Florida State University’s College of Music announces its 2025–2026 concert season, a series of performances celebrating musical excellence through both beloved classics and exciting new works.
This season will feature more than 35 concerts, operas, festivals and faculty showcases so audiences can explore music that spans centuries, styles and cultures.
“This season reflects who we are as the FSU College of Music — deeply rooted in more than 125 years of musical and academic excellence while looking into the future of the musical experience,” said Greg Jones, associate dean of the College of Music. “As we celebrate our rich legacy, we also embrace the exciting possibilities that lie ahead, ensuring that our students and audiences are continually inspired by both tradition and innovation.”
The season opens Friday, Sept. 19 with the University Symphony Orchestra, led by Alexander Jiménez, professor of conducting and director of orchestral activities, featuring Ravel’s “Piano Concerto for the Left Hand,” performed by Doctoral Concerto Competition winner Molly Reid, and Respighi’s breathtaking tone poem “Pines of Rome.”
Other fall highlights include the Wind Orchestra’s tribute to legendary FSU Band Director James Croft (Sept. 26), the faculty showcase “May I Have This Dance?” (Oct. 9) and an appearance by jazz icon Helen Sung with the Honors Jazz Combo (Oct. 13).
The college celebrates the 100th anniversary of its first official orchestra concert on Wednesday, March 25, with a recreation of the 1926 program. College of Music alumna Alexandra Dee will return to conduct this concert with the women of the University Symphony Orchestra.
Opening Nights at FSU’s collaboration with the College of Music will bring world-class talent to the Capital City, with appearances by Grammy-winning country artist Kendell Marvel (Oct. 7), Grammy-winning jazz vocalist Nicole Zuraitis with FSU jazz faculty (Jan. 20), as well as celebrated international ensembles Boston Brass and Imani Winds (Feb. 3) and Sphinx Virtuosi with violinist Randall Goosby (Feb. 26).
Opera takes center stage with Massenet’s “Cendrillon” (Oct. 30-Nov. 2) and Mozart’s sparkling comedy “Così fan tutte” (April 9-12). FSU Opera will present “Dark Sisters” (May 29–30), a contemporary opera by Nico Muhly.
Featuring new music for the new year, the Festival of New Music (Jan. 29-31) returns with boundary-pushing premieres and performances. The college will also welcome the Bang on a Can All-Stars (Jan. 30), described by the New York Times as “a fiercely aggressive group, combining the power and punch of a rock band with the precision and clarity of a chamber ensemble.”
Longtime audience favorites like PRISM (Dec. 2-5), Seasonal Celebration (Dec. 7), and concerts like America 250: A Celebration (April 14) round out a season that promises inspiration, reflection and musical excellence.
The University Musical Associates (UMA) play a vital role in supporting the College of Music through concert attendance, advocacy and philanthropy. UMA members enjoy special access, reserved seating and other exclusive benefits throughout the concert season, all while helping to sustain world-class music education and performance at Florida State.
To become a member of the UMA or to purchase tickets, visit tickets.fsu.edu.