S.C. college’s orchestra, opera to perform in Boston Symphony Hall
Celebrating 250 years of America in iconic venue
Conductor Yuriy Bekker and the College of Charleston Orchestra at Carnegie Hall earlier this year. Provided photo/Alyona Semenov.
The College of Charleston Orchestra and Opera will perform at Boston Symphony Hall next spring in celebration of America’s 250th birthday with a vibrant program of iconic American composers.
The free March 29, 2026 concert will feature Bernstein’s energetic overtures from Candide and West Side Story; Gershwin’s “Summertime” from Porgy and Bess, bringing a touch of Charleston’s charm to Boston; and Copland’s stirring “The Promise of Living” from The Tender Land, evoking the spirit of American hope and community. The program will culminate with the uplifting Make Our Garden Grow from Candide.
This milestone performance celebrates America’s musical heritage as it puts the spotlight on the College of Charleston’s orchestra and opera programs as they present a rich and diverse repertoire in the heart of one of America’s most historic cities.
Led by Yuriy Bekker, the college’s orchestra is one of four featured ensembles invited to perform at the concert as part of the Boston Instrumental Festival, further raising CofC’s national profile.
“I’ve been conducting the College of Charleston Orchestra for 14 years, having started with only 15 musicians. We’ve since grown to 80 members, representing both music and non-music majors at the college, as well as professors, alumni, and community members. This year, we also welcome Citadel cadets as part of our new partnership with The Citadel Military College,” Bekker said.
In the last few years, the orchestra has had unique touring opportunities with performances at the Kennedy Center and Carnegie Hall.
“In 2026, the orchestra’s upward trajectory will continue with another exceptional professional opportunity at Boston Symphony Hall—an experience our students will never forget. What better way to honor America’s 250th anniversary than by celebrating through the arts at an iconic, world-renowned landmark! I’m thrilled to celebrate alongside the college’s impressive opera program and its studio art program, which will present its own visual arts experience in Boston,” Bekker added.
The College’s Department of Studio Art will join the Boston journey with its first-ever student trip to the city. Timed to coincide with the orchestra performance at Boston Symphony Hall, studio art students will visit galleries, museums, artists’ studios, and graduate programs in the city before the trip culminates with the exciting opportunity to exhibit their own work in Boston.
As mentioned, the concert is free, but tickets must be reserved in advance. More about CofC in Boston here.