'24-'25 12^th Performing Season

The American Theatre
125 E Mellen St
Hampton, VA 23663

Join the Hampton Roads Philharmonic for an afternoon of music that showcases the lyrical beauty and the dramatic intensity of the orchestral repertoire.

The highlight of the concert will be Tchaikovsky’s Symphony No. 5. Composed in 1888, this symphony is a profound exploration of fate and destiny, themes that are woven through its sweeping melodies and powerful orchestration. Tchaikovsky’s genius for creating emotionally charged and richly textured music has made this symphony a beloved cornerstone of the classical repertoire.

This performance also honors two significant milestones in the world of classical music: the 100^th anniversary of Gabriel Fauré’s passing and the 150^th anniversary of Gustav Holst’s birth. In commemoration, the orchestra will perform Fauré’s Pavane, a delicate and haunting piece that captures the melodic beauty of the late Romantic period.  Holst’s Two Songs without Words, perhaps a lesser-known work, nevertheless showcases the composer at his best, combining instantly appealing folk melodies with bold and stately orchestration.

The American Theatre
125 E Mellen St
Hampton, VA 23663

In order to foster musical talent in our community and to give young musicians the valuable opportunity to perform as a soloist with an orchestra, the Hampton Roads Philharmonic is opening a portion of its season to feature a young soloist. Decided by an adjudicated competition, the winner will perform with the Hampton Roads Philharmonic as a featured soloist. The competition event is not open to the public audience, but we invite you to attend the Young Artist Competition Showcase performance in March to hear the winners live.

Register at hrphil.org/yac.

The American Theatre
125 E Mellen St
Hampton, VA 23663

Experience the season’s magic with the Hampton Roads Philharmonic in a festive blend of winter wonder and holiday cheer! Join us for our Golden Baton winner’s conducting debut of Sleigh Ride and other special guests still to be determined. From cherished Christmas classics to enchanting winter-inspired masterpieces, this concert is a light, bite-sized concert to delight the whole family.

The American Theatre
125 E Mellen St
Hampton, VA 23663

Join the Hampton Roads Philharmonic for an inspiring afternoon of music that celebrates a young rising soloist and the timeless genius of master composers. The centerpiece of this concert will be a performance by the winner of our 9^th annual Young Artist Competition, which takes place on November 3, 2024

The program also features The Moldau by Bedřich Smetana, a vivid and picturesque work that takes the listener on a journey down the Vltava River, evoking the beauty and spirit of the Czech countryside. This performance is particularly special as it marks the 200^th anniversary of Smetana’s birth, celebrating his enduring legacy as the father of Czech music.

In addition, the orchestra will perform Franz Schubert’s Symphony No. 5, a delightful and elegant work that reflects the youthful exuberance and charm of its composer. Written when Schubert was just 19 years old, this symphony is beloved for its lyrical melodies and light, classical style, reminiscent of Mozart.

Christopher Newport University
1 Avenue of the Arts
Newport News, VA 23606

The Hampton Roads Philharmonic is thrilled to participate in the 4th Annual Virginia Community Music Festival, hosted by Christopher Newport University on May 10-11, 2025. This festival is a celebration of community music, bringing together ensembles from across Virginia for a weekend of public performances, educational workshops, and inspiring lectures.

On May 11, the Hampton Roads Philharmonic will perform Florence Price’s Symphony No. 1. Price, a trailblazing African American composer, made significant contributions to classical music with her rich, evocative compositions that blend European-classical techniques with elements of African American musical traditions. This performance aims to contribute to the ongoing discovery and recognition of her musical legacy.

In addition to our performance, the festival will feature workshops and lectures on health for adult musicians, audience development, fundraising, and more. We encourage you to attend all weekend to support your local performing arts organizations.

Ella Fitzgerald Theater at the Downing-Gross Cultural Arts Center
2410 Wickham Ave
Newport News, VA 23607

Join the Hampton Roads Philharmonic as we partner with Moxart, a non-profit organization dedicated to providing skilled amateur soloists the opportunity to shine. Founded in 2010, Moxart has been a champion for talented musicians, offering them the unique chance to perform concertos alongside orchestral ensembles, bringing their passion and skill to the stage.

Repertoire and soloist for this concert will be announced shortly once details are finalized. Check back for updates!