Music Events2025-04-29T10:38:17+00:00

Music Events

Piccolo Spoleto music events celebrate diverse genres and traditions, including the Early Music Series with historic works by composers like Vivaldi and Bach, A World of Jewish Culture honoring rich heritage, the Young Artists Series at the College of Charleston highlighting collegiate talent, and Youth Music performances by young musicians at exceptional venues.

Athens Chamber SingersThe Athens Chamber Singers – The Athens Chamber Singers of Athens, Georgia return to Piccolo Spoleto to weave a spell with Celtic folksongs from the Isle of Man, arranged for choir and pedal harp.

Performance: Saturday, May 24 at 5:00pm
Venue: Circular Congregational Church, 150 Meeting Street
Admission: Donations accepted at the door

Step into the captivating world of Ballads to Battle Cries, a beautiful tribute curated and performed by Tonya Nicole, recently voted Charleston SC R&B Artist of the Year for 2024.

If you have never seen a Tonya Nicole performance, please be prepared for an experience you will never forget. Tonya Nicole is a powerhouse Jazz & R&B songstress who delights audiences with her on stage allure, embodying a timeless, old-school elegance and charm that truly sets her apart as a performer. Join her along with her dynamic 7 piece band, as they celebrate an icon.

“Ballads to Battle Cries: The Artistry of Nina Simone” is an electrifying tribute that immerses you in the soul-stirring evolution of one of music’s greatest legends. From Nina Simone’s heartfelt love songs and tender ballads to her bold, revolutionary anthems that ignited change, this show takes you on an unforgettable journey through her artistry and activism. Prepare to be moved, inspired, and empowered as each song reverberates with passion and purpose. Don’t miss this stunning celebration of Nina Simone’s timeless impact—an experience that will leave you feeling both uplifted and ready to stand strong.

Performance: Thursday, June 5 at 6:30pm
Venue: Circular Congregational Church, 150 Meeting Street
Admission: $35 PURCHASE TICKETS

Performances: May 25 at 3:00pm and June 1 at 3:00pm
Venue: Gage Hall, 4 Archdale Street
Admission: $20 General Admission; $10 Student PURCHASE TICKETS

The Bells of Christ Church, from Savannah, GA, is continuing its mission of musical outreach by holding its 20th annual tour this June including a concert for Piccolo Spoleto! Ringing over 150 full-length concerts to date, the choir has performed concerts across the southeastern, northeastern, Atlantic, midwestern, Appalachian, and lower southern states. The Bells of Christ Church is an auditioned high school, college-age choir ringing top-level bell repertoire and is now in its 26th year.

One of the most frequent comments shared by concert goers is, “Wow, If I had known that you were this good and this entertaining, I would have asked more people to come!” Ringing on 12 octaves of handbells and hand chimes, Mark Williams, the director, is the choir’s founder.

An interesting history of handbells is included in the program including their historic connection to English roots as well as a traveling hands-on bell museum CLICK HERE.

Performance: Saturday, June 7 at 11:00am
Venue: Circular Congregational Church, 150 Meeting Street
Admission: Donations accepted at the door

Tom HicksFriends from the College of Charleston and the Charleston Symphony Orchestra come together to perform one of the greatest works in the chamber music repertoire.

Tom Hicks, (the new Director of Piano and Artistic Director of the International Piano Series at the College of Charleston) is joined by Yuriy Becker (Artistic Director of the Charleston Symphony Orchestra), Alex Boissonnault, Seth Van Embden, and Benjamin Mekinulov to tackle this dramatic and emotionally charged work.

Composed in 1864-5, the quintet features sweeping melodies, rich textures, and showcases virtuosity around the ensemble. The strings will also perform Borodin’s ever-popular Nocturne from the second string quartet, loved by all for its expressive melodies and lush harmonies.

Don’t miss this opportunity to hear the greatest music performed by friends and for friends at the Charleston Library Society!

Performance: Tuesday, May 27 at 6:00pm
Venue: Charleston Library Society, 164 King Street
Admission: $30 PURCHASE TICKETS

The Charleston Gospel Choir is pleased to present a spring performance entitled A Tribute to Sergeant Isaac Woodard as part of Piccolo Spoleto 2025 on Saturday, May 24 at 6 p.m. at Second Presbyterian Church, 342 Meeting Street, Charleston, SC.

Sgt. Isaac Woodard was an African-American World War II veteran whose 1946 beating and maiming, hours after being discharged from the U.S. Army, sparked national outrage and galvanized the Civil Rights Movement in the United States. The impact of Woodard’s legacy is detailed in the 2019 book, Unexampled Courage by Richard Gergel who will narrate the evening.

Through song and narration, the Choir will pay homage to Woodard’s legacy in performance of moving gospel and R&B standards including To Be Young Gifted and Black, I Know Where I’ve Been, and Lord Keep Me Day by Day with narration by Richard Gergel whose 2019 book Unexampled Courage: The Blinding of Sgt. Isaac Woodard and the Awakening of America inspired this event.

Performance: Saturday, May 24 at 6:00pm
Venue: Second Presbyterian Church, 342 Meeting Street, Charleston
Admission: $15-$30 PURCHASE TICKETS

Charleston Men’s Chorus Memorial Day Concert – Join the Charleston Men’s Chorus for a patriotic tribute to the brave men and women who have served our country. This powerful Memorial Day concert features a selection of patriotic anthems, uplifting spirituals, and moving choral arrangements that honor the sacrifices of our nation’s heroes. Held in the historic First (Scots) Presbyterian Church at 12 p.m., this annual tradition brings together the community for an afternoon of reflection, gratitude, and inspiring music.

Don’t miss this heartfelt performance that celebrates the true meaning of Memorial Day through song.

Performance:  Monday, May 26 at 12:00pm, First (Scots) Presbyterian Church, 53 Meeting Street
Admission: General Admission $25; Students $10; Children 10 and under FREE, PURCHASE TICKETS

Calling all Yankee Doodles! Come a-riding on a pony to America’s First Museum, The Charleston Museum, to discover the history of one of America’s most famous songs. After diving into Revolutionary history and phrases, put your own spin on this American classic by rewriting the versus in modern language.
Date: May 25 at 1:00pm
Venue: Charleston Museum, 360 Meeting Street
Admission: Free, Reservations required RESERVE HERE

Charleston Musical Heritage Series featuring music of Charleston’s history, from gospel to Gershwin, has been a Festival favorite for nine years. This year the series has expanded to include concerts featuring artists from The Sound of Charleston performing gospel, jazz, and Gershwin selections reflective of this city’s rich musical heritage.  All concerts at Circular Congregational Church, 150 Meeting Street. Admission: $16-$28, PURCHASE TICKETS

The Sound of Charleston – Now in its 15th season, The Sound of Charleston continues to be a Piccolo Spoleto favorite. The program highlights Charleston’s rich musical heritage, from gospel spirituals to the music of George Gershwin, light classics of the St. Cecelia Society, Civil War camp songs and jazz standards. Performers include Ann Caldwell, former Mayor John Tecklenburg, the Bright Family Singers, and a host of other Lowcountry legends.

Gershwin & Jazz – This special Piccolo Spoleto concert will feature an entire 75 minute program of Jazz and the iconic music of George Gershwin. Come hear former Charleston Mayor John Tecklenburg on piano and Jon Philips on saxophone play jazz and explain the important role that art form played in the city’s history. Then be enthralled by vocalists Diamond Tyler and Ramelle Brooks singing highlights from Gershwin’s immortal opera “Porgy and Bess”. The program concludes with Gershwin’s iconic “Rhapsody in Blue” performed by pianists Ghadi Shayban and Maida Libkin. Don’t miss this perennial Festival favorite.

Oh Happy Day Gospel Music with Special Guest Ann Caldwell – Gospel music and spirituals are deeply ingrained in Charleston’s history. Over half of all slaves imported to the United States arrived right here at the port of Charleston. It is said that the slaves used spirituals to “sing themselves happy”, even while living and working in servitude. Local gospel legends The Bright Family and Singers, along with Lowcountry Music Hall of Fame member Ann Caldwell will present an emotional and entertaining program of gospel music. Be prepared to clap your hands, stomp your feet and join in this joyous 75 minute musical celebration.

Barbershop 101 –  Charleston Sound Chorus is an award winning women’s chorus in only its second year of existence. Comprised of women from all over the Low Country, the chorus will present an interactive concert of barbershop-styled music featuring songs of Irving Berlin to contemporary Broadway arrangements sung by chorus and quartets. Audience members will learn what makes barbershop-styled music unique and will have a chance to participate in singing “tags” with the chorus. You’ll come away with an understanding and appreciation for one of the truly American originating art forms.

Performance: May 31 at 3:00pm
Venue: Cathedral of St. Luke & St. Paul, 126 Coming Street
Admission: $15 General Admission; $10 Children 12 and under  PURCHASE TICKETS

  • Agnus Dei-Samuel Barber, a choral setting of his Adagio for Strings (Op 10)
  • Lux Aeterna-William Elgar, a choral setting of Nimrod from his Enigma Variations
  • Mass in G-Franz Schubert, with strings and 3 soloists (soprano, tenor, bass)
  • The Road Home- Stephen Paulus, with soprano solo

Performance: June 6 at 7:00pm
Venue: Grace Church Cathedral, 98 Wentworth Street
Admission: Ticketing for this event will be available soon.

Classical Pride Charleston is a celebration of LGBTQIA+ community in Classical Music. It will feature LGBTQIA+ composers both past and present, as well as performers who identify with or provide allyship for the LGBTQIA+ community.

This year will feature Aaron Copland’s “Appalachian Spring.”

With:
The Classical Pride Chamber Orchestra
The Unitarian Church of Charleston’s Chancel Choir
The Palmetto Peace Choir

Performance: Saturday, June 7 at 7:30pm
Venue: Unitarian Church Charleston, 4 Archdale Street
Admission: $30; $25 for Students PURCHASE TICKETS

Creation by Dan Forrest.

One of this century’s most prominent composers, Dan Forrest captures the beauty of the world about us, and transcribes his perception into this magnificent piece for chorus and chamber orchestra. The score draws from sources as varied as sacred and secular literature, art, and the environment, tempered through the prism of his personal experience with the world’s beauty. The listener will hear the mystery of the world at the dawn of time, and follow Forrest’s interpretation of the introduction of light, the greening of earth, the filling of oceans and sky with life, and the emergence of humans on earth.
Performance: Sunday, June 8 at 4:00pm
Venue: Circular Congregational Church, 150 Meeting Street
Admission: Free, donations accepted

Come join the fun. Doors open at 7:15. Beginners join the workshop at 7:30. Contra is easy to learn, no partner needed.

Dance to live music from Tea and Whiskey and the expert calling of Chris Hernandez!

Date: May 30 at 7:30pm
Venue: Circular Congregational Church, Upper Lance Hall
Address: 150 Meeting Street
Admission: $15, PURCHASE TICKETS

A major part of Piccolo Spoleto since 1986 and still going strong, the Early Music Series  brings together the great musical  masterpieces of the past with the amazing acoustics and architecture of historic Charleston. We are privileged to be hosted by Old Saint Mary’s Catholic Church.

This year we have the NC Carolina Baroque Orchestra Chamber Players, The Spartina Consort, Guitarist Christopher Teves, members of the Charleston Symphony and the return of ensemble Brio featuring acclaimed countertenor Jose Lemos, Danny Mallon, Mary Anne Ballard & Steve Rosenberg .

Venue: St. Mary’s Catholic Church
Address: 95 Hasell Street
All concerts 3 pm – one hour in length.  Admission: $30, PURCHASE TICKETS

Guitar Series at Circular Congregational Church, 150 Meeting Street

Christopher Laughlin, Classical, Flamenco, and Fingerstyle Guitar – Classical, flamenco, and fingerstyle guitar virtuoso Christopher Laughlin performs a wonderfully varied program, including timeless classics by Albeniz and Tarrega, fiery flamenco works by Paco de Lucia and Paco Pena, and inventive arrangements of popular music for guitar and special effects by Tears for Fears, Guns ‘N Roses, U2, Bill Withers, and more!

Admission: $25 PURCHASE TICKETS

Alejandro Rowinsky –  Classical guitarist, composer, arranger and actor. He auditioned and was selected by the Disney Company to be part of the show “Elena’s Royal Welcome” at Cinderella Castle, Magic Kingdom, Walt Disney World, and from there he toured throughout the USA, playing at prestigious venues, Festivals, Theaters, Films, TV series and commercials.

Admission: $20 PURCHASE TICKETS

Gullah Collective – Join Gullah Collective for a captivating live performance during Piccolo Spoleto on June 7th, as they present Welcome to the Lowcountry. This dynamic show blends the soulful sounds of the Lowcountry with vibrant jazz elements, infused with roots, gospel, R&B, and West African rhythms. Featuring some of the finest musicians from Charleston, SC, the collective will take you on a musical journey that celebrates the rich cultural heritage and diverse influences of the region. Don’t miss this unforgettable evening of music that honors the heart and soul of the Lowcountry.

Howe Bell Tower Thematic Concert Series.  Join us for a program of rich, celebratory music from the Carillon – a 59-bell instrument located at the top of the 100′ tall Howie Bell Tower. “Music resonating from the depths of the earth.” Each program is music of a different theme. Music performed by Michael Varnadore, carillonneur on the 59-bell outdoor instrument. Rain or Shine. On the campus of The Citadel, 171 Moultrie Street.  All concerts at 11:00am.  Outdoor seating – rain or shine.  Chairs on a first come basis or bring a blanket and sit under the great oak trees.  Free to attend.

  • Tuesday, May 27
  • Thursday, May 29
  • Saturday, May 31 – Music for Children
  • Tuesday, June 3
  • Thursday, June 5
  • Saturday, June 7

Two of the Charleston Symphony’s newest members, clarinetist Hank Landrum and cellist Ben Mekinulov, are joined by pianist Ana Hamilton for an evening of unforgettable chamber music. The program features Beethoven’s lively and charming Gassenhauer Trio, Op. 11, a youthful work full of wit and brilliant melodies, and Brahms’ deeply expressive Clarinet Trio, Op. 114, a late masterpiece known for its rich, autumnal beauty. Join us for a celebration of two towering composers and the intimate artistry of chamber music.

Performance: May 27 at 5:30pm
Venue: Cannon Street Arts Center, 134 Cannon Street
Admission: $25 Ticketing for this event will be available soon.
The In-Between ensemble features soprano Jill Terhaar Lewis, with jazz musicians Robert Lewis (saxophone) and Gerald Gregory (piano). Together they collaborate for a one-of-a-kind performance of original compositions and arrangements by the ensemble members creating an eclectic mix of genres, opening communication between the worlds of classical and jazz music resulting in a truly unique chamber music experience. The concert program entitled “Love Sublime” will illuminate the facets of love through song and include new premiers of original songs as well as some additional favorites carefully curated for this festival.
Performance: May 29 at 6:00pm
Venue: Cannon Street Arts Center, 134 Cannon Street
Admission: $15 PURCHASE TICKETS

Low Country singer-songwriters Danielle Howle, Sam Rae and Mike Kaufman, along with rapper/singer Sxvxnt (pronounced Savant) will present an evening of music. The evening is sponsored by Awendaw Green.

On the heels of last year’s critically acclaimed “Journey of a Song,” Danielle Howle, Sam Rae, and Mike Kaufman return to Piccolo Spoleto to expand the musical and poetic palette with the addition of Charleston City Paper’s 2023 Hip Hop Act of the Year, Sxvxnt.

Performance: June 6 at 7:30pm
Venue: Circular Church, 150 Meeting Street
Admission: $20 Advance; $25 at door

Keys for a Cause- Benefiting Meals on Wheels of Charleston This dueling piano event is music with a mission. Help us as we battle senior hunger. A unique and fun entertainment experience featuring your requested songs performed by some of the coolest and funniest piano players anywhere. Enjoy beer, wine, non-alcoholic beverages, and some amazing lite bites from Swig-N-Swine.

Sing-along and join in the fun. In fact, don’t be surprised to find yourself and your friends as part of the act as the dueling pianists bring volunteers up on stage for some good-natured jokes. Too shy for the stage? Just sit in the back and cheer! The crowd is active and in a good mood thanks to the talented and humorous key-ticklers and maybe a little liquid courage from the bar.

Venue: Meals on Wheels of Charleston, 259 Meeting Street
Admission: $35 (Early Bird through 4/15); $45, PURCHASE TICKETS

The Kleztonians – Have you ever heard music so engaging that you couldn’t resist moving your body and within minutes you find yourself jumping up and down to the beat? The Kleztonians provide this phenomena at every event. Comprised of several of the finest, most accomplished musicians in the Southeastern US, The Kleztonians fuse Eastern European music with Hip-Hop, Jazz and Progressive Rock to create an inspiring experience for all listeners.

Performance: Wednesday, June 4 at 6:00pm
Venue: Cannon Street Arts Center, 134 Cannon Street
Admission: Ticketing for this event will be available soon.

Join Lowcountry Voices as they present Connections  on Sunday, May 25, 2025, at 5:00 PM at historic Morris Street Baptist Church (25 Morris Street, Charleston, SC). This powerful performance marks the grand finale of their 12th season and a send-off before their summer tour to Barbados.

Connections is a vibrant musical journey that explores the deep cultural ties between the Carolinas and Barbados. Through soul-stirring song and dynamic storytelling, Lowcountry Voices invites audiences to experience a celebration of heritage, unity, and shared history. Don’t miss this moving tribute to the rhythms, resilience, and roots that connect us all.

Performance: Sunday, May 25 at 5:00pm
Venue: Morris Street Baptist Church, 25 Morris Street
Admission: Goodwill Offering (cash only)
Memorial Day Concerts at the Citadel
Sunday May 25th at 4:00pm at the Summerall Chapel at the Citadel
Join us for a full slate of familiar tunes to celebrate Memorial Day Weekend. Music performed by Michael Varnadore, Chapel Organist, on the 100 Rank Zimmer Pipe Organ. “One of the 3 largest pipe organs in our state.”
171 Moultrie Street, Charleston SC 29409
For more information please call or text 843-813-3007
Monday May 26th at 11:00am at the Howie Bell Tower at the Citadel
Join us for a program of rich celebratory music from the Carillon – a 59-bell instrument located at the top of the 100′ tall Howie Bell Tower. “Music resonating from the depths of the earth.” Music performed by Michael Varnadore, carillonneur on the 59-bell outdoor instrument. Rain or Shine.
171 Moultrie Street, Charleston SC 29409
For more information please call or text 843-813-3007
Performance: Sunday, May 25 at 5:00pm
Venue: Morris Street Baptist Church, 25 Morris Street
Admission: Free, donations accepted
Now an art form, The Mt. Zion Spiritual Singers performs a true depiction of the old unarranged Negro spiritual songs as was heard back in the rural areas of Charleston in the 1930s/40s.

Performance: Monday, May 26 and Friday, May 30 at 8:00pm
Venue: Mt. Zion AME Church, 5 Glebe Street
Admission: $ 25 PURCHASE TICKETS

Music at Noon at Circular Congregational Church, 150 Meeting Street

Admission: FREE

Monday, May 26
Lime and the Coconuts

Tuesday, May 27
Alva Anderson

Wednesday May 28
Peter Kfoury and Delia Charkier

Thursday, May 29
The Top Notes 8-Hand Piano Ensemble

The Top Notes Piano Ensemble performs music arranged for 8-hand piano enlivened with wit, humor and commentary. The musicians, all life-long pianists and music educators, have crafted a repertoire that ranges from popular songs to classical pieces that have delighted audiences throughout South Carolina. Hearing four pianists playing two pianos at once and watching the choreography of 40 fingers is a rare and exciting musical experience.

Friday, May 30
Ann Caldwell

This performance features acapella arrangements of the spirituals and other popular songs.

Monday, June 2
Jonathan Kammer

Tuesday, June 3
Mike Fritz Jazz Quartet

The Mike Fritz Quartet specializes in the Great American Songbook – but they are so much more! Led by vocalist/pianist Mike Fritz, this highly-acclaimed quartet can easily navigate the far reaches of American jazz, whether it’s swing, stride, bebop, modal, fusion, or jazz funk.

Wednesday, June 4
Brentwood Children’s Choir

This Nashville-area United Methodist Youth Choir sings songs about peace, God’s love, and unity through a blend of traditional and modern choral music.

Thursday, June 5
Carson

Friday, June 6
Leah Suarez

Presenting a jazz/blended concert for all to enjoy

The New South Festival Singers, created as Gwinnett Festival Singers and known from 1998-2015 as William Baker Festival Singers Atlanta, have performed to capacity audiences at Piccolo Spoleto annually since 1989. Now led by Music Director Lynn Swanson, the 40-voice Atlanta-based chorale will sing classics by Brahms, Sibelius and Faure, along with works by contemporary African American composer, including Linda Twine and Rosephayne Powell, in addition to their signature spirituals and gospel songs. The Festival Singers have been featured on national radio programs including “The First Art,” “The Sounds of Majesty” and National Public Radio’s “Performance Today.” Their two dozen nationally released recordings have brought national acclaim, including their newest album, “Legacies of Light,” recorded live at Piccolo Spoleto in 2023.

Performance: Monday, May 26 at 3:00pm
Venue: Circular Congregational Church, 150 Meeting Street
Admission: Free to attend, donations accepted

The sweet voices of Palmetto Youth Choir will serenade you with their uplifting concert, “Sing Out, Shine On!” Enjoy a variety of cheerful songs, including Here Comes the Sun, Be the Light, Iko Iko, Lovely Day and many more. This choral music repertoire, performed by passionate youth voices from the Charleston area, will bring a sense of peace, love and harmony to the world by sharing the power of positive, hopeful music. Come get a sparkling dose of joy and musical magic to boost your spirits and ignite your heart. The choir will be conducted by Danielle Loveless, and accompanied by Bill Gesin, with artistic direction by Regina Ruopoli.
Performance: May 30 at 6:30pm
Venue: Unitarian Church in Charleston, 4 Archdale Street
Admission: Pay What You Wish at the Door

Experience the magic and power of Celine Dion’s greatest hits in The Power of Love: A Celine Dion Tribute featuring the incredible Heather Rice. With a full band, stunning vocals, and heartfelt performances, this show will transport you through the timeless songs of one of music’s most legendary voices.

Join us for a night of unforgettable music, from “My Heart Will Go On” to “Because You Loved Me,” performed by an all-star lineup of musicians.

Performance Dates:

    • June 2 at 7:30pm General Admission Only
    • June 3 at 7:30pm General Admission and VIP Experience option with preferred seating and exclusive post-show reception with the cast.

Venue: Circular Congregational Church, 150 Meeting Street
Admission: $25 General Admission; $45 VIP (June 3 only), PURCHASE TICKETS

2025 Scottish Performing Arts Classic

All events take place at South Carolina Society Hall, 72 Meeting Street

PURCHASE TICKETS

A Solo Scottish Harp Concert by Maeve Gilchrist – Maeve Gilchrist is described by one critic as “a phenomenal harp player who can make her instrument ring with unparalleled purity,” Maeve Gilchrist has taken the Celtic (lever) harp to new levels of performance and visibility.  Friday, June 6 at 1:00pm.  Admission: $50 PURCHASE TICKETS

2025 Scottish Performing Arts Classic – Piobaireachd (Highland Bagpipes) – The 2025 Joseph McDonald Memorial Prize for Piobaireachd.  Piobaireachd or ceòl mòr is an artistic music genre associated primarily with the Scottish Highlands that is characterised by extended compositions with a melodic theme and elaborate formal variations. Strictly meaning ‘piping’ in Scottish Gaelic, piobaireachd has for some four centuries been the classical music of the great Highland bagpipe.  A more general term is Scottish Gaelic: ceòl mòr meaning the ‘great music’ (to distinguish this complex extended art-music from the more popular Scottish music such as dances, reels, marches, and strathspeys, which are called ceòl beag or ‘little music’).

Four of the finest pipers in the world have been invited to compete at the Classic.  Three of the competitors have already won the Clasp to the Gold Medal at the Northern Meeting in Scotland, thought to be the premium prize in the world for piping.  Friday, June 6 at 5:00pm.  Admission: $30 PURCHASE TICKETS

2025 Scottish Performing Arts Classic – Clarsach (Harp) – 2025 Princess Margaret of the Isles Memorial Clarsach Competition.  The clarsach was the primary instrument of the Gaelic courts until the introduction of the bagpipe in the 15th century and remained central to Gaelic courtly music until the mid-18th century. It also played a key role in the music of the early Celtic church. Harpers were a highly-trained class of professionals who spent years perfecting their art and were held in esteem second only to that of the filidh (or clan poet). There is a difference between playing on a harp with pedals and a harp that does not have pedals. The instruments use different fundamental hand techniques. One is not better than the other, just like piano is not better than organ. The main difference: Repertoire.  Four outstanding harpists from as far way as Ireland, Canada, and the USA will perform.  Saturday, June 7 at 1:00pm.  Admission: $30 PURCHASE TICKETS

2025 Scottish Performing Arts Classic – Scottish Fiddle: 2025 Dan R. MacDonald Memorial Fiddle Competition.  Scottish fiddling may be distinguished from other folk fiddling styles by its particular precision of execution and energy in the delivery, for example, the rendering of the dotted-quaver/semi-quaver rhythmic patterns, commonly used in the Strathspey. Christine Martin, in her Traditional Scottish Fiddling Players Guide, discusses the techniques of “hack bowing”, “the Scotch snap”, and “snap bowing”. These techniques contrast quite sharply with the most common bowing patterns of Irish fiddling. The style has a very large repertoire consisting of a great variation of rhythms and key signatures.  Four outstanding fiddlers from southern Scotland, the Shetland Islands of Scotland, Maine, and California will compete for the Dan R MacDonald Prize.  Saturday, June 7 at 4:00pm.  Admission: $30 PURCHASE TICKETS

West/East is the first two acts of a five act Musical Thought Experiment titled A’Mazing: 5 Days Out of Time.   This thought experiment was inspired by the Sumerian’s addition of 5 days of celebration to their 360 day calendar.  The music of West/East  is composed by Mary Councill.  The lyrics are written by Jeremiah Councill.  West recreates Plato’s “Allegory of the Cave” as an example of the roots of Western thought patterns. East is based on an even more ancient Chinese folk tale called “The 10 Ox-Herding Story,” an allegory in its own right that uses the character of the ox to represent ourselves and how these Eastern thought patterns contrast with the West.

Three actors; a male Pilgrim, a female Pilgrim, and the Trickster; will sing and speak and act their way through this production which will last under an hour. Accompanying the live action will be animation displayed on a 10×7 foot screen placed above the actors.

Performance: June 2 at 7:00pm; and June 4 at 7:00pm (35 minute runtime)
Venue: Unitarian Church in Charleston, 4 Archdale Street
Admission: $15 PURCHASE TICKETS

The Piccolo Spoleto Young Artists Series features emerging artists in the area. These advanced College of Charleston students perform concerts ranging from classical and jazz ensembles to voice recitals and a new steel band. The events take place at 12 noon at the Recital Hall in the College of Charleston School of the Arts newly renovated Simons Center for the Arts. 

Admission: $12 General Admission; $10 Students and Seniors PURCHASE TICKETS

Monday, May 26 • My Romance
Concert of Romantic composers featuring movements from Saint-Saëns’ Cello Concerto No. 1 and the Dvořák String Quintet No. 3, the “American” and rarely performed songs of Rachmaninoff in their original language.

Tuesday, May 27 • Back to the Future
This concert of the music of 20th Century composers emphasizes Sergei Prokofiev’s music with the Sonata for Two Violins in C Major, Op. 56 and a movement from his Sonata in C Major, Op. 119 for Cello and Piano. Music of Ernst Bloch and songs of Charles Ives are performed on this concert as well.

Wednesday, May 28 • I’ll Take Romance
What’s more romantic than the intimate Lieder of Franz Schubert and the chansons of Gabriel Fauré? They’re featured on this concert as is a movement from Elgar’s Cello Concerto in E Minor, Op. 85 and Navarra, Op. 33 for two violins by Pablo de Sarasate. Certainly, a highlight will be selections of Die Schwanegesang, the Lieder thought to be among Franz Schubert’s last compositions.

Thursday, May 29 • Great American Songbook
This ever-popular concert features the College of Charleston’s top jazz combo’s renditions of great jazz standards.

Friday, May 30 • Music of the Romantics
Brahms and Chopin…can it get much better than that?!? Those in attendance will hear some of Brahms’ most memorable lieder and a movement from his Sonata in E minor, Op. 38 for cello. Frédéric Chopin’s Sonata No.3, Op. 58 in B minor is featured in its entirety.

Monday, June 2 • Mostly Mozart
Our title for this concert of music from the Classical period of music will present music, not only compositions by Mozart but also Beethoven, Haydn and Boccherini. A movement Beethoven’s String Trio in G Major, Op. 9 No. 1 is prominent here as is a movement from Haydn’s Cello Concerto in C Major. Two arias from Mozart’s Le Nozze di Figaro will be on display as well.

Tuesday, June 3 • Go For Baroque
This concert leans heavily on the compositions of J.S. Bach but also includes Vivaldi and Handel, among others. Jean-Marie Leclair’s Sonata for Two Violins in E Minor, Op. 3, No. 5 (arranged for flute & violin) and a movement of Vivaldi’s Concerto in D Minor for Cello and Piano are featured here as are suites, preludes & fugues for violin and for cello, by the great master, Johann Sebastian Bach.

Wednesday, June 4 • Isn’t It Romantic
This is an eclectic concert of music by many composers of the 19th Century. A highlight will certainly be the performance of the first half of Robert Schumann’s Dichterliebe. Saint-Saëns’ Concerto No. 1 in A minor, Op. 33 for cello and selections of Granados’ music for piano, including. His Danzas Españolas, will be pleasurable as well.

Thursday, June 5 • To Infinity and Beyond
This performance focuses on composers whose lives stretched into the 20th Century and those who are current, 21st Century, composers. The beautiful songs of Aaron Copland, Amy Beach and Tom Cipullo are featured as are the piano compositions of Olivier Messiaen and Sergei Prokofiev. Of particular interest will be Dmitri Shostakovich’s Five Pieces for Two Violins & Piano.

Friday, June 6 • Steel Band, Caribbean Style!
The College of Charleston Steel Band plays the music of Trinidad including both the Calypso and Soca styles.  With works by Lord Kitchner, Liam Teague and many more Trinidadian artists and songs by popular artists like John Lennon and Van Morrison, this concert is sure to be a rare treat!