Recommended Events
Reno Pops Orchestra 2025-2026 Concert Season: "Imagine!" (Free)
Alex Notes ♪♪:
An Orchestra for Everyone
The Reno Pops Orchestra seeks to help children and adults in our community explore a wide range of orchestral music. To accomplish this goal, they:
Provide free and low cost concerts in Northern Nevada and Northeastern California to as wide an audience as possible, including family and children’s concerts.
Educate and excite audiences with entertaining, accessible performances of the highest quality from a wide variety of styles, periods, and genres.
Gather regularly as a community to devoted musicians from all walks of life to share their love of a dedication to music; performing professional-level literature under an accomplished conductor.
Encourage young talent through scholarships and guest artist opportunities, their summer music camp and other quality outreach programs.
The Reno Pops is comprised of students and adults of all ages. The orchestra members come from all walks of life: Advanced high school and college students; adults who enjoy music as a hobby; school music teachers; retired folks; and professional musicians who like having a home base where they can keep their skills up between gigs.
Candlelight Concerts ($$ - $$$)
Alex Notes ♪♪: These concerts are known for their intimate, candlelit ambiance with a performance by a very talented string quartet. You will find themed concerts, such as tributes to iconic bands (such as the Beatles), as well as classical music (such as Vivaldi). They also perform special holiday programs. These concerts usually last around 60 minutes and are recommended for ages 8 and up (those under 16 must be accompanied by an adult). For tickets and information, please visit feverup.com
Artown presents: Harmony on the River
DISCOVER MUSIC -
HARMONY ON THE RIVER
Free and fun for all ages!
Alex Notes ♪♪: The Reno Philharmonic Orchestra, in collaboration with the City of Reno, is proud to present Harmony on the River, a free community concert series at the picturesque West Street Plaza, in the heart of Downtown Reno. This series aims to bring the joy of live music to the heart of our community, celebrating unity, culture, and the beauty of the Truckee River.
Join the Reno Phil every Tuesday at West Street Plaza all summer long for beautiful performances by small ensembles of Reno Phil musicians.
Food trucks @ 6:00 PM
Music begins @ 6:30 PM
Reno Phil presents: Red, White, & Flight (free)
Honoring the Past. Launching the Future.
Let Freedom Fly
Join us for a Red, White and Flight celebration, an uplifting evening honoring America’s 250th birthday. This free event will light up the sky with an awe-inspiring drone show, fill the air with a live Reno Phil concert, and elevate imaginations with an interactive expo for all ages. Experience the Fourth of July, where patriotism soars, innovation takes flight, and possibility reaches new heights at Mackay Stadium on the University of Nevada campus.
Date: July 4, 2026
Time: 6 to 10 p.m.
Location: Mackay Stadium, University of Nevada
TCMS String Chamber Music Workshop 2026 ($$)
TCMS will be presenting its String Chamber Music Workshop for area youth Saturday/Sunday August 1 & 2, and Friday/Saturday, August 7 & 8. Coaching appointments and application details will be available soon!
Reno Phil presents: Free Family Concert
Alex Notes ♪♪:
Free Family ConcertWiggles welcome, MEMORIES MADE
“There’s an electric energy in this country… all these people, so generous and open-hearted… their ideas, their dreams, their music… all flowing together like a mighty river – everything tumbling toward the future!” - Tchaikovsky describes what he’s discovered in America.
The Reno Phil presents Tchaikovsky Discovers America by Classical Kids LIVE!
Based on the actual historical event, this story tells of the great composer’s arrival in New York for the grand opening of Carnegie Hall in 1891 and his famous trip to Niagara Falls. A surprise encounter with a young American girl, Jennie, reveals much about Tchaikovsky – his life in Russia, his love of music and his fears of conducting. This is a poignant story of the meeting of old world influences and new world experiences; a tale of contrast, courage and classical music.
Audiences will enjoy more than twenty-five excerpts of the composer’s music including passages from his three famous ballets – The Nutcracker, Sleeping Beauty and Swan Lake -The 1812 Overture, First Piano Concerto and String Serenade. The music is magically woven into the drama as two actors recreate historical incidents from the composer’s life and dance story passages from his famous ballets. This delightful concert, dance and story performance is approximately 50 minutes in length and is an ideal introduction to the orchestra for young listeners.
Plaza Activities: Enjoy special activities for children on the plaza and in the concert hall lobbies related to the theme of the concert, including a coloring station, craft station, and more. Activities take place from 3:00 PM - 3:55 PM for 4:00 PM concertgoers.
Reno Wind Symphony presents: The Tradition, The Music, The Legacy ($)
Join the Reno Wind Symphony for a special celebration as we commemorate 20 years of making music together with our concert, "The Tradition. The Music. The Legacy." This memorable event will feature a curated selection of pieces from our inaugural year in 2006, highlighting the journey and evolution of our ensemble over the past two decades. Experience the joy of music that has brought us together and shaped our community, as we honor our past while looking forward to the future. Don't miss this opportunity to celebrate our legacy and the enduring power of music!
Reno Pops Orchestra presents: "Animal Adventures” (Free)
Alex Notes ♪♪: This concert has been moved to Saturday, May 16th. Mark your calendars.
An Orchestra for Everyone
The Reno Pops Orchestra seeks to help children and adults in our community explore a wide range of orchestral music. To accomplish this goal, they:
Provide free and low cost concerts in Northern Nevada and Northeastern California to as wide an audience as possible, including family and children’s concerts.
Educate and excite audiences with entertaining, accessible performances of the highest quality from a wide variety of styles, periods, and genres.
Gather regularly as a community to devoted musicians from all walks of life to share their love of a dedication to music; performing professional-level literature under an accomplished conductor.
Encourage young talent through scholarships and guest artist opportunities, their summer music camp and other quality outreach programs.
The Reno Pops is comprised of students and adults of all ages. The orchestra members come from all walks of life: Advanced high school and college students; adults who enjoy music as a hobby; school music teachers; retired folks; and professional musicians who like having a home base where they can keep their skills up between gigs.
Reno Phil presents: Movies with the Maestro ($-$$$)
Experience the magic of the movies like never before with Movies with the Maestro! Led by conductor Laura Jackson, the Reno Phil will transport you through decades of cinematic brilliance, performing critically acclaimed film scores from Hollywood’s most iconic blockbusters. Revisit the greatest film soundtracks of all time, from the sweeping adventure of The Magnificent Seven and the timeless romance of Titanic to the epic heroism of The Avengers and beyond. Don’t miss this unforgettable night of music that brings the silver screen to life—live in concert!
Reno Phil Youth Orchestra presents: Spring Showcase ($)
Alex Notes ♪♪:
The future is now! The Reno Phil welcomes all four of its Youth Orchestras to the Pioneer Center for the Performing Arts stage to showcase their hard work. See the Youth Strings Ensemble, Youth Strings Symphonia, Youth Concert Orchestra and Youth Symphony Orchestra perform as they play a variety of favorites.
The Reno Philharmonic presents: The Orchestra Moves – FREE Family Concert
Alex Notes ♪♪: Great news – the Phil has added another FREE family concert to their season this year, so this year there will be TWO! Wiggles are welcome at this concert geared towards kids. No sitting still required. Clap, wave, and discover how the orchestra moves! No advanced tickets or reservations required. A great way to introduce children to classical music.
Date: Saturday, May 9, 2026
Time: 10:00am Activities on the Plaza
11:00am concert
University of Nevada School of Music presents Harp Fest ($)
This is an annual concert celebrating the harp! Featuring harp showpieces and chamber music involving harps and other instruments. Produced and performed by University of Nevada, Reno harp instructor Marina Roznitovsky Oster with guest artists. A one-of-a-kind event that culminates with a large harp ensemble performance!
Reno Phil Education Open House (free)
You’re Invited to the Reno Phil Education Open House
Join the Reno Phil for an inside look at how the Reno Phil brings symphonic music education to thousands of young people across northern Nevada each year.
This free, family-friendly event is a chance to meet the people behind the programs, connect with musicians, and experience the impact of music education in our community.
Enjoy light refreshments including wine, beer, and snacks while you explore, learn, and take in a live performance from the Brass/Winds Discover Music ensemble.
Event Details:
Education Open House
California Building at Idlewild Park
75 Cowan Drive, Reno, NV 89509
Thursday, May 7, 2026
4:00 PM – 6:00 PM
Free and open to the public
All are encouraged to attend—whether you're a parent, educator, student, or simply curious about how music education shapes lives.
RSVP:
Please let them know you're coming: bit.ly/4mCTsXe or email rsvp@renophil.com
(An RSVP is not required, but greatly appreciated.)
Reno Phil presents: Play & Sing for a Day 2026 (free)
The registration deadline for participants is March 22nd, and no exceptions will be made. Anyone can come watch from the audience at 6pm without registering.
Play and Sing for a Day is a creative outlet for musicians of all levels and ages in our community. Through small and large group rehearsals, people will get a chance to interact, connect, and experience a day of making music together with Reno Phil musicians and chorus conducted by Laura Jackson.
This event is presented free to the community thanks to a generous grant from the City of Reno Arts & Culture Commission and sponsors Chris & Parky May, and Bill Pearce Motors.
Alex Notes ♪♪: I’ll see you there!
Reno Phil presents: Play & Sing for a Day 2026 - Registration Deadline
The registration deadline for participants is March 22nd, and no exceptions will be made. Anyone can come watch from the audience at 6pm without registering.
Play and Sing for a Day is a creative outlet for musicians of all levels and ages in our community. Through small and large group rehearsals, people will get a chance to interact, connect, and experience a day of making music together with Reno Phil musicians and chorus conducted by Laura Jackson.
This event is presented free to the community thanks to a generous grant from the City of Reno Arts & Culture Commission and sponsors Chris & Parky May, and Bill Pearce Motors.
Alex Notes ♪♪: I’ll see you there!
Reno Wind Symphony presents: A Legacy in Sound: Concert of Remembrance ($)
Join the Reno Wind Symphony in celebrating 20 years of making music together! In this concert we will be performing select pieces from our very first performance together. March with us to Sousa’s “The Glory of the Yankee Navy” and dance to Whelan’s “Riverdance”. Come celebrate this momentous occasion with us!
Toiyabe Chamber Music Society presents: A Viola Is Not A Violin (free)
Celebrating the crafts of Midtown Reno - Children are welcome!
Craft Wine & Beer, 22 Martin Street 89509
Daniel Darmesin Flanagan (violin) and Dustin Budish (viola) join Reno’s master luthier Tim Dodd for this event, in which Tim Dodd will illustrate the construction and acoustic properties of a viola compared with a violin, while Dan and Dustin present a lively competition showcasing the qualities of the two instruments.
Alex Notes ♪♪: My favorite Luthier, Mr. Tim Dodd, will be available for interaction and education. His services are available for beginners to professionals. Come rub elbows with a master.
TCMS presents concerts free of admission charge to further its goal of creating an accessible experience for diverse audiences of all ages to share and perpetuate the joy of live chamber music.
Toiyabe Chamber Music Society presents: The Bow & the Brush (free)
Celebrating the crafts of Midtown Reno - Children are welcome!
Craft Wine & Beer, 22 Martin Street 89509
Alex Notes ♪♪: The Bow and the Brush integrates the visual arts with new music. Violinist Dan Flanagan commissions and composes new works of music inspired by painting and sculptures. Images of the artworks that inspired the compositions are projected during the performance.
TCMS presents concerts free of admission charge to further its goal of creating an accessible experience for diverse audiences of all ages to share and perpetuate the joy of live chamber music.
The Reno Pops Orchestra presents: "Aurora Borealis" (Free)
Alex Notes ♪♪:
An Orchestra for Everyone
The Reno Pops Orchestra seeks to help children and adults in our community explore a wide range of orchestral music. To accomplish this goal, they:
Provide free and low cost concerts in Northern Nevada and Northeastern California to as wide an audience as possible, including family and children’s concerts.
Educate and excite audiences with entertaining, accessible performances of the highest quality from a wide variety of styles, periods, and genres.
Gather regularly as a community to devoted musicians from all walks of life to share their love of a dedication to music; performing professional-level literature under an accomplished conductor.
Encourage young talent through scholarships and guest artist opportunities, their summer music camp and other quality outreach programs.
The Reno Pops is comprised of students and adults of all ages. The orchestra members come from all walks of life: Advanced high school and college students; adults who enjoy music as a hobby; school music teachers; retired folks; and professional musicians who like having a home base where they can keep their skills up between gigs.
University of Nevada, Reno School of Music ($)
Alex Notes ♪♪: The UNR School of Music presents dozens of events throughout the year performed by students, faculty, visiting artists. These fantastic concerts are usually $12.00 for general admission, $5.00 for children. Tickets are available at the box office located right outside the concert halls. (Apex Concerts and Performing Art Series are a more expensive option, but well worth the price).
Please visit:
https://www.unr.edu/music/events
https://events.unr.edu/group/school-of-music/calendar
to find the concert that is perfect for you and your family! My family and I attend many UNR music events to watch these talented musicians and singers perform. Parking is free on arts-events evenings after 7:00pm in the Brian J. Whalen Parking Complex located north of Church Fine Arts and south of the 15th Street campus.
Reno Chamber Orchestra presents: Barber ($-$$$)
Alex Notes ♪♪: Youth & Student Tickets are always just $5
The Reno Wind Symphony presents: The Winds of Winter ($)
Alex notes ♪♪: Join the Reno Wind Symphony for their annual holiday concert. They will play a diverse selection of holiday favorites, including classic carols, contemporary arrangements, and seasonal masterpieces. It will be an unforgettable family-friendly evening that will fill your hearts with cheer and your ears with beautiful holiday melodies. Tickets are $15.00 for general admission, $5.00 for kids and seniors. Please visit renowindsymphony.com to purchase tickets.
The Reno Pops Orchestra presents: Festive Carols (free)
Alex notes ♪♪: The Reno Pops is truly an “orchestra for everyone.” Their lively concerts really showcase their devoted musicians and their dedication to providing quality, family-friendly music programming. This is all done under the baton of accomplished conductor, Maestro Jane Brown. Their concerts are always FREE, but the Reno Pops gladly accepts donations. Free parking is located in the Brian J. Whalen parking garage, 1664 N. Virginia Street.
A.V.A. Ballet Theater presents: The Nutcracker ($$$)
Alex notes ♪♪: It just doesn’t feel like Christmas until you experience the Nutcracker. Principal dancers who perform with professional ballet companies will perform leading roles alongside a large cast of local talent. A Sugar Plum Fairy party will be held after the Saturday and Sunday afternoon performances where children can meet the Nutcracker characters. Hurry – these tickets also go fast! Ticket prices range from $35.00 to $65.00 with discounts available for seniors and children. Tickets are available at pioneercenter.com, by phoning the Box Office at (775)-686-6610, or in person at the box office Monday-Friday, 10-4pm. The Box Office is located at 100 S. Virginia St, Reno, NV 89501. Purchasing tickets in person allows you to avoid convenience fees. We have found that the best place to park is in the court house parking lot located at 1 South Sierra St, Reno (across the street from the Pioneer, free on weekends and after 5:00pm weekdays).
The Reno Wind Symphony presents: The Winds of Winter ($)
Alex notes ♪♪: Join the Reno Wind Symphony for their annual holiday concert. They will play a diverse selection of holiday favorites, including classic carols, contemporary arrangements, and seasonal masterpieces. It will be an unforgettable family-friendly evening that will fill your hearts with cheer and your ears with beautiful holiday melodies. Tickets are $15.00 for general admission, $5.00 for kids and seniors. Please visit renowindsymphony.com to purchase tickets.
The Reno Philharmonic presents: Spirit of the Season, A Very Merry Road Trip: Holiday's Across America ($$$)
Alex notes ♪♪: I love the family-friendly “Spirit of the Season” shows, and I’m looking forward to going again this year with my family. The Reno Philharmonic promises to take us on a musical road trip across America! Our country’s unique holiday spirit will be captured in a symphonic celebration that’s “sure to dazzle.” Tickets for these shows go fast! You may purchase tickets on the Reno Phil’s website, renophil.com, in person at the Reno Phil Box Office in the McKinley Arts & Culture Center (925 Riverside Dr, Suite 2, Reno), or over the phone by calling the Box Office at (775)-323-6393. Box office hours are 10am to 3pm Monday-Friday. Ticket prices range from $30.50 to $79.50. We have found that the best place to park for events at the Pioneer Center is in the courthouse parking lot located at 1 South Sierra St, Reno (across the street from the Pioneer. Free on weekends and after 5:00pm weekdays).
The Reno Wind Symphony presents: Resounding Gratitude (FREE - $)
Alex Notes ♪♪: Celebrate Veteran’s Day with the Reno Wind Symphony! Bring your family along for a heartfelt evening of music and remembrance in this concert that will honor our veterans. The Reno Wind Symphony will pay tribute to the brave men and women who have served our country. From stirring marches to reflective pieces, each selection has been thoughtfully curated to evoke a sense of pride and gratitude. For tickets, please visit renowindsymphony.com. Tickets are FREE for veterans!
The Reno Wind Symphony presents: Ghoulish Delights-A Halloween Concert ($)
Alex Notes ♪♪: Join the Reno Wind Symphony for this family-friendly event, as they combine music with the thrills of Halloween. This is the perfect outing for children and parents alike. Tickets can be purchased at renowindsymphony.com
Reno Chamber Orchestra presents: 2025/2026 Season
Alex Notes ♪♪: Don’t forget to attend the free 30-minute pre-concert talks that begin 1 hour prior to each performance. For more information and tickets, please visit renochamberorchestra.org. You may also call the RCO at (775)-348-9413 and purchase tickets by phone.
Reno Chamber Orchestra presents: Musical Story Time at the Washoe County Library (Free)
Dates:
10/16/25 10:30am South Valleys Library
11/13/25 11:30am Sierra View Library
1/29/26 10:30am South Valleys Library
2/26/26 10:15am Sparks Library
4/30/26 10:30am North Valleys Library
Alex Notes ♪♪: A trio of RCO musicians play while a story is read. Geared toward young children, but open to all! Event is free but please register with the Washoe County Library to guarantee a spot. Seating is limited.
Toiyabe Chamber Music Society presents: The Not-So-Lonely Illustrated Concert Series- The Toiyabe Trio (FREE)
Alex Notes ♪♪: In this illustrated concert, musical performances are accompanied by projected images. Harpist Emily Montoya Barnes, Oboist Aaron Hill, and Violist Dustin Budish will be performing.
The Reno Philharmonic presents: The Princess Bride in Concert ($$$)
Alex Notes ♪♪: Experience this all-time favorite movie with the score played by the Reno Philharmonic Orchestra. This event is a kick-off to the Cordillera Film Festival which will feature a live panel following the performance with actors from the film starting at approximately 8:00 PM (included with ticket purchase).
AVA Ballet Theater presents: The Little Mermaid ($$$)
Alex Notes ♪♪: Most of us are familiar with this story of a beautiful mermaid and her dreams of becoming human. This will be a must-see ballet for the whole family. Maestro Laura Jackson will conduct the Reno Philharmonic Orchestra as they perform the exciting score of this Disney classic. Tickets can be purchased at pioneercenter.com.
Candlelight Concerts Sept/Oct 2025 ($$-$$$)
Alex Notes ♪♪: These concerts are known for their intimate, candlelit ambiance with a performance by a very talented string quartet. You will find themed concerts, such as tributes to iconic bands (such as the Beatles), as well as classical music (such as Vivaldi). They also perform special holiday programs. These concerts usually last around 60 minutes and are recommended for ages 8 and up (those under 16 must be accompanied by an adult). For tickets and information, please visit feverup.com
The Reno Philharmonic presents - FREE FAMILY CONCERT - Home means Nevada
Alex Notes ♪♪: We wait for this all year! The Phil’s annual FREE family concert. This year, the Phil will be exploring the State of Nevada – through music! According to the Phil’s website, this concert “with lively music, interactive moments, and a welcoming atmosphere is the perfect way to spark a lifelong love of music in kids of all ages!” I couldn’t agree more! No tickets or advanced reservations required. There will be lobby and plaza activities from 10:00am to 10:55am for concertgoers.
The Reno Chamber Orchestra Presents: The 4th annual FREE Community Concert
Alex Notes ♪♪: The RCO is once again presenting their full orchestra in the beautiful outdoor setting of the McKinley Arts & Culture Center. Please bring your picnic blankets and low-back chairs for seating closest to the orchestra. High-back chair seating is available in the rear of the concert viewing area. A wide variety of meals will be available for purchase at the Feed the Camel Food Truck Festival. Food trucks open at 5:00pm, concert begins at 5:30pm. The RCO strongly recommends early arrival to allow time for parking.