Inside the Music

Pre-Concert Activities at Orchestra Hall

A young person trying out the violin with the guidance of a volunteer from FRIENDS of the Minnesota Orchestra prior to a Relaxed Family Concert in January 2023. | Photo by Darrell Owens

March 1, 2025

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!

Sir James MacMillan with the Minnesota Orchestra: March 28-29, 2025

On Friday, March 28, at 7:15 p.m., and Saturday, March 29, at 6:15 p.m., Nicholas Landrum will host a pre-concert Q&A with guest conductor Sir James MacMillan in the Target Atrium. Their discussion will diving into the rich Scottish and Catholic influences that fuel MacMillan’s bold, deeply expressive music. From his haunting sacred choral works to his electrifying orchestral pieces—and his dynamic role as both composer and conductor—MacMillan will reveal the passions and stories behind his celebrated career. Landrum is an award-winning composer, vocalist and educator born in Philadelphia. He is the recipient of the Dean’s Prize in composition at Indiana University, where he completed his doctorate, and has had his works performed and recorded by the National Basilica Choir in Washington, D.C., and members of the Minnesota Orchestra, among many others.

Beethoven Symphony No. 6: April 3-4, 2025

On Thursday, April 3, at 10:15 p.m., and Friday, April 4, at 7:15 p.m., in the Target Atrium, the Guanchez-Nikiforov Duo will give a pre-concert performance that explores the delicate connections between Classical, late-Romantic and 20th-century compositions. Featuring pianists Inés Guanchez and Osip Nikiforov, this performance presents four-hand music by Beethoven, Fauré and Rachmaninoff.