Mankato — The Mankato Symphony Orchestra (MSO) proudly announces its 2026–27 season, Stories in Sound—a dynamic and emotionally rich series that celebrates the power of music to tell stories, bring people together, and inspire connection across generations.

From bold orchestral masterworks to intimate chamber performances, the season invites audiences to experience music as narrative—alive with color, memory, and imagination.

The season begins outdoors with the beloved community tradition:

Symphony on the Prairie Saturday, September 12 at 6:00 PM — Benson Park, North Mankato

Kick off the season under the open sky with an evening that celebrates the spirit of America and the joy of coming together. In honor of America’s 250th anniversary, the program features patriotic favorites alongside nostalgic classics like The Sound of Music. Bring lawn chairs, gather family and friends, and enjoy a relaxed, welcoming concert for all. Free-will donation; all are welcome. Sponsored in part by the City of North Mankato.

Stories of Fire Saturday, October 24 at 4:00 PM – Crossview Church, North Mankato

The symphonic season ignites with a bold celebration of life, memory, and musical passion. Inspired by Día de los Muertos, this vibrant program features Latin American composers including Diego Sánchez Haase’s En Karumbe and Juan Pablo Contreras’ La Minerva, Concerto for Violin and Orchestra, performed by concertmaster Sabrina Tabby. The program culminates in Brahms’ Symphony No. 4—a masterpiece of intensity, beauty, and unstoppable momentum.

Light in Winter Saturday, December 5 at 4:00 PM — Good Counsel Chapel, Mankato

A journey of reflection and renewal, this concert offers warmth and radiance in the intimate, candlelit setting of Good Counsel Chapel. Highlights include Haydn’s Symphony No. 30 “Alleluia,” Hilary Purrington’s Words of Departure for choir and orchestra, Handel’s Organ Concerto in F minor featuring Celina Kobetitsch, and Haydn’s triumphant Symphony No. 104 “London.”

The Next Chapter: Young Artist Showcase Monday, March 8 at 7:00 PM — Trinity Chapel, Bethany Lutheran College

Celebrating rising talent and the future of music, this special performance features winners of the MSO Young Artist Competition. Audiences will experience Saint-Saëns’ Cello Concerto and Tchaikovsky’s Violin Concerto performed by exceptional young musicians, in collaboration with local artists and mentors.

Swan Lake & Frozen Forest Saturday, March 13 at 4:00 PM — Saint Peter High School Auditorium

A sweeping multimedia experience where music, dance, and film converge. Internationally acclaimed cellist Amit Peled performs a special, commissioned piece by Andrea Casarrubios, called La llave ‘The Key’ and Bruch’s Kol Nidrei. The program also features selections from Tchaikovsky’s Swan Lake in collaboration with Mankato Ballet, and a stunning live-to-film presentation of Stravinsky’s Firebird paired with Frozen Forest, featuring a newly commissioned animated film by Pietro Chiovaro.

Season Finale: Mahler’s “Resurrection” Symphony Saturday, April 24 at 4:00 PM — Crossview Church, North Mankato

The season culminates in Mahler’s Symphony No. 2, Resurrection—a monumental work of profound emotional depth and transcendence. Featuring full orchestra, Symphony Choir, and soloists Linh Kauffman and Kara Morgan, this powerful finale journeys from darkness to light in an unforgettable live experience.

Music on the Hill: Chamber Series Sundays at 4:00 PM — Trinity Chapel, Bethany Lutheran College — November 1 • January 10 • March 21 • May 23

Curated by Artistic Director Richard Belcher, Music on the Hill offers an intimate concert experience where audiences connect closely with exceptional musicians. Each program is unique—thoughtfully crafted, engaging, and performed in the beautiful acoustics of Trinity Chapel.

Ticket Information

Season passes are now available at mankatosymphony.org.

Full Season:

• Full Feast Package (9 concerts): $249
• Symphonic Series (5 concerts): $145
• Music on the Hill (4 concerts): $115

Individual Tickets:

• Adults $35
• Students (14–25) $10 advance
• Children (5–13) $5
• Student Rush $5

“This season is about storytelling in its many forms,” said Executive Director Bethel Balge. “From powerful symphonic works to intimate chamber music, each concert invites audiences to experience music as something deeply human—something that connects us, moves us, and stays with us long after the final note.”

Join the Mankato Symphony Orchestra for a season of discovery, connection, and unforgettable musical storytelling.

For more information, visit mankatosymphony.org or follow the Mankato Symphony
Orchestra on social media.

About the Mankato Symphony Orchestra

Founded in 1950, the MSO presents orchestral and chamber music of the highest caliber to Southern Minnesota. Under the leadership of Music Director Ernesto Estigarribia Mussi and Executive Director Bethel Balge, the orchestra continues to inspire audiences of all ages through performances, education, and community outreach.