The DSO is excited to present our new Community Concert Series. These concerts are FREE and open to the public. No reservations are required.

Bring your friends and family and join us after work to unwind with members of your Delaware Symphony Orchestra. Performances begin at 5:30 p.m. Doors open at 4:30 p.m. Come as you are; no formal dress required! Families welcome! All ages welcome!

Please contact Hannah Leposa, Director of Patron Services, with any questions about our Community Concerts at hannah@delawaresymphony.org or 302-656-7442.

2023-2024 DSO Community Concert Schedule

Percussionists of the DSO

Wednesday, October 25, 2023, 5:30 p.m.
Howard High School of Technology


“The percussionists of the Delaware Symphony are excited to bring you this upcoming program of percussion music. This will be a whole new program (if you have been to ours in the past). We have a very diverse offering ranging from Bach and Handel to Jimmy Buffett. We have added Stephen Tipping as a special guest. Stephen adds his virtuoso steel drum (pan) playing as well as his wonderful quartet contributions. We have solos, duos, trios, and quartets planned. Percussion is the oldest of the instrument families, but new in so many ways. Come and check out all that percussion has to offer.”
— Bill Kerrigan, Principal Percussion

Music of the African Diaspora

Wednesday, February 14, 2024, 5:30 p.m.
Christina Cultural Arts Center, 705 N. Market Street, Wilmington, DE 19801


The rich, diverse Music of the African Diaspora emerges from the traditions of displaced Africans around the world — particularly the Caribbean, South America, and the United States. From these communities, genres like blues, jazz, spirituals, calypso, and habanera were born. In this concert, we pay homage to these influential styles, presenting them for 21st Century audiences.

Valerie Coleman’s composition, Freedmen of the Five Civilized Tribes, skillfully blends Native American folk music with African American slave songs, creating a powerful fusion of cultural heritage. Jessie Montgomery — known for her unique artistic vision — incorporates elements of classical tradition with the vernacular of African American style. Her work, Strum, mesmerizes with its playful jazz rhythms, evoking a spirited atmosphere.

Our program also includes Carlos Simon’s loop, a contemplative piece that reflects on the profound impact of the COVID-19 shutdown. Adolphus Hailstork’s Divertimento offers a somber and introspective composition, exploring profound themes. Lastly, Samuel Coleridge-Taylor’s Nonet showcases a blend of energy and lyrical beauty.

Through this program, we invite you to experience the timeless influence of these important works.


The Delaware Symphony Orchestra’s Education and Outreach programming is generously supported by
Tatiana and Gerret Copeland and The Longwood Foundation.