Louisville Orchestra Sets Two Free Neighborhood Concerts

The Louisville Orchestra is moving its live performances out of traditional concert halls and into local schools and community centers. Two free shows are scheduled for November 12 and November 13. These events aim to remove financial and geographic barriers for residents who want to hear a full symphony orchestra.

The first performance takes place on Thursday, November 12, at Valley High School. The second follows on Friday, November 13, at Neighborhood House. Both concerts start at 7:30 p.m. and run for approximately 90 minutes without an intermission. Admission is free, though the organization encourages attendees to make advance reservations. The Friday event includes a request for canned goods and non-perishable food items for Thanksgiving.

Conductor Na’Zir McFadden will lead the ensemble for both dates. The program mixes classical staples with new compositions. It opens with Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky's Capriccio Italien, a piece inspired by Italian culture. Igor Stravinsky's Symphony in Three Movements follows, known for its bold rhythms. Bernard Rands' Adieu provides a reflective segment featuring a brass quintet and string orchestra.

The evening includes the world premiere of Moved by the Beauty of the Trees. Seare Ahmad Farhat, a composer with the Louisville Orchestra Creators Corps, wrote the work. Vocalist Jean Bernard Cerin will perform the piece. This premiere is part of the Orchestra's effort to showcase living composers alongside established masterpieces.

Jude Vaclavik, CEO of the Louisville Orchestra, stated that the goal is to meet people where they are. He noted that audiences do not need prior knowledge of classical music to enjoy the concerts. The initiative, presented by Jim and Irene Karp and Metro Louisville, brings musicians into familiar spaces to strengthen local connections.

Music Without Borders serves as a signature community initiative for the organization. It targets new audiences by using accessible venues such as schools and neighborhood centers. The series continues the Orchestra's long-standing practice of offering free access to live orchestral music throughout Louisville.