Gardner-Webb University Orchestra to Present Fall Concert Featuring Distinguished Soloists and Classical Favorites

Fall Concert Showcases Celebrated Soloists While Honoring Dr. Patricia Sparti’s 25th Year of Leadership

BOILING SPRINGS, N.C.—The Gardner-Webb University Orchestra, under the direction of Dr. Patricia C. Sparti, will present its fall concert on Monday, Nov. 23, at 7 p.m. in Dover Theatre on the Gardner-Webb campus. The performance will feature distinguished guest soloists, Dr. Cindy Swicegood, piano, and Hannah Bledsoe, violin, alongside a program that spans beloved orchestral masterworks and seasonal selections.

The evening will open with the final movement of Sergei Rachmaninoff’s “Piano Concerto No. 2, Op. 18,” featuring Swicegood as piano soloist. The orchestra will also perform the spirited “Farandole” from Georges Bizet’s “L’Arlésienne Suite No. 2” and conclude the first half with the powerful finale of Antonín Dvořák’s “Symphony No. 9, From the New World.”

Following intermission, audiences will enjoy Jeff Tyzik’s “A Christmas Overture” (Variations on Deck the Halls), a festive work that reimagines the holiday favorite in the styles of composers ranging from Mozart to Stravinsky. The program will continue with “Of the Father’s Love Begotten,” arranged by Matt Riley, featuring violin soloist Bledsoe and piccolo soloist Raymond Barber. The concert will conclude with “Danzón No. 2” by acclaimed Mexican composer Arturo Márquez Navarro.

Dr. Patricia Sparti is celebrating her 25th year as director of orchestral activities and principal conductor of the Gardner-Webb University Orchestra. During her tenure, she has led the ensemble through decades of growth, expanded performance opportunities for student musicians, and fostered collaborations that connect the University with the broader community. The orchestra has performed at the North Carolina Music Educators Association conference, and Sparti has been a strong advocate for student artistry, interdisciplinary partnerships, and the performance of new and diverse repertoire.

The featured piano soloist, Swicegood, is a former vocal coach and accompanist at Gardner-Webb University. She has performed throughout the United States and internationally and currently teaches private piano lessons at Wofford College. Throughout her career, she has been recognized for her collaborative artistry and commitment to music education, mentoring students and performers across multiple generations.

Bledsoe, a violinist and music educator, has been a member of the Gardner-Webb University/Community Orchestra since 2010 and performs professionally with Dean’s Duets and several regional symphonies. In addition to her performing career, she is dedicated to music education and has helped inspire young musicians through private instruction and community engagement.

Community members interested in learning more about the orchestra or future participation opportunities may contact Dr. Patricia Sparti at [email protected].

Ticket Information

Tickets are $15 for general admission. Admission is free for Gardner-Webb University students, faculty, and staff, as well as students from any institution with a valid student ID presented at the entrance.

Supporting the Future of the Orchestra

As Dr. Patricia Sparti celebrates her 25th year as music director and professor at Gardner-Webb University, the orchestra will launch a new fundraising initiative in spring 2027 titled “25 for 25.” The campaign aims to establish an orchestra endowment that will provide lasting support for student musicians and help the ensemble continue to flourish for generations to come.

Community members who would like to support the orchestra’s future through the Friends of Music program or the upcoming endowment campaign may make a gift online through the University’s giving portal.

Auxiliary aids will be made available to persons with disabilities upon request 10 working days prior to the event.  Please call 704-406-4270 or email [email protected] with your request.

Grounded in Christian faith and a supportive learning community, Gardner-Webb University provides a transformative education that prepares students to lead with purpose, serve others, and make meaningful contributions to their professions and communities for God and humanity. Located on a 225-acre campus in Boiling Springs, N.C., the University offers more than 80 undergraduate and graduate majors to students from over 27 countries. Become More at gardner-webb.edu.