August 11, 2025

A mosaic is more than a pattern—it’s a story told in color, shape, and texture. This year, the Waco Symphony’s 2025–26 season, “American Mosaic: Celebrating 250 Years,” brings that concept to life with music that reflects the diversity, creativity, and depth of the American experience. 

From the iconic sounds of Leonard Bernstein and Aaron Copland to the fresh, vibrant voices of Polina Nazaykinskaya, Jessie Montgomery, and Shawn Okpebholo, this season honors the past while spotlighting the future of American music. Timeless works by Beethoven and Tchaikovsky—beloved by audiences across the country—round out the program in a season that truly spans the full spectrum of sound.

“American icons like Bernstein and Copland, as well as the next generation of American composers will be featured alongside classical favorites,” said Music Director Lawrence Loh. “It’s a season that celebrates where we’ve been and where we’re going.”

What’s New This Year? 

We’re expanding from four to five thrilling concerts, including a brand-new pops event: An Emerald City Evening brings Broadway to Waco with unforgettable music from Wicked, The Wiz, Les Misérables, and more—performed by powerhouse vocalists Mamie Parris, Shayna Steele, and Nathaniel Hackmann. 

2025–26 Season Highlights

October 2, 2025 | Made in AmericaBarber’s Violin Concerto (featuring Grammy winner Anne Akiko Meyers) and Rachmaninoff’s Symphonic Dances launch the season with bold energy.

Barber’s Violin Concerto (featuring Grammy winner Anne Akiko Meyers) and Rachmaninoff’s Symphonic Dances launch the season with bold energy.

November 6, 2025 | From Bernstein to Copland

Dynamic works by Bernstein, Copland, and Ginastera—featuring Dallas Symphony principal harpist Emily Levin.

January 22, 2026 | 2025 Cliburn Gold Medalist

Hear Cliburn winner Aristo Sham take on Brahms, paired with Tchaikovsky’s stirring Pathétique Symphony.

March 19, 2026 | Stellar, Sterling, & Beethoven 5

Cellist Sterling Elliott joins the Waco Symphony Orchestra for a powerful night that includes a new work by Shawn Okpebholo and Beethoven’s Fifth Symphony.

April 16, 2026 | An Emerald City Evening

A Broadway celebration packed with showstoppers from musicals you know and love.

Beloved Holiday Performances
November 30, 2025 | Home Alone in Concert
The film you love, with the WSO performing John Williams’ iconic score live.

December 14, 2025 | The Nutcracker
A Waco holiday tradition returns for one night only with Ballet Frontier of Texas.

Ticket Information 

Season ticket renewals are open through August 17. Subscribers can keep their seats and gain exclusive early access to purchase tickets for The Nutcracker and Home Alone in Concert—two of the most in-demand performances of the year. 

If you are a season ticket renewer, check your email for a renewal message from Waco Hall Ticket Office (whtickets@baylor.edu). 

New season subscriptions and individual concert tickets will go on sale August 18. Don’t wait—seats for popular concerts and holiday events will go quickly!