Des Moines Symphony News

4 Holidays. 4 Concerts. 10/12/2026 In Symphony News

4 Holidays. 4 Concerts. From Halloween thrills to holiday traditions and a spectacular New Year’s Eve, the Des Moines Symphony has four unforgettable ways to celebrate the season. Whether you’re planning a date night, gathering friends and family, or looking for a new holiday tradition, there’s a concert to put on your calendar.

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Meet Derek Wang 10/09/2026 In Symphony News

Derek Wang join the Symphony for Beautiful Monsters! Wang will perform Liszt's Totentanz. Beautiful Monsters—John Williams and Symphonie Fantastique. Read more about him before attending the performances on October 31 and November 01, 2026 at the Des Moines Civic Center!

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The Movie Magic of Night on Bald Mountain 10/08/2026 In Symphony News

Discover the spooky history behind Mussorgsky’s Night on Bald Mountain, from its origins as a depiction of a witches’ sabbath to its unforgettable appearance in Disney’s Fantasia. Explore how the piece became a Halloween classic and why its eerie, supernatural sound continues to captivate audiences. Then, get ready to experience it live alongside music by John Williams, Liszt and Berlioz at the Des Moines Symphony’s Beautiful Monsters on Halloween weekend!

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Beautiful Monsters – John Williams & Symphonie Fantastique Program Notes 10/07/2026 In Symphony News

Read about the music and composers featured in Beautiful Monsters—John Williams and Symphonie Fantastique, presented on October 31 and November 1.

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Film Music: A Gateway into Orchestral Music 10/06/2026 In Symphony News

Many people assume orchestral music isn’t for them. They may picture unfamiliar classical compositions, formal concert halls, or an experience that requires musical knowledge. Yet those same people may love the soaring themes, suspenseful strings, and powerful brass in their favorite film scores. If movie music can make your heart race, bring tears to your eyes, or transport you to another world, you already understand the emotional power of an orchestra.

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Meet The Harlem Quartet & Harry Smith 09/16/2026 In Symphony News

Harry Smith and the Harlem Quartet join the Symphony for their Season Debut! Mr. Smith will narrate Peter Boyer's American Mosaic. The Harlem Quartet will perform Michael Abels' Urban Legends.Unity - American Mosaic & West Side Story. Read more about them before attending the performances on September 26 & 27, 2026 at the Des Moines Civic Center!

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Make It a Girls’ Night Out with the Des Moines Symphony! 09/13/2026 In Symphony News

Gather your friends for a girls’ night out with the Des Moines Symphony! Start your evening with dinner, drinks, and catching up at one of our participating downtown restaurants, then head to the Civic Center for an unforgettable night of live orchestral music.

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Unity – American Mosaic & West Side Story Program Notes 09/09/2026 In Symphony News

Read about the music and composers featured in Unity - American Mosaic & West Side Story on September 26 & 27, 2026.

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Des Moines Symphony's Fifth Annual Fred & Charlotte Hubbell Visiting Artists In Residence Program 09/08/2026 In Symphony News

The Fred & Charlotte Hubbell Visiting Artist in Residence Program brings outstanding national and international musicians to Des Moines for an annual residency. Read about our 2026-2027 Artist In Residence, the Harlem Quartet, and their week of activities.

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The Harriet S. & J. Locke Macomber Concert 09/03/2026 In Symphony News

Read about Harriet S. & J. Locke Macomber, who have generously donated so the Des Moines Symphony can continue to bring exciting and enriching symphonic experiences to the Greater Des Moines area.

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