Inside the Music

Pre-Concert Activities at Orchestra Hall

A young person trying violin with the guidance of a volunteer from FRIENDS of the Minnesota Orchestra prior to a Family Concert | Photo by Darrell Owens

May 1, 2026

Prior to many Minnesota Orchestra performances, pre-concert activities at Orchestra Hall provide enriching and entertaining experiences. Come early to hear music, attend a concert preview or just hang out before the show!

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Violins of Hope: Throughout May 2026

Throughout May 2026, three violins from the Violins of Hope project will be on view beginning 90 minutes prior to concert time in the Roberta Mann Grand Foyer. Visitors must have a ticket to the concert to enter Orchestra Hall.

Israeli violinmakers Amnon (z”l) and Avshalom Weinstein have spent the last 20 years collecting and repairing 70 Holocaust-era violins and other stringed instruments from around the world, some with the Star of David on the back and others with names and dates inscribed within the instrument. Together, they have lovingly located and restored the violins to reclaim their lost heritage, give voice to the victims, and reinforce essential messages of hope, harmony and humanity.

Three of these instruments will be on display at Orchestra Hall during May, offering a rare opportunity to encounter these restored Holocaust-era violins up close and learn the stories they carry. Each instrument is both a work of craftsmanship and a witness—connecting us to the lives of the Jewish musicians who once played it and to the enduring power of hope through music. Learn more about these instruments and their history. Violins of Hope is presented in partnership with the Minnesota JCC.

Bartók’s Bluebeard’s Castle: May 8-9, 2026

On Friday, May 8, at 7:15 p.m., and Saturday, May 7, at 6:15 7:15 p.m., on the Roberta Mann Grand Foyer, audiences can enjoy local singing talents from Mixed Precipitation as they perform opera classics in the main floor lobby. Mixed Precipitation is a theater company based in the Twin Cities that has been creating original theatre productions since 2009. Its mission is to create festive theatrical events that inspire social engagement. Its signature project is outdoor opera extravaganzas touring Minnesota and Wisconsin in the summer months.

Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets™ in Concert: May 14-17, 2026

Prior to each performance of Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets™, audiences can enjoy Interactive, multimedia Harry Potter trivia with Brian Ward. Trivia will be held in the Target Atrium at 6:15 p.m. on Thursday, May 14; Friday, May 15; and Saturday, May 16. On Sunday, May 17, trivia will be held at 1:15 p.m. on the N. Bud Grossman Mezzanine.

In addition, in the Roberta Mann Grand Foyer at all four concerts, audiences can find an exhibit by the Twin City Model Railroad Museum, which brings its Hogwarts Express layout and exhibit so wizards of all ages can be the engineer and train operator for the day at Orchestra Hall.

Hindoyan and Rieppel: May 28-29, 2026

On Thursday, May 28, at 10:15 a.m., and Friday, May 29, at 7:15 p.m. in the Target Atrium, Loki Karuna will present a preview of the program's repertoire, including the Minnesota premiere of Andy Akiho's Timpani Concerto. The preview is presented in partnership with the American Composers Forum. Karuna, a New York City- and Twin Cities-based musician, producer, activist and administrator, is also the executive director of the American Composers Forum.