1983 by a group of community-minded citizens who had a love for entertainment, RCCA first affiliated with Columbia Artist Management, Inc and later with Trawick Artists Management, Inc who provided booking services until January 2003. In 2003 the board of directors took a huge leap of faith and decided to do their own booking.  Though the task was large, the organization grew from the experience.  By dealing directly with agents and artists, RCCA now books a broader variety of entertainment at a competitive cost. RCCA is an all-volunteer, non-profit organization.  Because of the board members and volunteers as well as the partnership with Redmond School District for use of the Ridgeview Performing Arts Theater, RCCA presents 5 programs per season at a very affordable cost.  The generous support of patrons and advertisers who believe in RCCA makes it possible to keep costs low.  It also makes it possible for RCCA to contract with artists to perform an outreach event on the Monday following concerts.  RCCA also awards scholarships to Redmond students who have an interest in pursuing a degree in the arts. 2026-27 CONCERT SEASON October 4, 2026: Alias Brass November 15, 2026: Ultima (Three Tenors) January 24, 2027: Judy Carmichael Trio March 7, 2027: Mads Tolling and the Mads Men April 18, 2027: Solomon Jaye – Tap Into Soul OTHER FACTS ABOUT THE 2024-25 CONCERT SEASON Tickets are sold by season subscription only.  The cost for 5 concerts is $85 for adults, $175 for families with children at home, $25 for students under 18. All concerts are held at Ridgeview High School Performing Arts Theater (4555 SW Elkhorn Ave) on Sundays.  Subscribers have a choice of purchasing tickets for either the 2 p.m. or 6:30 p.m. concert. For more information, season preview video, and online ticket purchase portal, visit www.redmondcca.org or call 541-350-7222.

Celebrate National Poetry Month with Lumina Flute Trio! Tuesday, April 21, 2026 4:00PM Barber Library, COCC Bend Campus Free admission Program Flyer Poetry Month Website The Central Oregon Community College is celebrating National Poetry Month this April with a series of workshops and performances, free and open to the public, with events happening at all four COCC campuses. As part of the celebration, musical offerings from the Lumina Flute Trio, inspired by poetry, fairy tales, mythology, classical nursery rhymes and other themes of growth, will take place at the Barber Library from 4-5 p.m. on April 21.

CALL FOR ARTISTS! The Secret Garden DEADLINE: April 24, 2026 We are seeking donated, handmade flowers from BEAT families, local artists, and community members of all ages and experience levels for The Secret Garden. As the story unfolds, the stage will gradually fill with your creations, symbolizing growth, healing, and joy. Donated flowers will also be featured in a silent auction to benefit BEAT during the show's run, giving audience members the chance to bid and take home a beautiful piece of the production. Flower Guidelines: Any medium welcome: paper, fabric, ceramic, metal, crochet, painting, photography, illustration, etc. Maximum 2 feet in diameter Maximum 5 pounds (contact us if heavier) No lights or electronic elements Bright colors encouraged, but no neon colors Designed to be hung, mounted, or placed on stage Minimal use of leaves is welcome If you have an idea outside these guidelines or any questions about contributing, please contact our Executive Director, Bree Beal, at bree.beal@beatchildrenstheatre.org Drop-off Location: BEAT Studio, 1080 SE 9th Street, Ste 120, Bend, OR 97702 Thank you for helping us fill our stage, and our community, with beauty.

CO Mastersingers: We Are The Music Makers! Saturday, April 25, 2026 | 7:00 PM Celebrate twenty years of choral music with the Central Oregon Mastersingers in a special anniversary concert at the Tower Theatre. Led by Artistic Director and Conductor Christian Clark, We Are the Music Makers closes the ensemble’s 20th anniversary season—an evening that celebrates two decades of music-making, community, and artistic collaboration in Central Oregon. At the heart of the program is Illuminare by acclaimed composer Elaine Hagenberg, performed with orchestra. This luminous and deeply moving work explores themes of light, hope, and renewal, weaving together rich choral textures with expressive orchestral writing. Hagenberg’s music has quickly become beloved by choirs and audiences alike, and Illuminare offers a powerful centerpiece for this milestone celebration. The evening will also feature favorite selections from the Mastersingers’ twenty-year history—music that has shaped the ensemble’s identity and resonated with audiences throughout the region and beyond. Founding director Clyde Thompson will join us for this special occasion, along with former members of the ensemble, making this concert both a reunion and a tribute to the community that has sustained the Mastersingers since its founding. Whether you have been part of our journey for years or are experiencing the Mastersingers for the first time, this concert promises an inspiring night of choral and orchestral music honoring the past while looking ahead to the future. Join us as we celebrate twenty years of harmony, artistry, and community with the Central Oregon Mastersingers. TICKETS AVAILABLE HERE

NOW AND EVERMORE Music for the Church On Sunday, May 3, at 3:00 pm, the choirs of Nativity Lutheran Church, Bend Church, and members of the Central Oregon Mastersingers will join in a celebration of great hymns and anthems of the church.  The forty-voice choir will present an array of several beloved and timeless hymns of Christianity.  The audience will be invited to join the choir in singing additional favorite hymns at the end of the concert. The concert will be held at Nativity Lutheran Church.  Admission is free; donations will be gratefully accepted and will go toward supporting the music ministry of Nativity Lutheran Church.

Next Taizé: May 7th! 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! 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 Find us on Facebook

DON'T MISS THE SECRET GARDEN!   Open Space Event Studios 5/8/26-5/17/26 Ticket Link Presented by BEAT Children's Theatre, this adaptation by Tim Kelly of the literary classic you’ve loved for years tells the story of Mary Lennox, known as a difficult child, sent to live at her uncle’s estate in England after her parents pass away. Misselthwaite Manor turns out to be a gloomy fortress. Her uncle is rarely home, and his young son, Colin, never leaves his room, convinced he’s an incurable invalid. To her surprise, Mary discovers a strange walled garden that has been locked up for years. With the assistance of Dickon, the gardener’s apprentice, Mary brings the garden back to life and discovers Dickon’s amazing ability to communicate with animals. The garden seems to have a wonderful, magical effect on all who come into it, allowing Mary to help restore Colin to health and to reunite him with his father. This version also introduces the endearing Sowerby family, who add much laughter and love to this touching story. Take time to smell the roses.

“Mostly Low” A Recital for Low Flutes and Piano (with some regular flute thrown in) Saturday, May 9, 2026 7:00PM Wille Hall, COCC Campus Free admission Program Flyer A trio of Central Oregon musicians presents an evening of “Mostly Low” flute and piano music.  The program features the smooth, sultry voices of the alto and bass flutes (with some “regular flute” thrown in).  This unique performance is not to be missed! Works range from contemporary to jazz to popular. The trio will premiere a work by Central Oregon composer and flutist Mikaela Storm, in addition to Gary Ruppert’s arrangements of music by Chick Corea and Karl Suessdorf.  Program Highlights Ian Clarke’s “Maya” is a dreamy piece contrasting haunting melodies with challenging technical passages.  Carolyn Morris’s “Forest Over Sea”, inspired by the nature of Victoria, Australia where lush forests overlook crystal clear ocean waters, features alto and bass flute, and evokes images of peaceful woodlands, soaring birds, and frolicing dolphins. “Evening Star” by Mikaela Storm is a beautiful and intriguing tribute to the planet Venus.  Gary Ruppert puts his own spin on Bob James’ alto flute and piano arrangement of “Moonlight in Vermont”, a Karl Suessdorf song made famous by Frank Sinatra.  Gary’s arrangement of Chick Corea’s “Crystal Silence” for two altos and piano is wistful and stirring.  Tim Hagen’s “Nocturne Lullaby” for alto flute and piano is a meditation on the folk tune “Danny Boy” written in memory of his mother, and Jennifer Stevenson’s “I Prayed for No Rain” is another lullaby beautifully adapted for alto flute duet.  Finally, “Au-Dela du Temps” by Yuko Uebayashi explores temporality and different types of light, with plaintive introspection and, ultimately, exuberant joy.  Musicians  Lisa Hakesley, Gary Ruppert, and Ryan Zwahlen perform in numerous groups in Central Oregon and beyond, including the Central Oregon Symphony, the Cascade Winds Symphonic Band, the Bend Pops Orchestra, and are participants and soloists with many area chamber orchestras and ensembles.

Sing the POPS – A Patriotic Celebration of America’s 250th Anniversary!   The Cascade Chorale, the Central Oregon community choir, invites the community to experience Sing the POPS, a vibrant and uplifting concert celebrating America’s 250th anniversary. Under the direction of acclaimed conductor James W. Knox, this special program will take audiences on a musical journey through beloved American classics and patriotic favorites. Sing the POPS will feature a dynamic selection of choral arrangements that highlight the spirit, history, and diversity of American music. From timeless patriotic anthems to lively popular favorites, the program promises an engaging and memorable experience for audiences of all ages. The Cascade Chorale is one of Central Oregon’s premier choral ensembles, known for its artistic excellence and commitment to bringing high-quality choral music to the region. Comprised of talented volunteer singers from across the community, the Chorale has built a strong reputation for inspiring performances that both entertain and uplift. Under the leadership of James W. Knox, the ensemble continues to expand its repertoire and deepen its impact, connecting audiences through the power of music. The concert is free to the public with a suggested $20 donation at the door. Concert Details: Friday, May 16, at 7 p.m.  Saturday, May 17, at 3 p.m.  First Presbyterian Church, 230 NE 9th Street, Bend, OR 97701 For more information, please contact: Marilyn Elliott, Cascade Chorale Association 541-550-0010, cascadechorale@gmail.com, cascadechorale.org

Bend Pops Orchestra Presents: Popspourri! Join us for our spring concert! We have an eclectic mix this go round — a veritable “potpourri” of musical goodness! From the popular music genre we have "Journey’s Greatest Hits" and Gloria Estefan’s "Let’s Get Loud". From the land of movie music, we offer**"How to Train Your Dragon",** John Williams’ ever-popular "Cantina Band" from Star Wars, and**"Somewhere in Time",** from the 1980 film of the same title starring Christopher Reeve and Jane Seymour. We’re also carrying over our winter concert hits with the video game theme "Super Mario Bros 3 – Overworld".Rounding out the mix is Soon Hee Newbold’s majestic"Angel City", and Jeffrey Bishop’s mysterious "Aethelinda"(meaning “dragon” in Old English). The highlight of our program will be the premiere of a work commissioned by the Pops from composer Dr. Jennifer Stevenson, written especially for the orchestra, entitled "Return to Joy". Sunday, June 7, 2:00PM Mountain View High School 2755 NE 27th St, Bend As always, admission is free! (Donations gratefully accepted.)

Get your Tickets: The Medium and Die Fledermaus! OperaBend is thrilled to announce the final two productions of its 2025–26 season, showcasing a striking contrast of operatic storytelling, from haunting psychological drama to effervescent comedy. OperaBend is proud to host Ping & Woof Opera’s chillingly intimate production of Gian Carlo Menotti’s The Medium—a gripping psychological thriller filled with eerie beauty and emotional depth. This powerful work explores themes of deception, guilt, and the supernatural, drawing audiences into an unsettling and unforgettable experience. Performances will take place at Wille Hall on the COCC Campus: Saturday, May 23rd at 7:00 PM Sunday, May 24th at 3:00 PM Admission is Donation-Based. Reserve your seat at: https://www.operabend.org/the-medium  To conclude the season, OperaBend invites audiences to a dazzling MainStage Finale: Johann Strauss Jr.’s beloved operetta, Die Fledermaus. Bursting with champagne-soaked comedy, mistaken identities, and lilting waltzes, this timeless masterpiece promises an evening of laughter, elegance, and musical brilliance.  Performances will take place at Mountain View High School: Friday, June 19th at 7:00 PM Sunday, June 21st at 3:00 PM Tickets on sale now at: https://www.operabend.org/die-fledermaus  Sung in English and conducted by Michael Gesme, this vibrant production will feature OperaBend’s Principal Artists, Chorus, and Orchestra, along with special guest performers from the Central Oregon School of Ballet! #MeetOpera!  Don't miss these sensational and unforgettable shows-see you there!

Raise the Baton! Save the Date!  Saturday, July 18, 2026 at 5 PM Unitarian Universalist Fellowship of Central Oregon in Bend Raise the Baton is Sunriver Music Festival's premier fundraising party of the year! This lively event raises vital funds for Young Artists Scholarships and the Festival's world-class concerts. Hosted by Maestro Brett Mitchell, the event features performances by advanced Young Artists Scholarship recipients.   Tickets Available Here ----------------------------------------------- Sunriver Music Festival is a year-round nonprofit presenting world-class orchestral performances and supporting 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.

Make Your Plans for the Sunriver Music Festival! August 10-20 - “America@250” Summer Festival We're excited to welcome you to the 49th summer of Sunriver Music Festival August 10-20, 2026 in Bend & Sunriver, Oregon!   As America celebrates 250 years in 2026, we honor one of its greatest gifts to the world: music. The 49th season programming, curated by Artistic Director & Conductor Brett Mitchell, will feature eclectic works by American composers - Aaron Copland, Samuel Barber, William Grant Still, Joan Tower, Kevin Puts, Edgar Meyer and John Williams - alongside favorites by Beethoven, Bach, Mozart, Haydn, Schumann, Mendelssohn and more.     The Summer Festival opens August 10 at Sunriver Resort's historic Great Hall and closes August 20 at the iconic Tower Theatre in downtown Bend. Four classical concerts, a pops concert and a family concert will be presented. Featured artists include pianist Michelle Cann, violinists William Hagen and Tessa Lark, bass-baritone Timothy Jones, and the Central Oregon Mastersingers. Full details at sunrivermusic.org. ----------------------------------------------- Sunriver Music Festival is a year-round nonprofit presenting world-class orchestral performances and supporting 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.

High Desert Chamber Music Spotlight Chamber Players Available for Private Events!     High Desert Chamber Music (HDCM) is pleased to announce that its Spotlight Chamber Players are now available for hire for private and community events throughout Central Oregon.   Formed as part of HDCM’s educational initiatives, the Spotlight Chamber Players features talented young musicians who study the art of chamber music performance through the year and perform regularly at HDCM events. These select ensembles perform varied chamber music programs and bring the artistry of live classical music to a wide range of settings.   The ensembles are available to perform at receptions, corporate gatherings, community celebrations, and other special events, offering elegant background music or featured performances that highlight the beauty and intimacy of chamber music.   Those interested in hearing the ensembles can catch the Spotlight Chamber Players performing during April’s First Friday Art Walk at Mockingbird Gallery, offering the public a chance to experience these talented young musicians.   “This program gives our young musicians valuable performance opportunities while sharing live music with the broader community,” says Executive Director Isabelle Senger. “It’s a meaningful way to support emerging artists while enhancing special occasions with live chamber music.”   Hiring the Spotlight Chamber Players not only adds a unique musical element to events but also helps support HDCM’s educational programs for young musicians in Central Oregon.   For more information about hiring the Spotlight Chamber Players, visit HighDesertChamberMusic.com or contact High Desert Chamber Music at info@highdesertchambermusic.com.   Photos Attached: HDCM 2025-26 Spotlight Chamber Players   Further information: Contact:  541.306.3988 / info@highdesertchambermusic.com / 961 NW Brooks St. (Downtown Bend)

Help Create the Largest Virtual Choir of the National Anthem!     Help celebrate the 250th anniversary of the United States! (BTW, I, Barb, have participated in a couple of these and they're FUN!) The Sheckler Virtual Choir – The Star-Spangled Banner Join the project here: https://www.harrisonsheckler.com/starspangledbannervirtualchoir The goal is simple but ambitious: to bring together thousands of voices and create the largest virtual choir performance of the National Anthem. Singers of all ages and experience levels are welcome. This project continues a series of virtual choir collaborations I’ve led over the past several years, including: You’ll Never Walk Alone https://youtu.be/6gpoJNv5dlQ?si=WuMdwu6DyJJasz3q Take Me Out to the Ball Game https://youtu.be/MlwII9fQlwU?si=_9A4uZB3oUHZwVMz Gloria Gaynor – Talkin' 'Bout Jesus https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=K1CgNGchye4 These projects have brought together singers from across the country and around the world. For this one, we hope to make something even bigger—a massive national chorus celebrating America’s 250th birthday. Who Can Participate Everyone is welcome to join: • Individuals • Families • Choirs • Students and teachers • Community groups You may sing the melody or any SATB harmony part using the score and guide track provided on the website. How to Participate Visit the project page: https://www.harrisonsheckler.com/starspangledbannervirtualchoir Download the vocal score and guide track Record yourself singing the entire piece while listening with headphones Upload your video using the submission form on the website Additional practice tracks for each vocal part will be uploaded soon. Submission deadline: June 15, 2026 The completed video will premiere before July 4, 2026. If you enjoy singing, I hope you’ll join us and help create the largest virtual choir performance of “The Star-Spangled Banner.” Even if you don’t sing yourself, please feel free to share this invitation with choirs, schools, music teachers, and friends. The more voices we gather, the more powerful the final performance will be.

SUNRIVER MUSIC FESTIVAL NEWS!     May 1 - Young Artists Scholarship Applications Due Throughout its 30-year history, Sunriver Music Festival’s Young Artists Scholarship program has awarded almost $750,000 in scholarships to exceptional young classical music students from throughout Central Oregon. Advanced students age 11-24 visit sunrivermusic.org/young-artists-scholarships today for information and to apply. For the rest of us, plan to attend the free Young Artists Scholarship Recital on June 5 in Sunriver to be inspired by the future of music. July 18 - Raise the Baton Fundraising Party Raise the Baton is the Festival’s premier fundraiser of the year and is hosted by Maestro Brett Mitchell! At this lively event, vital funds are raised for the Young Artists Scholarships and Sunriver Music Festival’s world-class concerts. Held at the beautiful Unitarian Universalist Fellowship of Central Oregon in Bend, tickets on sale April 1 at sunrivermusic.org. ______________________________________ Sunriver Music Festival is a year-round nonprofit presenting world-class orchestral performances and supporting 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.

Come Say Hello!   April 10 - May 3, 2026 Touring Central Oregon Yes, yours truly is getting back on stage! Come say hello at a performance of Into The Breeches, presented by Ellipse Theatre Community.  Cheers! Barb Tickets Here!

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