The Lafayette Symphony Orchestra (LSO) invites the community to an inspiring evening of music at its April Mainstage concert, “From Bohemia to America,” on Saturday, April 11 at 7:30 PM at the Long Center for the Performing Arts.
This dynamic program highlights both global artistry and local talent, featuring the world premiere of Cabaret Brawl by composer Edmund Thornton Jenkins. Audiences will be among the first to experience this exciting new work brought to life by the LSO.
The concert also showcases the exceptional winners of the LSO’s Keller Concerto Competition: Finnan White, a senior at West Lafayette High School, and Aria Bakhit, a junior at Lafayette Jefferson High School. Their performances highlight the remarkable talent of young musicians in the Greater Lafayette community.
In celebration of music education, the evening has been designated High School Appreciation Night. Thanks to generous donor support, more than 300 local high school students will attend the concert free of charge, reinforcing the LSO’s commitment to making the arts accessible and inspiring the next generation.
“This concert is a powerful reflection of who we are as an orchestra, honoring important voices in music history while creating space for new ones to be heard,” said Janette Brown, CEO of the Lafayette Symphony Orchestra. “We’re especially proud to spotlight these outstanding student musicians and to welcome hundreds of local high school students into the hall for what we hope is a meaningful and inspiring experience.”
The concert experience extends beyond the stage. Patrons are invited to arrive early for pre-concert music beginning at 6:35 PM, featuring a string quartet from the Wabash Valley Youth Symphony. Following the performance, guests can continue the evening at a post-concert gathering at the Lobby by Greyhouse (526 Main St, Lafayette), with live jazz provided by students from Lafayette Jefferson High School.
The LSO gratefully acknowledges concert sponsors Gene Marshall and Linda Marshall, Purdue Federal Credit Union, and Civic Theatre of Greater Lafayette for their generous support.
“From Bohemia to America” promises an evening of vibrant music, community connection, and celebration of emerging artists.
For information about upcoming events or to purchase tickets, visit lafayettesymphony.org or call 765-742-6463.
Event Details:
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Date: Saturday, April 11, 2026
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Time: 7:30 PM
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Venue: Long Center for the Performing Arts, 111 N 6th St, Lafayette, IN 47901
Kellen Gray, Conductor and Artistic Director of the Lafayette Symphony Orchestra, was born and raised in Rock Hill, South Carolina. His life has taken him on a diverse path ranging from orchestral violinist to beekeeper before turning his full-time attention to conducting. In addition to his LSO appointment, he is a frequent guest conductor of leading ensembles both nationally and internationally – ranging from the Minnesota Orchestra, National Symphony Orchestra (D.C.), and Seattle Opera, to such British ensembles as the BBC NOW, Royal Liverpool Philharmonic, and Royal Scottish National Orchestra.
About the Lafayette Symphony Orchestra
Launched in 1951 as a non-profit organization, the Lafayette Symphony Orchestra enriches the cultural life of the Greater Lafayette community and 14 surrounding counties through musical excellence and education. Approximately 80 percent of its patrons come from Lafayette, West Lafayette, and Tippecanoe County, with the remainder hailing from surrounding counties including Benton, Carroll, Cass, Clinton, Fountain, Howard, Jasper, Montgomery, Newton, Pulaski, Tipton, Warren, and White.