Muskegon, Michigan, February 19, 2024—BLKBOK’s high-energy style seeks to entertain with a live piano based performance that is culturally reflective and encourages dialogue. BLKBOK’s website describes him as equal parts “artist/pianist/composer/lover of humans.” His stage name is a nod to the legendary J.S. Bach and an embodiment of the diverse influences that have shaped his […]
Muskegon, MI, February 5, 2024—When shelter-at-home orders were lifted in early summer of 2020, West Michigan Symphony was the first orchestra in the U.S. to return to the stage—via a “Virtual Concert” series featuring previously scheduled but delayed programming. Violinist Chee-Yun was the featured artist for its first full-length concert video, featuring the combined Vivaldi […]
Muskegon, MI, January 15, 2024—Acclaimed by the Baltimore Sun as “one of the biggest pianistic talents in 25 years,” pianist Terrence Wilson will make his debut with the West Michigan Symphony, conducted by Scott Speck, in Mozart’s Piano Concerto No. 21 at 7:30pm Friday, January 26. Also on the program will be Beethoven’s sunny Symphony No. […]
Costumed musicians, narration and graphics are all part of this unique storybook series for children ages 3 to 8 Muskegon, Michigan, November 30, 2023—What would the holidays be without the West Michigan Symphony Brass Quintet “reindeer” performing great seasonal music for youngsters? Based on the book by Doreen Cronin and Betsy Lewin, Clickity Clack Ho […]
Muskegon, Michigan, November 30, 2023—It’s a Wonderful Life. Home Alone. Elf. Babes in Toyland. Polar Express. Meet Me in St. Louis. A Christmas Carol. It’s all on the bill when Music Director Scott Speck leads the West Michigan Symphony and guest vocalist Holly Payne in the beloved annual Home for the Holidays concert at 7:30pm […]
Muskegon, Michigan, October 18, 2023— A Jazzthetik review captured the essence of Syrian clarinetist Kinan Azmeh’s music: “It’s not Arabia, not jazz, not classical—it’s all of the above.” The genre-bending improviser and composer has been hailed as “intensely soulful” by The New York Times and “spellbinding” by the New Yorker. Azmeh will make his regional […]
Muskegon, Michigan, October 3, 2023—Acoustic guitar “ninja” Trace Bundy must be seen, not just heard. His music is poetry in motion, using harmonics, looping, multiple capos, and his unique banter and stage presence to deliver an unforgettable live concert experience. Bundy will open the 2023/24 Season at The Block at 7:30pm Saturday, October 14. For […]
Muskegon, Michigan, September 18, 2023—She left us just five years ago, but Aretha Franklin remains one of the most influential singers of all time. West Michigan Symphony will present a concert tribute to the Queen of Soul at 7:30pm Friday, September 29. Music Director Scott Speck will lead the performance featuring Franklin’s greatest hits, including […]
by CEO Andy Buelow I had a delightful conversation with one of our musicians down in the Frau Lounge after last month’s season finale. This is a player who travels in from Chicago, maintaining an active performance schedule there as well as several other major markets throughout the U.S. She said, “I always wait until […]
Muskegon, Michigan, June 20, 2023—The typical jazz drummer is a hip but restrained figure, seated behind a trap set keeping the beat. He and the bass player are the core rhythm section; their job is to remain out of the spotlight, providing a solid but unobtrusive backing for the band, the pianist, or whoever is […]
