Music Events

Piccolo Spoleto music events celebrate diverse genres and traditions, including the Early Music Series with historic works by composers like Vivaldi and Bach, A World of Jewish Culture honoring rich heritage, the Young Artists Series at the College of Charleston highlighting collegiate talent, and Youth Music performances by young musicians at exceptional venues.

Ann Caldwell’s A Lesson in Spirituals – Experience an evening where sound and visual art converge in a powerful exploration of history, resilience, and cultural memory. Ann Caldwell’s Lesson in Spirituals brings to life the sacred songs born from the rice fields of the American South—songs of coded resistance, faith, and survival. Presented alongside Michelle Kaye’s exhibition AGAINST THE GRAIN, which features intricately rendered paintings of hands, feet, and thousands of grains of rice, the program creates a fully immersive experience. Together, music and imagery deepen our understanding of the labor and endurance that shaped American history, offering audiences reflection, education, and a moving collective encounter.

Performance: Saturday, May 23 at 6:00pm
Venue: Drummond Studio Gallery, 12 Line Street
Admission: $

Ann Caldwell’s Journey of Return – Journey of Return is an intimate evening of music and storytelling that traces Ann Caldwell’s family journey from Denmark, South Carolina, to Charleston and back again. Through powerful a cappella renditions of spirituals and early R&B, paired with vivid, heartfelt narratives, Caldwell brings to life stories of migration, resilience, faith, and community. Moments of deep reflection are balanced with warmth and humor, including the crowd favorite “Sister in the Outhouse.” This moving presentation invites audiences to consider their own roots and returns, offering a rich cultural experience that celebrates heritage, connection, and the enduring power of family stories.

Performance: Saturday, May 23 at 9:00pm
Venue: Drummond Studio Gallery, 12 Line Street
Admission: $

Atlanta Schola Cantorum –  A reprieve from the hectic cares of life. We are a place to slow down and enter the serene, beautiful, lyrical, complex, and sometimes even dramatic world of acapella Renaissance choral music. We present Monteverdi’s glorious Mass for 4 voices, alongside works by Hildegard von Bingen, William Byrd, Jean L’Heritier and more. Directed by Dr. Nancy Durance, come experience the wonder of Renaissance polyphony, performed in one of the most beautiful settings in Charleston.

Performance: Sunday, May 24 at 2:00pm
Venue: Cathedral of St. John the Baptist, 120 Broad Street
Admission: Donations accepted at the door

CMC TWO Spring Chamber Music Showcase

This special performance features violinists Evan Baker, Annabelle Cusatis, Elijah Liu, and Ava Whitener; violist Callie Williams; cellists Luciano Cusatis and Myles Owens-Walker; and bassist Pablo Perez—talented students of the Charleston County School of the Arts and participants in the CMC TWO educational program. Throughout the school year, these young musicians have taken part in professional coaching, masterclasses, and performance opportunities designed to develop their ensemble skills and deepen their engagement with chamber music. This concert represents the culmination of their work together.

The program includes Sonata No. 2 for Two Violins, Cello, and Bass by Gioachino Rossini and the “American” String Quartet by Antonín Dvořák.

Part of Chamber Music Charleston’s Youth Chamber Music Initiative, CMC TWO provides a supportive and rigorous environment for high school musicians with a strong interest in chamber music. All program activities are offered free of charge, made possible through the generosity of individual donors and support from the South Carolina Arts Commission.

Performance: May 27 at 7:00 pm
Venue: Circular Congregational Church, 150 Meeting Street
Admission: Free, donations accepted at the door

Lucille Simmons Whipper Tribute Concert – Ms. Lucille Simmons Whipper, a graduate of Avery Institute once denied entry to the College of Charleston, became the first Black human resources director at the College and helped to integrate The Avery Institute into the College of Charleston. She went on to become the first Black woman to serve in the state legislature.

Performance: Saturday, June 6 at 6:00pm
Venue: Second Presbyterian Church, 342 Meeting Street, Charleston
Admission: $15-$30

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Charleston Men’s Chorus Memorial Day Concert

Join the Charleston Men’s Chorus for a patriotic tribute to the brave men and women who have served our country. This powerful Memorial Day concert features a selection of patriotic anthems, uplifting spirituals, and moving choral arrangements that honor the sacrifices of our nation’s heroes. Held in the historic St. Philips Church at 12 p.m., this annual tradition brings together the community for an afternoon of reflection, gratitude, and inspiring music.

Do not miss this heartfelt performance that celebrates the true meaning of Memorial Day through song.

 

Performance:  Monday, May 25 at 12:00pm, St. Philip’s Church, 142 Church Street
Admission: General Admission $25; Students $10; Children 10 and under FREE, PURCHASE TICKETS

Charleston Musical Heritage Series featuring music of Charleston’s history, from gospel to Gershwin, has been a Festival favorite for nine years. This year the series has expanded to include concerts featuring artists from The Sound of Charleston performing gospel, jazz, and Gershwin selections reflective of this city’s rich musical heritage.  All concerts at Circular Congregational Church, 150 Meeting Street. Admission: $16-$28, PURCHASE TICKETS

The Sound of Charleston: America 250 Edition – Now in its 16th season, The Sound of Charleston continues to be a Piccolo Spoleto favorite. The program highlights Charleston’s rich musical heritage, from gospel spirituals to the music of George Gershwin, light classics of the St. Cecelia Society, Civil War camp songs and jazz standards. Performers include Ann Caldwell, former Mayor John Tecklenburg, the Bright Family Singers, and a host of other Lowcountry legends.

Gershwin & Jazz –This special Piccolo Spoleto concert will feature an entire 75 minute program of Jazz and the iconic music of George Gershwin. Come hear former Charleston Mayor John Tecklenburg on piano and Jon Philips on saxophone play jazz and explain the important role that art form played in the city’s history. Then be enthralled by vocalists Diamond Tyler and Ramelle Brooks singing highlights from Gershwin’s immortal opera “Porgy and Bess”. The program concludes with Gershwin’s iconic “Rhapsody in Blue” performed by pianists Ghadi Shayban and Maida Libkin. Don’t miss this perennial Festival favorite.

Oh Happy Day Gospel Concert: America 250 Edition –Gospel music and spirituals are deeply ingrained in Charleston’s history. Over half of all slaves imported to the United States arrived right here at the port of Charleston. It is said that the slaves used spirituals to “sing themselves happy”, even while living and working in servitude. Local gospel legends The Bright Family and Singers, along with Lowcountry Music Hall of Fame member Ann Caldwell will present an emotional and entertaining program of gospel music. Be prepared to clap your hands, stomp your feet and join in this joyous 75 minute musical celebration.

Celebrate America’s 250th with the joyful sound of four-part a cappella harmony as Charleston Sound Chorus takes the stage at the Piccolo Spoleto Festival! This award-winning chapter of Sweet Adelines International brings passion, precision, and that signature barbershop “ring” to a spirited, all-American program.

Under the direction of internationally acclaimed baritone David Templeton, the chorus will present Red, White, and Ringing: The Barbershop Tradition—a vibrant musical tribute to freedom, unity, and community. Enjoy familiar favorites, rich harmonies, and performances by some of their dynamic quartets, all woven together with the energy and sparkle that define barbershop music.

Join us for an uplifting celebration of harmony, heritage, and the enduring spirit of American song—you might even find yourself singing along!

Performance: June 7 at 4:00pm
Venue: Cathedral of St. Luke & St. Paul, 126 Coming Street
Admission: $15 General Admission; $10 Children 12 and under  PURCHASE TICKETS

Performance: Sunday, May 31 at 7:00pm
Venue: Circular Congregational Church, 150 Meeting Street
Admission: General admission $30, Students (with ID at the door) $15, Children (12 and under) are FREE
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Experience the versatile artistry of Christopher Laughlin, a Chicago-based virtuoso who has performed in over 25 nations on five continents. This dynamic program bridges the gap between tradition and innovation, featuring well-loved classical masterworks by Bach and Torroba alongside the passionate intensity of flamenco guitar. The program concludes with high-energy, original arrangements of hits by The Beatles, The Who, and Crowded House, utilizing modern special effects to transform the acoustic guitar into a full-scale musical experience. A thrilling, genre-defying performance perfect for all music lovers!

Performance: May 28 at 7:00pm
Venue: Second Presbyterian Church, 342 Meeting Street
Admission: $25 PURCHASE TICKETS

Performance: May 30 at 6:00pm
Venue: Circular Congregational Church, 150 Meeting Street
Admission: $25 PURCHASE TICKETS

Classical Pride Charleston is a celebration of LGBTQIA+ community in Classical Music. It will feature LGBTQIA+ composers both past and present, as well as performers who identify with or provide allyship for the LGBTQIA+ community.

This year’s feature piece is George Gershwin’s Piano Concerto in F
With:
The Classical Pride Chamber Orchestra, The Unitarian Church of Charleston’s Chancel Choir
The Palmetto Vocal Collective, Vox Insolita

Performance: May 31 at 4:00pm
Venue: Unitarian Church Charleston, 4 Archdale Street
Admission: $30; $25 for Students PURCHASE TICKETS

Drayton Hall Elementary Bobcat Chorale – Enjoy an enchanting evening where young voices sing lullabies and dream-inspired songs from around the globe.

Performance: Tuesday, May 26 at 7:00 pm
Venue: Grace Church Cathedral, 98 Wentworth Street
Admission: Free, donations accepted

Now celebrating our 40th season, the Early Music Series continues its tradition of bringing timeless masterpieces to life at historic Old St. Mary’s. This year’s program offers an exciting and varied lineup featuring Spartina Consort, Charleston Baroque, members of the Charleston Symphony, and the Avanti Guitar Trio. Spanning the Renaissance, Baroque, and early Classical eras, these performances are presented in a setting whose remarkable acoustics and historic character reflect the way this music was originally meant to be experienced.

Venue: St. Mary’s Catholic Church *unless otherwise noted
Address: 95 Hasell Street
All concerts 3 pm – one hour in length.  Admission: $30, PURCHASE TICKETS

It Must Be Somewhere – Gallus Camerata presents an acapella performance connecting the earthly and sacred-singing works that explore the natural word, the divine spirit, and the human condition.

Performance: Monday, June 1 at 3:00pm
Venue: Unitarian Church in Charleston, 4 Archdale Street
Admission: Free, donations accepted

59-Bell Carillon Concerts at The Citadel, 171 Moultrie Street

Memorial Day Outdoor Concert on the 59-Bell Carillon
The Citadel, The Military College of South Carolina
Monday, May 25th at 11:00am
Michael Varnadore, Carillonist will continue the celebration with your favorite patriot tunes on the outdoor 59-Bell Carillon. Outdoor seating is provided or you can bring a blanket and have a picnic lunch under the great oaks that line the avenue. Rain or Shine. Admission is Free. Donations are Appreciated.
 
Outdoor Concert on the 59-Bell Carillon 
The Citadel, The Military College of South Carolina
Saturday, May 30th at 11:00am
Michael Varnadore, Carillonist with Judy Ogden, Carillonist will present two 30-Minute Concerts of international Carillon Music. Show Tunes, Standards and familiar tunes. Get ready for a couple duets including Phantom of the Opera! Outdoor seating is provided or you can bring a blanket and have a picnic lunch under the great oaks that line the avenue. Rain or Shine. Admission is Free. Donations are Appreciated.

Lowcountry Inspirations with Ron Daise – Lowcountry Inspirations is a dynamic 45-minute journey into the heart of Gullah Geechee culture led by renowned performer, author, and cultural interpreter Ron Daise. Through music, storytelling, and engaging conversation, Daise shares the themes, traditions, language, and lived experiences that have shaped his four decades of cultural work. Known to many as “Mr. Ron” from the award-winning Gullah Gullah Island, he brings warmth, wisdom, and authenticity to the stage. This interactive presentation invites audiences to add their voices and affirmations, creating an uplifting, communal celebration of Lowcountry heritage that is both educational and soul-stirring.

Performance: Thursday, June 4 at 6:00pm & 9:00pm
Venue: Drummond Studio Gallery, 12 Line Street
Admission: $

Memorial Day Concerts at the Citadel
Michael Varnadore, organist will be playing the 4-Manual Zimmer Pipe Organ – one of the largest in the state. You will hear all your favorite patriotic songs as we celebrate those who have given Military service to protect our Country. The big finale will be a rousing version of our National Anthem!
Performance: Sunday, May 24 at 4:00pm
Venue: Summerall Chapel at The Citadel, 171 Moultrie Street
Admission: Free, donations accepted

The Mike Fritz Quartet: An Evening Dedicated to the Great American Songbook–and its place in jazz history.  The Mike Fritz Quartet specializes in the Great American Songbook–but they are so much more!  Led by vocalist/pianist Mike Fritz, this highly acclaimed quartet can easily navigate the far reaches of American jazz, whether it’s swing, stride, bebop, modal, fusion, or jazz funk.

The band regularly hosts an educational concert where each song from the Great American Songbook is introduced in its historical context. The band then demonstrates how The Great American Songbook became the bedrock of modern jazz. For example, “Blue Skies” (1928) written by Irving Berlin is played first and then “In Walked Bud” (1947) by Thelonious Monk is played second; the latter is based on the harmonic structure of the former.

All band members are alumni of different music colleges and have been performing professionally in the metro Charleston area for many years. The ensemble currently plays at the CharlesTowne Fermentory and Commonhouse Ale house, to name just a few venues.

Performance: June 6 at 6:00pm
Venue: Circular Church, 150 Meeting Street
Admission: $15 General Admission PURCHASE TICKETS

Following last year’s success, Charleston Library Society’s friends and musicians from the College of Charleston and the Charleston Symphony Orchestra come together to perform one of the greatest works in the chamber music repertoire, Dvorak’s Piano Quintet, as part of Charleston’s Piccolo Spoleto Festival. Yuriy Bekker, violin Micah Gangwer, violin Seth Van Embden, viola Benjamin Mekinulov, cello Tom Hicks, piano

Performance: Wednesday, May 27 at 6:00pm
Venue: Charleston Library Society, 164 King Street
Admission: $30 PURCHASE TICKETS

Music at Noon at Circular Congregational Church, 150 Meeting Street

Admission: FREE, donations accepted, doors open at 11:30am.

Monday, May 25
Lime and the Coconuts – This fun loving 5-piece Lowcountry band performs hip swaying Americana music for everyone, from kids to elders.  As the Sierra Club Oyster Roast band on Bowen’s Island for 16 years, Lime and the Coconuts brings a joyful hip swaying sound to the Lowcountry. The Coconuts are professional musicians: bassist Jeff Narkiewicz attends rhythms, clarinetist Matt Sciarro and saxophonist Keith Namm swing leads, ukulele and banjo and guitarist Noodle McDoodle brings a vintage melody to the mix. Mary Edna, the Lime, is a singer songwriter playing accordion, guitar, mandolin, and banjo. Captivating lyrics move from 1910 to current concerns while music dances with horns, from Charleston to swampy Swimming in an Alligator Pond.  https://limeandthecoconuts.bandcamp.com

Tuesday, May 26

Ellie Jos and John Holenka

Wednesday, May 27
Alva Anderson and Frank Duvall – Let’s Duet! Vocal and String Bass- Alva Anderson and Frank Duvall,  Exploring the power of two!  Frank and Alva have been making music together for almost 10 years. It is always a joy for them to share the stage.  They intend to explore duets in the style of Alva’s former teacher, Sheila Jordan and her duo recordings with Cameron Brown and Steve Swallow. Because Alva is “crazy ’bout that bass”!

Thursday, May 28

Ann Caldwell – Ann Caldwell has lived and worked in Charleston, South Carolina since 1955 and has been making her living as a vocalist and performing artist, singing jazz, and R & B, Pop, Folk, Gospel and Spirituals. She is the director of the Magnolia Singers (an a cappella singing group). During the onset of the COVID-19 virus, she wrote and produced a video presentation entitled “Exodus” for the Gibbes Museum of Art. She has authored a children’s book entitled “Going to See a Man about a Cow”.  This performance features acapella arrangements of the spirituals and other popular songs.

Friday, May 29

Mark Rapp

Monday, June 1

Music of the Two Rivers

Tuesday, June 2
Peter Kfoury and Delia Charkier World Music – Immerse yourself in the Global Music vibe with soothing and thoughtful sounds from the Near East to Native American. Delia Chariker’s beautiful voice stir memories of her Native ancestors while her flute soulfully reaches out to all of us. Peter Kfoury, a virtuoso Oud (Near Eastern/North African Lute) player, blends the exotic melodies and rhythms of that part of the world with his American influences of Jazz, Blues and Rock. Delia and Peter will play both together and solo, so in this concert you will find music to move to, meditate to, and just plain feel good to!

Wednesday, June 3

Bill Carson and Ron Wiltrout – Bill Carson (guitar) and Ron Wiltrout (percussion) have played together in a delightful array of musical idioms over the past two decades, including experimental chamber works, rock n’ roll noise, golden age Cuban canciones, and moody post rock, all of which have informed their shared creative vocabulary. For this concert, they will offer those assembled a set of lush and spacious compositions and improvisations. Come chill out with Carson and Trout!

Thursday, June 4
The Top Notes 8-Hand Piano Ensemble – The Top Notes Piano Ensemble performs music arranged for 8-hand piano enlivened with wit, humor and commentary. The musicians, all life-long pianists and music educators, have crafted a repertoire that ranges from popular songs to classical pieces that have delighted audiences throughout South Carolina. Hearing four pianists playing two pianos at once and watching the choreography of 40 fingers is a rare and exciting musical experience.

Friday, June 5
Leah María Suárez & Friends present Las Américas: Port a Puerto.  Inspired by sea and song, multilingual vocalist and Charleston native, Leah María Suárez, performs arrangements rooted in popular folk and jazz repertoire spanning the Americas – North, Central and South. Las Américas illuminates the interconnectedness of shared history and liberation in struggle, strength, and truth in story, transcending borders through song. This special collaboration will feature Jonathan Lovett on piano and Kevin Hamilton on bass.

Join The New South Festival Singers as we conclude our 41st season with most this amazing day, a powerful program centered on peace, gratitude, and spiritual reflection. This fall concert draws on the rich legacy of American Shaker songs, paired with choral works spanning from the Renaissance to the 21st century. Kevin Siegfried’s Shaker Songs serve as musical guideposts, shaping a narrative that moves through themes of peace, love, radiance, sorrow, and eternity. Unified by the enduring clarity of the Shaker tradition, this concert invites listeners into a space of quiet joy and deep connection. Come be moved. Come sing in spirit with us. The Atlanta-based New South Festival Singers, formerly William Baker Festival Singers, has been a Piccolo Spoleto favorite, performing annually to capacity audiences since 1989. In our 2026 performance we welcome new Music Director & Conductor Thomas Dixon.

Performance: Monday, May 25 at 3:00pm
Venue: Circular Congregational Church, 150 Meeting Street
Admission: Free to attend, donations accepted

Palmetto Choral Collective “Sing Me a Story” – An uplifting and interactive concert for all ages celebrating Charleston County Library’s summer reading program theme, “Endless Eras: Endless Stories,” through fun musical storytelling from the youth singers of Palmetto Choral Collective.

Performance: May 29 at 11:00am
Venue: Charleston County Public Library, 68 Calhoun Street
Admission: Free
Pluff Mud Players are a local performing group consisting of Trinity Montessori students from the St. Gregory and St. Cecelia choirs. The group performs both sacred and non-sacred music specializing in Advent/Christmas Lessons and Carols, standard repertoire, musicals and operettas. Children in Trinity’s Pluff Mud Players receive a comprehensive music education including theory, voice, sight-singing, reading music, instruments, acting and performance.

Performance Dates: May 28 at 3:00pm
Venue: St. Stephen’s Episcopal Church,  67 Anson Street
Admission: Free

2026 Scottish Performing Arts Classic

All events take place at South Carolina Society Hall, 72 Meeting Street

MORE INFORMATION & PURCHASE TICKETS

South Carolina Society Hall, located at 72 Meeting Street in downtown Charleston, is a premier, historic venue built between 1799 and 1804, offering an elegant, quintessentially Charleston atmosphere just perfect for hosting The Clan Donald Trust for the Gaelic Performing Arts in partnership with the Robert Burns Society of Charleston 2026 Scottish Performing Arts Classic – a premier international event for the performance Gaelic Arts.

The venue is ADA accessible with an elevator. While there is no dedicated on-site parking, parking is available on surrounding streets and in nearby garages.

As part of the Piccolo Spoleto series, this year’s 2026 Scottish Performing Arts Classic showcases world-class performers (hailing from Australia, Canada, Scotlan2d, New Zealand and the USA) competing during four events of the 2026 Scottish Performing Arts Classic – the Angus Katie McDonald Memorial Prize for Ceol Beag (Bagpipes), the Joseph MacDonald Memorial Prize for Piobaireachd (Bagpipes), the Princess Margaret of the Isles Memorial Prize for Clarsach (Harp) and the Dan Rory MacDonald Memorial Prize for Scottish Fiddle (Fiddle).

June 5

1:30-3:30 pm
Angus Katie McDonald Memorial Prize for Ceol Beag
PURCHASE TICKETS

4:30-6:30pm
Joseph MacDonald Memorial Prize for Piobaireachd
PURCHASE TICKETS

1:30-6:30 pm
One Day Bundle – June 5 Both Events
PURCHASE TICKETS

June 6

1:00-3:00pm
Princess Margaret of the Isles Memorial Prize for Clarsach
PURCHASE TICKETS

4:00-6:00pm
Dan Rory MacDonald Memorial Prize for Scottish Fiddle
PURCHASE TICKETS

1:00-6:00pm
One Day Bundle – June 6 Both Events
PURCHASE TICKETS

Embark on a musical journey to the vibrant streets of Brazil with Charleston-based, Porto Seguro. With Alva Anderson’s soulful voice as the centerpiece, backed up with impressive instrumentals and solid grooves, the band delivers an energetic, heartfelt Piccolo Spoleto tribute to Brazilian bossa nova, samba, choro, and MPB tunes. The rest of the band comprises Susan Conant on flute, John Holenko on mandolin, Tom Noren on guitar, John Kennedy on bass, and Bryce Waldron-Noren on drums. Their program of Brazilian favorites and lesser-known but equally terrific tunes will make your toes tap and your heart sing.

Venue: Gage Hall, 4 Archdale Street
Admission: $25 General Admission; $10 Students under 21 PURCHASE TICKETS

The professional 8-voice group, STELLARUM, is dedicated to bringing diverse programs of choral music to audiences across the Southeastern United States and internationally.  Singing works from a rich legacy of centuries of repertoire, STELLARUM performs without a conductor with each member contributing to the rehearsal process. Their one-hour program, “Faire is the Heaven – Songs of Love, Songs of Mortality, Songs of Reflection”, features stunningly beautiful and iconic choral masterpieces by Arnesen, Bairstow, Bruckner, Harris, Parker, Parton, Paulus, Pearsall, Prior, Stanford, Trotta, Tallis, and Walton. STELLARUM will be performing this program across Ireland before appearing at Piccolo Spoleto.  STELLARUM’s singers are all church musicians with a range of additional professional experiences including performance, conducting, composition, and teaching in secondary and higher education. Emphasizing the uniquely human and unifying nature of choral music, STELLARUM’s motto since the beginning has been “eight voices, one heart”. www.stellarum8voices.com

Join Brazilian music ensemble, Porto Seguro, for a dynamic afternoon that blends the classical concert hall with the sun-drenched, soulful grooves of Brazil. This Piccolo Spoleto event is  a vibrant fusion that promises to bridge the gap between European classical music and the heart of Brazil and will include works by:

J.S. Bach, reimagined through the syncopated, high-energy lens of Choro.

Heitor Villa-Lobos, the master who famously inserted the Brazilian soul into his classical compositions.

Tom Jobim, whose iconic Bossa Nova sound was deeply inspired by the shimmering harmonies of Impressionist masters like Debussy and Ravel.

Charleston-based Porto Seguro performs Brazilian samba, bossa, and MPB. Local jazz favorite, Alva Anderson’s captivating voice is at the heart of the band. Along with instrumentalists, Susan Conant, flute; John Holenko, mandolin; Tom Noren, guitar; John Kennedy, bass; and Bryce Waldron-Noren, drums, the band plays Brazilian favorites and lesser-known but equally terrific tunes to make your toes tap and your heart sing.

Performance Dates: May 24 at 3:00 pm
Venue: Gage Hall, 4 Archdale Street
Admission: $25 General Admission; $10 Students under 21 PURCHASE TICKETS

Winston-Salem Choral Artists present The Sacred Veil – An intimate portrait of life, love, and loss, The Sacred Veil is a deeply moving and contemplative work featuring texts by acclaimed poet Anthony Silvestri alongside journal entries by his wife, Julie, whose life and experience form the heart of the piece. The work traces a powerful emotional journey through joy, devotion, grief, and remembrance. Centered on Julie’s experience with ovarian cancer and her loss of both life and family, the narrative is presented with profound respect and emotional honesty. Audience members should be aware of its subject matter, particularly those sensitive to themes of illness and loss. The performance lasts approximately one hour and is presented without intermission.

Performance Dates: June 5 at 7:30pm
Venue: Cathedral of St. Luke & St. Paul, 126 Coming Street
Admission: Free, donations accepted

A World of Jewish Culture at Piccolo Spoleto 2026
Inaugurated in 1998 as a joint project of the Yaschik/Arnold Jewish Studies Program at the College of Charleston, in cooperation with the Piccolo Spoleto Festival, A World of Jewish Culture at Piccolo Spoleto has brought Jewish music, film, and celebration to Charleston every year since. This year’s series is sponsored by the Herzman-Fishman Fund and the Seltzer-Lovinger Endowment for Jewish Cultural Programming.

The Kletztonians (75 min)
Have you ever heard music so engaging that you couldn’t resist moving your body and within minutes you find yourself jumping up and down to the beat? The Kleztonians provide this phenomena at every event. Comprised of several of the finest, most accomplished musicians in the Southeastern US, The Kleztonians fuse Eastern European music with Hip-Hop, Jazz and Progressive Rock to create an inspiring experience for all listeners.

Performance: Sunday, May 31 at 3:00pm
Venue: Kahal Kadosh Beth Elohim – KKBE
Address: 90 Hasell Street
General Admission: $15
Two Concert Bundle: $40
PURCHASE TICKETS

Jewish Voices in Classical Chamber Music (60 min)
Experience an intimate evening of chamber music at the beautiful KKBE Synagogue, featuring a distinguished ensemble of artists. Violinist Yuriy Bekker is joined by five-time Grammy-nominated classical guitarist Mak Grgić, renowned violinist Anyango Yarbo-Davenport, violist Michael Klotz, and Charleston Symphony principal cellist Benjamin Mekinulov. The program pairs Mendelssohn’s masterful String Quartet in A minor with Mario Castelnuovo-Tedesco’s vibrant Guitar Quintet. These works showcase both emotional depth and lasting influence. Castelnuovo-Tedesco’s compositions left a lasting mark on Hollywood music. Join us for this inspiring concert celebrating the rich legacy of Jewish composers and their enduring contributions to our cultural heritage.

Performance: Sunday, May 31 at 6:00pm
Venue: Kahal Kadosh Beth Elohim – KKBE
Address: 90 Hasell Street
General Admission: $30
Two Concert Bundle: $40

The Piccolo Spoleto Young Artists Series features emerging artists in the area.  Concerts, performed by advanced collegiate students and recent graduates as they springboard into their music careers.  Each concert is varied with disciplines of piano, voice, strings and woodwinds plus a concert each by the top jazz combo at CofC and a concert by the Steel Drum ensemble.

Admission: $12 General Admission; $10 Students and Seniors PURCHASE TICKETS

Monday, May 25 • My Romance
Repertoire includes Borodin String Quartet No. 2 in D Major — David Gadsden & Messiah Taylor (violins), Autumn Buchta (viola), Hayden Rucker (cello); Rossini’s Cruda sorte from L’italiana in Algeri – Meleana Cabales (mezzo-soprano); Brahms’ Zwei Gesänge – Xandra Smith (mezzo-soprano) & Zach Butler (cello); Mendelsohn’s Violin Concerto in E minor, Op. 64, 1st mvt. – Cecily Wright (violin); Lalo’s Symphonie Espagnole, 3rd mvt. – Danny Maniscalco (violin); Brahms’ Capriccio, Op. 76, No. 1 – James Love (piano)

Tuesday, May 26 • To Infinity and Beyond
Repertoire includes Prokofiev’s Cello Sonata, 2nd & 3rd mvts. – Isaac Hill (cello); Ravel’s Alborada del gracioso from Miroirs – James Love, piano; Ives art songs – Jimmy Cyganek (baritone); Prokofiev’s Visions fugitives, Op. 22 – James Love, piano; Gallagher’s art songs – Laila Dye-Sharpe (soprano)

Wednesday, May 27 • What’s Opera, Doc?
Scenes from Mozart’s Le Nozze di Figaro: Act I Trio Cosa sento – Colin Covington (baritione), Julia Boughter (soprano), Casey Grantham (tenor) and Act III duet, Sull’aria – Laila Dye-Sharpe & Hannah Brusch (sopranos); Delibes’ Lakme, Flower Duet – Ollie (soprano), Mollie Olstrom (mezzo); Wagner’s Siegmunds Liebeslied – Jimmy Cyganek (Tenor); Ward’s The Crucible, I Do Not Judge You, John – Meleana Cabales (mezzo-soprano); Donizetti’s La Favorita, O mio Fernando – Xandra Smith (mezzo-soprano); and L’elisir D’amore, Prendi, per me sei libero – Julia Boughter; Menotti’s The Old Maid and the Thief, Steal Me Sweet Their – Laila Dye-Sharpe (soprano); Korngold’s Die Tote Stat – Mein sehnen – Colin Covington (baritone)

Thursday, May 28 • Isn’t It Romantic
Repertoire includes Schubert’s String Quintet in C Major, D 956, 1st mvt. — Danny Maniscalco & William Railey (violins); Autumn Buchta (viola); Issac Hill & Anna Jones (cello); Chopin’s Ballade No. 3 in A-flat major, Op. 47 – Othniel Gort (piano); Brahms’ Zegeunerlieder – Laila Dye-Sharpe (soporano); Saint- Saens’ Violin Concerto No 3 in B minor, op 6, 1st mvt. – Messiah Taylor (violin); Saint Saens’ Cello Concerto 1st mvt. – Lucas Peine (cello)

Friday, May 29 • American Songbook
This ever-popular concert features the College of Charleston’s top jazz combo of Aidan Johnson (piano), Michael Ahern (bass), Brice Waldron-Noren (drums) play their renditions of great jazz standards.

Monday, June 1 • I’ll Take Romance
Repertoire includes Schumann’s Piano Quartet in E flat Major, Op.47 – Messiah Taylor & David Gadsden (violins), Samira Shokrian (cello), James Love (piano); lieder of Wolf – Julia Boughter (soprano); Elgar’s Cello Concerto 1st mvt. – Hayden Rucker (cello); Bruch’s Violin Concerto No.1 in G minor, Op. 26 2nd mvt. – David Gadsden (violin); Brahms’ Cello Sonata in e minor, Op. 38, 1st mvt. – Anna Jones (cello); lieder of Schubert – Mason Gray (baritone)

Tuesday, June 2 • Go for Baroque
Repertoire includes Handel’s See the raging Flames Arise from Joshua – Jimmy Cyganek (baritone); Bach’s Cello Suite No.1 in G major, BWV 1007 – David Gadsden (violin); Bach’s Prelude and Fugue in A-flat major, BWV 862 — Alina Galiyeva (piano); Bach’s Suite 4 in E flat – Isaac Hill (cello); Bach’s Prelude and Fugue in B-flat major BWV 866 – Othniel Gorg

Wednesday, June 3 • A Day with the Romantics
Repertoire includes Breval’s Cello Sonata, 1st mvt. — Bailey Ceurvorst (cello); chasson of Debussy – Isaac Hill (tenor); Bruch’s Violin Concerto No.1 in G minor, Op. 26, 3rd mvt. – William Railey (violin); Grieg Cello Sonata, 1st mvt. — Samira Shokrian (cello); lieder of Schubert – Jimmy Cyganek (baritone)

Thursday, June 4 • Mostly Mozart
Repertoire includes Mozart’s Clarinet Quintet in A Major, K581, 1st mvt. — Cecily Wright & Piper Walden (violins), Natalie Gizzo (viola), Bailey A. Ceurvorst (cello), Annie Rogers (clarinet); Beethoven’s Duo in C major for violin and cello, 1st mvt. — Anna Ilie (violin), Ian Suthon (cello); Ach ich fühls from Mozart’s Die Zauberflöte – Julia Boughter (soprano); Parto ma tu ben mio from La clemenza di Tito – Meleana Cabales (mezzo-soprano); Mozart’s Sonata in C major, K. 330, 1st mvt. – Xandra Smith (piano); Violin Concerto No 2, in D major, K211, 1st mvt. – Piper Walden (violin); Smanie implacabili from Così fan tutte — Xandra Smith (mezzo-soprano)

Friday, June 5 • Steel Band
The College of Charleston Steel Band plays the music of Trinidad including both the Calypso and Soca styles. With works by Lord Kitchner, Liam Teague and many more Trinidadian artists and songs by popular artists like John Lennon and Van Morrison, this concert is sure to be a rare treat!

This concert features South Carolina’s next generation of young composers from across the state. Each has earned awards in national, regional, state, and local composition competitions. Join us at Piccolo Spoleto 2026 to support these rising artists at the start of their musical journeys—before their works are heard in films, commercials, and concert halls worldwide.

Performance: June 5 at 6:00pm
Venue: Parkside Church, 43 Moultrie Street
Admission: Free, donations accepted