The Orchestra of Southern Utah (OSU) is celebrating America’s music in its 2025–2026 concert season, presenting classics from Broadway, film, and the concert hall under the direction of Music Director and Conductor Carylee Zwang. The season opens October 9 at the Heritage Theater in Cedar City with Stage Meets the Silver Screen, the first of six concerts that highlight the nation’s diverse musical heritage as part of the America250 commemoration.
Stage Meets the Silver Screen
The October 9 concert features favorites including Mary Poppins Suite, West Side Story Dances, Phantom of the Opera, and “If I Were a Rich Man” from Fiddler on the Roof. Local vocalists will join the orchestra for an evening that blends stage and screen.
Children’s Jubilee
On October 11, OSU presents its annual Children’s Jubilee at 2 PM. The event begins at noon with art, science, and music activities for all ages. The concert shares highlights from the season opener and offers an interactive, family-friendly atmosphere. Admission is “pay as you can,” with donations of canned goods supporting SUU’s Hope Pantry. Babies are welcome free of charge.
Rock Gold Returns
By popular demand, Rock Gold III arrives November 20 with music by the Beach Boys, Madonna, Aerosmith, and more. Local vocalists will again share the stage with the orchestra, and auditions for additional selections—including songs by Adele and Shania Twain—are being accepted. This concert has sold out in the past, so season tickets guarantee admission.
Holiday Tradition: Messiah
On December 14–15, OSU continues a beloved tradition with the 85th local performance of Handel’s Messiah. A community choir and guest soloists will join the orchestra. Vocal and trumpet auditions are scheduled for September 25, with rehearsals beginning October 19.
Celebrating American Music
The February 19 program begins with the Star-Spangled Banner, followed by Copland’s Rodeo Suite with the John Mead Dance Company, Gershwin’s Rhapsody in Blue featuring pianist Christian Bohnenstengel, and lighter favorites such as Boogie Woogie Bugle Boy, The Entertainer, and Blue Tango.
New Music for a New Generation
On April 9, OSU presents the Hal Campbell Young Composers Concert, a platform for young American composers. “Winning compositions will be performed by OSU,” said David Jordan, Assistant Conductor and Contest Director. “It’s a thrill for composers to hear their work come to life, exciting for the orchestra to prepare it, and inspiring for the audience.” The program also includes Barber’s Adagio for Strings and Bernstein’s Overture to Candide.
Season Passes
Season tickets are $55 for adults and $35 for students, available online. “Music is a longstanding tradition in Cedar City, and we hope you will join us,” said OSU President Harold Shirley. “We are embracing variety and a chance to reconnect with memorable music by Americans.”
