Flagstaff Symphony Orchestra Presents Two World Premieres in “Dreams of America” on October 23

Featuring new works inspired by the American Southwest and Route 66, alongside a powerful theatrical presentation of immigrant stories at Ellis Island. 

FLAGSTAFF, ARIZONA – Flagstaff Symphony Orchestra (FSO) invites audiences on a musical journey across the American experience with “Dreams of America,” presented on Friday, October 23, 2026, at 7:30 PM in Ardrey Auditorium. Featuring two world premieres, a celebration of America 250 and Route 66's centennial, and live actors bringing immigrant stories to life, this concert explores the landscapes, journeys, and dreams that have shaped America.

The concert opens with Joan Tower's Fanfare for the Uncommon Woman, a bold and triumphant work celebrating women’s achievements and bringing a welcome spotlight to the music of women composers. Audiences will then experience two world premieres with special connections to the American Southwest. Composer Benjamin Taylor's new work, “Music for a Precious Planet,” accompanied by stunning video imagery of the region created by FSO Music Director Charles Latshaw, celebrates the landscapes that surround us. Composer Nolan Stolz's Route 66 Suite honors the legendary highway during its 100th anniversary year, with music inspired by the history and character of America's Main Street.

The concert concludes with Peter Boyer's Ellis Island: The Dream of America, a moving orchestral work featuring live actors portraying immigrants who arrived in America in search of new opportunities. Through their personal stories and Boyer's evocative music, audiences will experience the hopes, hardships, and dreams of those who helped shape our nation.

Together, these works celebrate the diverse stories that make up the American experience, inviting audiences to reflect on the journeys and dreams that connect us.

Tickets for “Dreams of America” can be purchased through the NAU Central Ticketing Office online at: https://nautickets.universitytickets.com/w/default.aspx?cid=167 or by telephone 928-523-5661. Patrons can follow the FSO Facebook page or call at 928-774-5107 for additional information.

Join us for a pre-concert reception in the Kitt Recital Hall Atrium beginning at 6:00 PM, followed by the "Chat with Charles" at 6:30 PM in Kitt Recital Hall, where audiences can learn more about the music being performed.

To learn about the rest of Season 77, The Stories We Carry, visit flagstaffsymphony.org/events.

ABOUT FLAGSTAFF SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA

Flagstaff Symphony Orchestra's mission is to enrich, engage, and inspire our community through the performance of orchestral music. Founded in 1950, the FSO is a regional orchestra of 65+ musicians that reaches an audience of more than 11,000 each season. In its 77th season, it is the largest and most active nonprofit performing arts organization in northern Arizona.