Mason Bands Concert: West Side Story (2026)

The Mason Bands Concert: West Side Story (2026) is a single-evening collaboration between the Mason Symphonic Band and the Mason Wind Symphony, two ensembles from the George Mason Dewberry School of Music. The program juxtaposes folk-inspired works with the architectural clarity of Bach and the explosive energy of Leonard Bernstein, culminating in the Symphonic Dances from *West Side Story* arranged by Paul Lavender. The Mason Symphonic Band opens with Calvin Custer’s *Variations on Scarborough Fair*, Frank Erickson’s *Air for Band*, and Frank Ticheli’s *Cajun Folksongs*. The Mason Wind Symphony follows with two Bach reflections (*Fervent Is My Longing* and *Little Fugue in G Minor*), Nicole Piunno’s *With Love and Grace*, and the Bernstein dances. The concert presents four centuries of wind-band repertoire tied together by themes of memory, lyricism, and urban vitality.

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

Date: Monday, October 5, 2026.

Time: 7:30 p.m.

Duration: Not specified; program includes multiple works by two ensembles, likely 90–120 minutes including intermission.

Tickets: $20 Adult, $15 Senior, $10 Youth. Prices include all fees.

Student Tickets: A limited quantity of free student tickets is available, distributed two Tuesdays before the event (i.e., September 21, 2026). See the venue’s student ticket program for details.

Program: The full performance program is posted online the week of the event; a digital version will be accessible via the venue’s website.

Accessibility: The venue’s Accessibility page provides information on accommodations (wheelchair seating, assistive listening devices, etc.); contact the Center for the Arts in advance for specific needs.

Note: The concert is part of the 2026–27 season; patrons who select three or more performances in the same subscription can save 15% on tickets.