Wilmington Symphony Orchestra: 2026-2027 Season

The Wilmington Symphony Orchestra’s 55th season, led by Music Director Peter Askim, celebrates America’s 250th anniversary with a dynamic blend of tradition and innovation. Highlights include Dvořák’s “New World” Symphony, Beethoven’s Fifth, and Holst’s The Planets, alongside works by Carlos Simon, Gabriela Lena Frank, and a new commission in honor of America 250 by local composer and UNCW faculty member Chelsea Loew. The season features renowned guest artist Stefan Jackiw and Sphinx artist Andres Sanchez, as well as collaborations with the Cape Fear Chorale— underscoring the orchestra’s commitment to community, education, and the evolving American musical voice.

9/26/26 at 7:30pm: Barber Violin Concerto + Dvořák Symphony No. 9

Peter Askim, Conductor
Stephan Jackiw, Violin‍

Carlos Simon: Festive Fanfare and Overture
Samuel Barber: Violin Concerto
Antonín Dvořák: Symphony No. 9 in E minor, "From the New World"

11/14/26 at 7:30pm: Beethoven’s Fifth Symphony

Peter Askim, Conductor

Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart: Overture to the Magic Flute
Gabriela Lena Frank: Escaramuza
Jeffrey Scott: The Journey
Ludwig van Beethoven: Symphony No. 5 in C Minor, Op. 67

01/16/27 at 7:30pm: Bernstein Chichester Psalms + Still Symphony No. 1

Peter Askim, Conductor
Cape Fear Chorale

Jerod Impichchaachaaha' Tate: Chokfi'
Chelsea Loew: Newly Commissioned Work in Honor of America 250
Samuel Barber: Adagio for Strings
Leonard Bernstein: Chichester Psalms with Cape Fear Chorale
Willliam Grant Still: Symphony No. 1, "Afro-American"

03/13/27 at 7:30pm: Brahms Symphony No. 2

Peter Askim, Conductor

George Frederic Handel: Selections from Water Music
Barbara Gallagher: Suite from The Flowers
Ryan Lindveit: Desire Lines
Johannes Brahms: Symphony No. 2 in D, Op. 73

05/01/27 at 7:30pm: Schumann Cello Concerto + Selections from The Planets

Peter Askim, Conductor
Andres Sanchez, Cello

Jennifer Higdon: Blue Cathedral
Ernesto Ferreri: hymnus ad cosmos
Robert Schumann: Cello Concerto with Andres Sanchez, Cello
Gustav Holst: Selections from The Planets