RAPID CITY, S.D. — The Black Hills Symphony Orchestra will launch its 94th season in October, bringing a dynamic mix of classical repertoire, holiday favorites, contemporary energy and nationally recognized guest artists to the Black Hills.

Under the direction of Conductor Bruce Knowles, the 2026–27 season reflects the orchestra’s longstanding commitment to connecting the community through music performance and education. The BHSO, a community orchestra of approximately 90 musicians, has been a part of the Black Hills cultural landscape for more than 90 years. (Black Hills Symphony Orchestra)

The season opens with “Danse Macabre” on October 17, 2026, at 7:30 p.m. at the Monument Fine Arts Theater. The BHSO conjures an unforgettable Halloween spectacular, joined by the Black Hills Dance Theater for an evening of spine-tingling music from iconic films and haunting symphonic masterpieces including a chilling performance of THRILLER that will raise the dead—and bring the house down.

The BHSO continues its holiday tradition with “A Night Before Christmas” on December 5 at 7:30 p.m. at the Performing Arts Center, featuring acclaimed cellist Jolyon Pegis. Pegis, a cellist with the Dallas Symphony Orchestra, has appeared as a soloist with orchestras across the country.

The orchestra rings in the New Year with “Disco Inferno,” featuring vocalist Anverrea Bennett, on December 31 at 7:30 p.m. at the Performing Arts Center. The New Year’s Eve pops concert continues one of the BHSO’s most popular traditions, offering audiences an opportunity to celebrate the arrival of 2027 with live orchestral music.

The season continues with “Cupid’s Bow” on February 13, 2027, at 7:30 p.m., providing a unique ballad-filled date night venue for Valentines and anyone that simply loves love.

The season concludes followed by featuring acclaimed violinist Maya Anjali Buchanan on April 10, 2027, at 7:30 p.m., both at the Performing Arts Center. Buchanan, a violinist recognized for her expressive performances and exceptional musicality, grew up in Rapid City and began studying violin locally at age four. She has gone on to perform internationally and with major orchestras, including the Chicago Symphony Orchestra.

Beyond its concert series, the BHSO continues to provide educational opportunities for young musicians through programs including the Young Artist Competition, Symphony Safari and Music Memory. The orchestra’s mission is to connect the community through music performance and education, with core values centered on excellence, belonging, sustainability and collaboration.

Tickets and season-ticket information are available through the Performing Arts Center Box Office at 605-394-1786 and at bhsymphony.org. (Black Hills Symphony Orchestra)

About the Black Hills Symphony Orchestra
Founded in 1933, the Black Hills Symphony Orchestra has grown from a small group of string players into a major community orchestra serving the Black Hills region. Today, the BHSO presents a full concert season while supporting music education and collaborating with arts organizations throughout the region.

Media Contact:

Kirsten Hollenbeck
Executive Director, Black Hills Symphony Orchestra
bhso@rapidnet.com
605.348.4676

High-resolution logos and photos of the orchestra are available upon request.

Interviews with Conductor Bruce Knowles, members of the orchestra, special guests and the Executive Director can be arranged by contacting the provided media contact.