Mason Bands Concert: West Side Story (2026)

Mason Symphonic Band and Mason Wind Symphony present an evening connecting traditional folk melodies, Baroque counterpoint, contemporary wind-band writing, and the vivid musical world of Leonard Bernstein. The concert culminates in Paul Lavender’s arrangement of Bernstein’s *Symphonic Dances from West Side Story*, bringing the musical’s romance, conflict, and urban energy to the concert stage.

The Mason Symphonic Band performs works by Calvin Custer, Frank Erickson, and Frank Ticheli, while the Mason Wind Symphony follows with music by J. S. Bach, Nicole Piunno, and Bernstein. Together, the program spans four centuries of musical ideas and highlights the continuing vitality of the wind-band tradition.

When: Monday, October 5, 2026.

Showtimes: The concert begins at 7:30 p.m.

Program: The Mason Symphonic Band performs Calvin Custer’s *Variations on Scarborough Fair*, Frank Erickson’s *Air for Band*, and Frank Ticheli’s *Cajun Folksongs*. The Mason Wind Symphony performs *Fervent Is My Longing* and *Little Fugue in G Minor* by J. S. Bach, Nicole Piunno’s *With Love and Grace*, and Bernstein’s *Symphonic Dances from West Side Story*, arranged by Paul Lavender.

Lineup: Mason Symphonic Band and Mason Wind Symphony.

Tickets: $20 for adults, $15 for seniors, and $10 for youth. Prices include fees.

Student Tickets: A limited number of free student tickets will be offered beginning two Tuesdays before the performance.

Performance Program: The digital program is expected to be available during the week of the event.

Venue: Center for the Arts Concert Hall, George Mason University, Fairfax Campus.