Valley Symphony Association closed out 2025 with two powerful reminders that live music matters. This fall, audiences packed the Montrose Pavilion for “Bach to Rock,” a genre-hopping program that paired classical favorites with familiar pop and rock, and “Christmas by Candlelight,” featuring seasonal staples, a community sing-along and a rousing “Hallelujah” chorus.

Now the VSA turns to the second half of Season 54, themed “Heritage,” with concerts that reflect where we live, where we’ve been and our shared musical roots. Performed by an all-volunteer orchestra and chorus, the season continues with three performances at the Montrose Pavilion, each offering a different way to connect through music. Recent shows have sold out, so early ticket purchases are encouraged.

UPCOMING CONCERTS

“Canyons to Country” (Saturday, February 21 at 7 p.m. and Sunday, February 22 at 3 p.m.) explores the sound of the American West, with music inspired by wide-open landscapes, frontier stories and folk traditions. Works by Aaron Copland and Ferde Grofé capture the West’s sweeping grandeur and storytelling spirit.

In March, the VSA Chorus takes center stage for “High Notes to Harmonies” (Saturday, March 28 at 7 p.m. and Sunday, March 29 at 3 p.m.). This program connects American and Colorado history through powerful choral works, featuring composers such as Randall Thompson, William Dawson and Stephen Paulus. Expect music that reflects heritage and resilience, and the power of voices raised together.

The season wraps with “Past to Present” (Saturday, April 18 at 7 p.m. and Sunday, April 19 at 3 p.m.), a concert built around audience and musician favorites from the VSA’s long history. This reflective finale celebrates the music that has meant the most to the community over more than five decades.

INVESTING IN THE FUTURE

Alongside the concerts, the VSA has launched the Valley Symphony Endowment, a permanent fund created to support long-term financial stability and artistic excellence on the Western Slope. The endowment honors longtime violinist and educator Vivian Cheney and represents a commitment to keeping symphonic music accessible for generations. To learn more or contribute, email [email protected] 

The VSA also welcomes new musicians and singers, from experienced performers to those returning to music later in life. With members ranging from teenagers to nonagenarians, the orchestra and chorus remain a place where lifelong creativity and community connection grow side by side.

To purchase tickets or volunteer, visit ValleySymphony.net, follow the VSA on Facebook and YouTube, or email [email protected].  

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