Symphony season premier concert to feature pop-up bar, art exhibition

Published 12:00 am Sunday, October 8, 2017

SALISBURY — The Salisbury Symphony is re-imagining the concert-going experience with its season premier concert. To be held Oct. 21, the event will feature not only a traditional concert experience, but will also live stream the event to a symphony-sponsored “pop-up bar.”

Symphony officials said they hope the change will provide “the most inclusive concert-going experience for the broadest possible audience.”

Both viewing experiences will be held at Catawba College. Those who desire a traditional experience can view the concert live in Keppel Auditorium, while those who prefer a more relaxed atmosphere can sip beverages from Morgan Ridge and enjoy an exhibition by Rail Walk artists in the Crystal Lounge.

Known as “The Lounge,” the pop-up bar will open at 5:30 p.m. and will serve Morgan Ridge wines, beers, light snacks and sodas throughout the evening. There will also be a large screen set up that will transmit the concert taking place inside Keppel Auditorium, for those who would prefer watch the concert in a more informal and social environment.

“We want our concerts to be a cultural melting pot, where music brings people from all walks of life together. Shared musical experiences can be transformative and I think this type of event is exactly what our community needs,” symphony Executive Director James Harvey said.

The Season Premiere Concert will feature Music Director David Hagy leading the Salisbury Symphony in Bach’s “Brandenburg” No. 3, Brahms’ Symphony No. 3 and Beethoven’s “Eroica” Symphony No. 3; three of the most popular symphonic works.

“This initiative is part of the Salisbury Symphony’s renewed commitment to serving the entire community,” symphony officials said in a press release.

As such, the symphony is offering complimentary tickets or discounted rates for groups, with multiple community organizations already taking part. The event is sponsored by Charles and Rachel Oestreicher Bernheim.

Community groups are eligible to receive discounted or complimentary tickets. Please contact director@salisburysymphony.org or call 704-637-4314 for details. For tickets and details visit: www.salisburysymphony.org.