First Friday Concert Series

Welcome to our 2023-2024 First Friday Concert Series at St. John’s! All concerts begin at 12:00pm, on the first Fridays of each month, September through May, and are presented in the historic St. John’s sanctuary. Concerts are free and open to the public, followed by a luncheon with a suggested $10 donation. Free parking is available on site. *Please note our December concert will take place in the evening with tickets required.

September 1: USAF Band of the West
Spectrum Winds

Enjoy the captivating sounds of these highly-trained musicians who have dedicated themselves to serving our country as Airmen. The diverse world of chamber music for winds and percussion, including traditional woodwind literature, marches, and more, will be explored.

October 6: L. Wayne Ashley, tenor
Dr. John L. Cornelius II, piano

Celebrated Houston-based tenor, L. Wayne Ashley, brings to life the poignant stories of struggle, resilience, and triumph in a powerful program of songs entitled Beacon Calls: Sounding our Pathways to Freedom.

November 3: The TubaMeisters

A masterful blend of warmth and resonance, this quartet will feature low brass sounds to envelop listeners. The repertoire encompasses patriotic melodies, folk tunes from Germany and the Czech Republic, and a selection of well-loved popular music.

December 1: Sonoro presents A Yuletide Madrigal Dinner
*Doors open at 6:30pm, Processional begins promptly at 7:00pm

Lords and ladies, one and all, join us in the banquet hall for a feast of the eyes, ears, and stomach! An unforgettable evening with all the regal pageantry and pomp of Merrie Olde England will be splendidly brought to life through music, drama, and cuisine. Enjoy a 5-course dinner featuring authentic 15th-century recipes, while being entertained by knights, royalty, troubadours, and servants. Doors open at 6:30pm. Processional begins promptly at 7:00pm. Tickets $45.

February 2: Brittnee Simone, soprano
Dr. Wayne Ching, piano

Prepare to be enchanted by ethereal soprano Brittnee Simone in a program entitled The Expression of Love. Works by Handel, Mozart, Gilbert and Sullivan, and others.

March 1: UIW Cardinal Singers
William Gokelman, conductor

UIW’s sixteen-voice chamber choir will present unique and evocative works by Tarik O’Regan, Suzette Ortiz, Albert Becker, and more.

April 5: TLU Mariachi Oro y Negro
Yvonne Vasquez, conductor

Prepare yourself for a lively Fiesta as TLU’s Mariachi Oro y Negro delivers an electrifying and vibrant performance. Immerse yourself in the folk musical styles of Mexico, ranging from heartfelt serenades to energetic tunes.

May 3: Rachel Ferris, harp

Spanning centuries, from the Baroque era to the 20th century, this concert will showcase the harp’s versatility. The performance will include keyboard transcriptions and modern pieces, all of which highlight the harp’s distinct soundscape.