Concert Series 2026-2027 Presenting Sponsor
2026/2027 Season Sponsors Season Presenting Sponsor
www.chrisgaragedoors.com
Conductor’s Circle Sponsor
Signature Series Sponsors
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Special Thank You
Our Impact Report
13,000+ audience members served this season
3,200+ students reached through The Crescendo Project 1300+ seniors engaged through The Golden Note Initiative
Over 700 in free veterans tickets valued at over $33,000 distributed through Seats for Service & VetTix
12 concerts, 38 senior community events, and 18 educational events held across multiple counties
Support Our Mission
Our mission is to engage, enrich, and nurture our diverse community through musical performance, education, and outreach. We do this by:
Making the captivating power of music accessible and relevant to everyone wherever they are and whoever they are Invigorating music education in schools with limited resources through outreach and performance.
Building an inspiring home for community, professional, and educator musicians.
Fulfilling our responsibility to our audiences, fellow musicians, and community.
Join Us!
Support the Symphony of the Rockies!
Donate and be a part of our musical journey. Monthly and one-time gifts welcome.
Our History
For over 70 years, the Symphony of the Rockies has been a vibrant fixture in the Denver-area arts scene. Since his appointment in 2013, Devin Patrick Hughes has transformed the ensemble into a bold, boundary-breaking force bringing worldclass symphonic power into the mountain region. In the last decade, the orchestra has doubled its operating budget, topped out venues, calibrated its artistic profile and expanded educational reach to thousands of students each year. When the pandemic hit, it didn’t drop a beat pivoting to virtual, outdoor and safe live concerts to keep music alive for musicians and audiences alike.
The ensemble blends professionals, rising stars and passionate community members, performing a dynamic mix of classical masterpieces, new works by living composers and crossover concerts (pop, film, video-games, folk).
At its heart is inspiration and access through Discovery concerts, an Emerging Artists program and senior outreach, the Symphony of the Rockies doesn’t just play music it builds the next generation of listeners and performers.
From rousing Fourth of July fireworks at Breckenridge Brewery to performances at premier Colorado halls like the Newman Center and Lone Tree Arts Center, the orchestra brings symphonic music to schools, churches, synagogues and outdoor gathering spots all across the Front Range.
Rick Steves' Europe: A Symphonic Journey
Where Great Music Meets Great Destinations
Travel without a passport as Rick Steves and the Symphony of the Rockies take you on a remarkable journey through the landscapes, cultures, and stories that have inspired generations. Through music, imagery, and storytelling, discover the connections between people, places, and the universal language of music.
Pack Your Bags. Bring Your Ears.
Thursday, October 8, 2026 7:30PM
Newman Center for the Performing Arts, Gates Concert Hall
2344 East Iliff Avenue, Denver, Colorado 80210
The Creation Haydn's Masterpiece of Wonder featuring Voices West
From darkness and chaos to light and life, experience one of the most uplifting works ever written. In this special collaboration between Symphony of the Rockies and Voices West, Haydn's monumental masterpiece unfolds with soaring choruses, brilliant orchestral colors, and moments of profound beauty. A celebration of creation, hope, and the wonder of the natural world, The Creation remains one of classical music's most joyful and inspiring achievements.
Friday, October 16, 2026 7:30PM
Bethany Lutheran Church 4500 E Hampden Ave, Cherry Hills Village, CO 80113
America at 250
Celebrating Service, Freedom, & Community
Join Symphony of the Rockies as we celebrate America's 250th birthday and honor the veterans whose service has shaped our nation. Featuring patriotic favorites, inspiring musical tributes, and stories of courage and resilience, this special concert celebrates both our history and our future.
Friday, November 6, 2026 7:30PM
Lone Tree Arts Center
10075 Commons St, Lone Tree, CO 80124
Hop into the holiday spirit with an interactive and engaging one-hour performance featuring popular music of the seasons for families of all ages. Included is a gift bag for kids and singalongs for the whole family.
Saturday, December 5, 2026 3PM
Newman Center for the Performing Arts, Hamilton Recital Hall 2344 East Iliff Avenue, Denver, Colorado 80210
With heartfelt gratitude to the Gehlbach Family Fund
This concert would not be possible without their generous support Thank you for helping us bring the joy and spirit of the season to life through music!
Merry & Bright Holiday Pops with Symphony of the Rockies
Celebrate the season with an evening of festive favorites, sparkling orchestral arrangements, and plenty of holiday cheer. From beloved classics and heartwarming carols to joyful audience favorites, Merry & Bright captures the magic, nostalgia, and excitement of the holidays. Gather your family and friends for a festive musical celebration that is sure to leave spirits lifted and hearts glowing all season long.
Saturday, December 12, 2026 7:30PM
Lone Tree Arts Center
10075 Commons St, Lone Tree, CO 80124
Messiah
Handel's Timeless Masterpiece
Experience one of the most beloved works in all of classical music. Featuring the famous Hallelujah Chorus and some of the most moving music ever written, Handel's Messiah remains a powerful celebration of hope, faith, and the enduring spirit of the season.
Saturday, December 19, 2026 7:30PM
Newman Center for the Performing Arts, Hamilton Recital Hall
2344 East Iliff Avenue, Denver, Colorado 80210
January9,2027
7:30PM
Rising Stars
The Future of Classical Music
Experience the extraordinary talent, passion, and promise of the next generation of musicians Rising Stars showcases exceptional young artists from the Symphony of the Rockies' Emerging Young Artists Program alongside distinguished faculty and guest performers from the Lamont School of Music.
This inspiring evening highlights remarkable soloists and chamber musicians whose artistry is already turning heads on local, national, and international stages Featured artists include students and alumni from Colorado's premier music programs, including the renowned mentorship of violinist Linda Wang, whose students have earned recognition for both their extraordinary musical achievements and inspiring personal journeys.
Among this season's featured performers is Emerging Young Artist Jad Ibrahim, an acclaimed young violinist, former concertmaster at Interlochen Arts Academy, and Syrian refugee whose talent, determination, and artistry have captured national attention. Together with fellow Rising Stars from across Colorado, these remarkable young musicians offer a glimpse into the future of classical music.
Join us for an unforgettable evening celebrating excellence, opportunity, and the transformative power of music.
Featuring:
Jad Ibrahim
Sabine Han
Sadie Han
Saturday, January 9, 2027 7:30PM
Newman Center for the Performing Arts, Hamilton Recital Hall
2344 East Iliff Avenue, Denver, Colorado 80210
FIRESIDE
Beethoven & Tchaikovsky featuring Heewon Lee, cello
Escape the winter chill and join Symphony of the Rockies for an intimate evening of music. Fireside features beloved works by Beethoven alongside Tchaikovsky's elegant and deeply expressive Variations on a Rococo Theme for cello and orchestra. Experience classical music as it was once enjoyed: up close, personal, and shared among friends. Gather by the fire for a night of warmth, elegance, and extraordinary music. Saturday, February 27, 2027 7:30PM Location Coming Soon
Ode to Joy
Beethoven's Ninth Symphony
A triumphant celebration of the human spirit, Beethoven's Ninth Symphony stands among the greatest achievements in music history. Featuring the iconic "Ode to Joy," powerful chorus, and soaring soloists, this unforgettable masterpiece brings the season to a thrilling conclusion.
Friday, March 26, 2027 7:30PM
Newman Center for the Performing Arts, Gates Concert Hall 2344 East Iliff Avenue, Denver, Colorado 80210
May 1, 2027 5:30 PM
The Maestro's Derby
Symphony of the Rockies Gala 2027
Don your finest Derby attire and join us for an unforgettable evening of music, mint juleps, elegant dining, and exciting fundraising.
Inspired by the pageantry and excitement of the Kentucky Derby, this annual gala supports Symphony of the Rockies' education and community programs.
May 1, 2027 5:30PM
University of Denver, Knoebel Tuscan Ballroom
2044 East Evans Avenue, Denver, Colorado 80218
The SOTR’s Discovery Concerts are designed to ignite a passion for and a delight in music through an immersive and interactive experience for students. Our Discovery concerts include engaging performances by our musical ensemble players led by our energetic Artistic Director and Conductor – Devin Patrick Hughes. Prior to the concert, we’ll send suggested lesson ideas that help prepare the students for sing-alongs and activities related to the concert.
A Musical Adventure Comes to Your School!
Bring the magic of a live orchestra directly to your students with Symphony of the Rockies' engaging performance of Sergei Prokofiev's beloved Peter & the Wolf.
Students will discover how music tells a story as professional musicians introduce the instruments of the orchestra through colorful characters, memorable melodies, and interactive storytelling. From Peter and his animal friends to the mischievous wolf, each character comes to life through a different instrument, helping students learn how composers use music to create emotion, action, and imagination.
Perfect for elementary and middle school audiences, this educational performance supports music appreciation, active listening, storytelling, and arts integration while providing students with an unforgettable live arts experience.
Available for schools, libraries, community centers, and youth organizations. Book today and bring a musical adventure to your students!
Spring 2027
PETER & THE WOLF
8 PM JULY 3
An annual not to be missed event, celebrate Independence Day at Breckenridge Brewery for the most bombastic and amazing fireworks display in Colorado, great food & beer, and the most exciting patriotic and popular music of the ages! Included are the great American film scores, and American folk and popular favorites! Fun for the wh
The Crescendo Project
The Crescendo Project is the Symphony of the Rockies visionary initiative, designed to orchestrate a comprehensive musical journey for students from their first note to professional mastery.
Through a range of educational programs tailored for school’s and organization’s needs, we're dedicated to enriching lives, enhancing cognitive and emotional development, and fostering a deep, lifelong connection with music for students across the south Denver metro area.
We proudly offer these programs to all, including providing them at no cost to Title I schools and other organizations facing financial constraints, because we believe financial barriers should never silence potential.
Join us as we transform today's learners into tomorrow's virtuosos, one step at a time. Support The Crescendo
The Golden Note Initiative
The Golden Note Initiative, a proud endeavor of the Symphony of the Rockies, represents our commitment to ensuring that the enriching power of music reaches every member of our community, especially our valued seniors. Music, in its universal language, possesses the extraordinary ability to connect, uplift, and heal.
Recognizing that not all seniors can attend our live concerts, we've tailored the Golden Note Initiative to bring the concert experience directly to them, whether they reside in senior living facilities or prefer the comfort of their own homes. This initiative is a testament to our belief that access to cultural experiences should not be limited by age or mobility.
This initiative is more than just a program; it's a reflection of the Symphony of the Rockies's dedication to engaging and inspiring every member of our community.
Seats for Service
Seats for Service is the Symphony of the Rockies’ ticket access initiative dedicated to active-duty military, veterans, national guard & reserve, and military families.
Through donated and sponsored tickets, we ensure that those who protect and serve our communities can experience the power of live symphonic music, without financial barriers.
Music is our way of saying thank you.
For many service members and families, access to live cultural experiences can be limited by cost, transition challenges, or the demands of service life.
A night at the symphony becomes more than entertainment.
It becomes renewal.
Support Seats for Service
“My wife, daughter, grandson, and I had a great evening with the Symphony. We truly enjoyed the music from the movies but wow, the Rose of Sonora was wonderful. The artistry of the movements were truly amazing We stayed for the Q&A and learned much about the concerto and George S Clinton & Holly Mulcahy teaming up for this ” LeRoy, U.S. Air Force (Veteran) 1972 - 1995
“Dear Symphony of the Rockies, The performance last night was absolutely wonderful and it was fun Thank you for supporting Vet Tix and the Veterans in our community. Events like this mean the world to many of us. We couldn’t do this without you. The conductor, Mr. Hughes, was delightful. Every segment was a mix of nostalgia and joy The 5 part Rose of Sonora just got better as each part progressed. The violinist was elegant and superb. Being able to attend this event was a healing experience, not only for the music, but to be in community. Thank you so much for this opportunity! I am grateful for your kindness”
S, U.S. Navy (Veteran) 1992 - 1994
“Your support of veterans and their families is deeply appreciated Contributions like yours allow us to enjoy artistic experiences that create lasting memories.”
Michelle, William (U.S. Navy Veteran), Kevin & Brooke
Support Seats for Service
OUR CONDUCTOR
Devin Patrick Hughes
Highly regarded for his exhilarating score interpretations, advocacy for music accessibility, innate passion, and entrepreneurial spirit, Devin Patrick Hughes is an American orchestral and operatic conductor of Irish and Guatemalan descent He is concurrently serving as Artistic Director & Conductor of the Symphony of the Rockies, and Music Director and Conductor of the Boulder Symphony & Music Academy Previously he has held artistic leadership positions with the Northwest Florida Symphony Orchestra, Santa Fe Youth Symphony Association, Denver Young Artists Orchestra, and Denver Philharmonic Orchestra. He hosts One Symphony, an award-winning podcast that explores the relevance of classical music in our lives.
Devin was recently one of three Americans invited to the Erich Bergel International Conducting Competition in Romania, the Antal Dorati Conducting Competition in Hungary, and featured in Maestro, the Solti International Conducting Competition as a semi-finalist in Budapest Selected as only one of twelve conductors worldwide, he competed in in the Toscanini International Conducting Competition in Italy and was a conducting fellow at the American Academy of
Conducting at Aspen He has conducted many orchestras across North America and Europe including the Colorado Symphony, Des Moines Symphony, Rochester Philharmonic, San Antonio Symphony, Filarmonica Arturo Toscanini, Orchestra da Camera Fiorentina, Tîrgu Mureș State Philharmonic, and Orchestra of the Hungarian State Opera.
As the founding Music Director & Conductor of Symphony of the Rockies and Boulder Symphony & Music Academy, Devin has fostered sustainable livings for those in the arts by raising millions of dollars that directly support professional musicians, teachers, composers, performers, and administrators. His initiatives and spirit create a culture that attracts those who want to make the orchestra approachable, accessible, and relevant for all The Symphony’s Crescendo program provides professional support and supplemental educational initiatives for elementary to high school arts programs
Devin has partnered to make music more universally accessible through organizations such as Carnegie Hall’s LinkUp, Red Cross, Oxfam International, I Have A Dream, El Sistema. Through the Glow Project and other sensory-friendly performances geared to those with autism and dementia, Devin has created programs tailored to those who cannot experience the full sound and stimulation of a live symphony orch t
A zealous perf composer-inresidency prog e avenues to bring living co in the symphonic orc ers Anna Clyne and Sarah Kirk Vienna Opera Academy at th es at Ithaca College Schoo Vienna Conservatory o