BB, King of the Mississippi Blues

Celebrating the BB King Centennial

Featuring: Internationally Known Blues Artist
Vasti Jackson

Join us in a once-in-a-lifetime centennial celebration honoring the legendary BB King, the King of the Mississippi Blues, starring internationally known Mississippi recording artist, Vasti Jackson. Immerse yourself in the timeless music and enduring legacy of this iconic blues pioneer whose soulful guitar licks and heartfelt lyrics have captivated audiences for generations. Experience a night of electrifying performances, heartfelt tributes, and soul-stirring melodies that pay homage to the unparalleled talent and influence of BB King. Let us come together to celebrate a true musical icon whose impact on the world of blues is immeasurable. Don't miss this historic event celebrating the life and music of a true legend.

Vasti Jackson is a world-renowned guitarist, vocalist, composer, and producer hailing from Mississippi, the heartland of the blues. With a career spanning over fifty years, Vasti has garnered multiple Grammy nominations and a host of prestigious awards, including the 2022 JMA Lifetime Achievement Award and the 2015 Albert King Lifetime Guitar Award. He is a true renaissance man in the world of music, effortlessly traversing from blues and soul to jazz, gospel, reggae, and country.

Date: 
Saturday, April 26, 2025

Time:
7:00 p.m.

Location:
Natchez Civic Center, 215 Franklin St, Natchez, Miss.

Admission:
$35

Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart’s

THE MAGIC FLUTE

(with English Dialog)

The Magic Flute by Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart is one of the world’s most famous musical stage productions. It involves Tamino, a handsome young prince, who finds himself in a magical land between the sun and the moon. There he encounters a giant serpent, the evil Queen of the Night, and her daughter, Pamina, who is being held captive by the high priest, Sarastro. With the assistance of Papageno, a comical bird catcher, and other magical characters, Tamino is able to free and save Pamina. However, both she and Tamino must then face the terrifying ordeals and trials of water and fire together, while only being protected by his magic flute, which has the power to change men’s hearts. It is a virtuous story of triumph, courage, and wisdom overcoming evil.

It is said that The Magic Flute was the greatest operatic success of Mozart’s entire career. It is unlike anything else that he ever wrote, and is, without question, an absolute masterpiece of musical theatre. The story is a combination of serious and life-threatening situations combined with moments of side-splitting, slapstick comedy and special effects. No matter the direction the story takes, the music is always beautiful, always magical, and always Mozart!

This family-friendly, musical stage production is suitable for all ages. It’s FUN for everyone!

Date: 
Friday, May 2, 2025

Time:
7:00 p.m.

Location:
Natchez City Auditorium, 207 Jefferson St., Natchez, Miss.

Admission:
$45

 Little Red’s Most Unusual Day

A Whimsical Children’s Opera – Free Admission!

Join us for a magical morning filled with music, laughter, and a fresh twist on a classic fairytale! Little Red’s Most Unusual Day is a charming children’s opera that brings the beloved story of Little Red Riding Hood to life like never before.

This lively performance introduces audiences to:

• Granny – full of surprises and sass

• Forest Ranger Dudley – the most loveable law enforcer in the woods

• The Big Bad Wolf – not-so-scary and maybe just misunderstood

• Widow Hood – a stylish twist on a fairytale favorite

• And of course, Little Red – ready for her most unexpected adventure yet!

Perfect for children and the young at heart, this opera is an ideal introduction to live performance, featuring colorful costumes, delightful music, and lots of giggles.

Date: Saturday, May 3, 2025
Time: 10:00 a.m.
Location: Natchez Little Theater
Address: 319 Linton Avenue, Natchez, MS
Admission: FREE for Youngsters of All Ages

Presented by

Natchez Festival of Music, Opera Mississippi, and The University of Southern Mississippi

This special event is part of our ongoing commitment to arts education and making music accessible to families in our community.

No tickets are required – just show up and enjoy!

Come early, grab a seat, and get ready to experience a performance that will spark imagination and create lasting memories.

Slavic Serenade

A Musical Journey with the Szlubowska-Belsky Duo

Marta Szlubowska, Violin | Svetlana Belsky, Piano

The "Szlubowska-Belsky Duo" is an electrifying and award-winning violin-piano ensemble. Marta Szlubowska, former Concertmaster of the Mississippi Symphony Orchestra, and Svetlana Belsky, a highly acclaimed pianist based in Chicago, join forces to create a captivating musical experience. Hailing from Warsaw, Poland, and Kyiv, Ukraine, respectively, Marta and Svetlana infuse their performances with the rich tapestry of their Slavic heritage. Their synergy as both virtuoso musicians and kindred spirits shines through as they delve into their native music and engage audiences with their shared temperament and fervor for the art.

Prepare to be spellbound by iconic compositions such as Cezar Franck's "Violin Sonata" and Fryderyk Chopin's "Nocturne," alongside the enchanting melodies of Karol Szymanowski's "Myths" and Mykola Lysenko's "Romance." Through this musical journey, you will be transported to a realm of beauty and romance reminiscent of nineteenth and early twentieth-century Europe. Don't miss out on the opportunity to witness the magic of this international duo as they bring their passion and talent to the stage!

Marta Szlubowska is a concert violinist, teacher and a proud Polish-American. She is the former Concertmaster and Soloist of the Mississippi Symphony Orchestra in Jackson, Miss. (2005-2022). Her concerts have taken her to over 15 countries throughout Europe and the Americas.
Ms. Szlubowska received her Bachelor’s in Violin Performance and Artist Diploma degrees from the Peabody Institute of the Johns Hopkins University and Master’s Degree in Violin Performance from the University of Massachusetts, Amherst.

Dr. Svetlana Belsky was born in Kyiv, Ukraine, and now resides in the United States. Svetlana is a renowned recitalist, author, teacher and lecturer.  She is a Steinway Artist and the winner of The American Prize 2019 for her recording of Igor Stravinsky’s Rite of Spring. Her teaching credits include leading the Piano Program at the University of Chicago for 15 years as well as countless masterclasses in the US, Asia and Europe.  She received her Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees from the Peabody Institute and her Doctorate from the Manhattan School of Music. 

Date: 
Thursday, May 8, 2025

Time:
7:00 p.m.

Location:
Waverly, 790 Highway 61 S., Natchez, Miss.

Admission:
$35

 Behind the Legends A Conversation with Best-selling Author Ellis Nassour on Patsy Cline and Jesus Christ Superstar

Best-selling author Ellis Nassour, renowned for his celebrated biography of country music legend Patsy Cline, will present a lecture, discussion, and Q&A featuring two of his most notable works: Patsy Cline: Honky Tonk Angel and his new book Jesus Christ Superstar: Behind the Scenes of the Worldwide Musical Phenomenon. 

Patsy Cline: Honky Tonk Angel is widely regarded as the definitive biography of the iconic singer, tracing her journey from humble beginnings to stardom. Nassour explores her personality, the challenges she faced in a male-dominated industry, her mentoring of Brenda Lee, Dottie West, and Loretta Lynn, and the tragic plane crash that took her life at just 30. Just as the best of her life began, it ended; yet, the music has seen the test of time. 

Jesus Christ Superstar: Behind the Scenes of the Worldwide Musical Phenomenon explores the creation of the groundbreaking rock opera by Tim Rice and Andrew Lloyd Webber. Nassour offers insights into its origins, the fusion of rock music with Biblical themes, and its global impact on Broadway, world stages, and film. He reveals behind-the-scenes chaos, controversies, and exclusive interviews with key figures, uncovering how the production almost didn’t happen.

Nassour is a native of Vicksburg, Miss. After graduating from the University of Mississippi, he joined The New York Times, later becoming director of artist relations for Universal Pictures/MCA Music, then an editor/feature writer at the New York Daily News. He is an international arts journalist and longtime contributor to Playbill magazine. He is most proud of The Mamie and Ellis Nassour Arts & Entertainment Collection, the largest of its kind in the southeast, dedicated in memory of his parents, in the William Faulkner Archive at the University of Mississippi.

Mr. Nassour will sign copies of his books.

Complimentary coffee and pastries will be served.

Location: Elms Court - 542 John R Junkin Drive, Natchez, Miss
Date: Saturday, May 10, 2025
Time: 10:00 a.m.
Admission: Free

Always…Patsy Cline

Featuring: Diana Glaze as Louise Seger, Patricia Garner as legendary singer, Patsy Cline and Tyler Kemp and the Bodacious Bobcats Band

Experience the magic of country music with "Always...Patsy Cline," a captivating musical tribute to the legendary singer Patsy Cline. Journey back in time to the golden era of country music as you immerse yourself in Patsy's timeless hits and heartfelt ballads. Feel the emotion and soul of her music come alive on stage through stunning performances and heartfelt storytelling. Join us for a night of nostalgia, laughter, and tears as we celebrate the enduring legacy of one of country music's most beloved icons. Don't miss this unforgettable musical experience that will leave you singing along and tapping your toes all night long.

Date: 
Saturday, May 10, 2025

Time:
7:00 p.m.

Location:
Natchez City Auditorium, 207 Jefferson St., Natchez, Miss.

Admission:
$35

Patricia Garner has. B.S. in interior design from The University of Southern Mississippi and is the owner of Patricia Garner Interior Design. She has been designing and remodeling homes in Mississippi and Louisiana for the past 25 years. She was born in New York City, has a background in the arts, and has lived and traveled throughout Europe. Her mother was a Juilliard-trained opera singer.

Patricia began performing in her 40’s. In 2015 she was asked to join the Hub City Players, and then in 2016, she performed in the musical Rock of Ages. She has also performed in LOL Netflix and Chill, as well as the Reel Big Movie Concert with the FestivalSouth Orchestra. In 2019 she was in Sister Act and the Woodstock 50th Anniversary Concerts. In 2023 she was in Beauty and the Beast and sang in the FestivalSouth finale concert, Iconic. Patricia regularly performs in church and public concerts.

‘No music on earth can be compared with ours’

Unlocking the Magic of Gustav Mahler’s Fourth Symphony

Internationally-known Mahler scholar, Dr Thomas Peattie, will offer an immersive exploration of one of Gustav Mahler’s most enchanting works. His lecture will delve into the symphony’s radiant blend of innocence, nostalgia, and spiritual depth, revealing how Mahler masterfully juxtaposes simplicity with profound emotion. Through an engaging discussion of its themes, orchestration, and poetic finale—a child’s vision of heaven—Dr. Peattie will address the rich layers of meaning and innovation within this masterpiece. Whether you are a seasoned Mahler enthusiast or a curious newcomer, this journey through the Fourth Symphony will inspire awe and a deeper connection to its timeless beauty.

DR. Thomas peattie

Dr. Thomas Peattie is an Associate Professor of Music at the University of Mississippi. He holds degrees in composition and musicology from the University of Calgary and a Ph.D. in historical musicology from Harvard University. His most recent research explores the relationship between Romanticism and modernism with a particular focus on the music of Gustav Mahler and Luciano Berio. He is the recipient of fellowships from the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council of Canada, the Paul Sacher Foundation (Basel, Switzerland), the Italian Academy for Advanced Studies in America at Columbia University, and the Northrop Frye Centre at the University of Toronto.

He serves on the Advisory Board of the Gustav Mahler Research Center (Dobbiaco, Italy) and the editorial board of Mahler Dimensions: New Library of the International Gustav Mahler Society (Hollitzer Verlag, Vienna). His work has appeared in Mahler and his World (Princeton), Music, Modern Culture, and the Critical Ear (Routledge), Mahler in Context (Cambridge), The Cambridge Companion to Music and Romanticism, the Journal of the Royal Musical Association, Music and Letters, Nineteenth-Century Music Review, and Contemporary Music Review. He is the author of Gustav Mahler’s Symphonic Landscapes (Cambridge University Press, 2015) and is currently preparing a monograph on the transcribing practice of Luciano Berio.

Gustav Mahler

Gustav Mahler (1860–1911), an Austrian composer and conductor, is a towering figure of late-Romantic music, bridging the 19th and 20th centuries. Born in Bohemia, he displayed prodigious talent early, entering the Vienna Conservatory at 15. Renowned for his meticulous conducting, he led prestigious institutions like the Vienna Court Opera and New York Philharmonic.

Mahler’s compositions, especially his symphonies and song cycles, explore profound themes of life, death, love, and redemption. His symphonies are vast emotional landscapes, blending traditional forms with innovative orchestration and thematic depth. His songs, inspired by folk traditions, express universal struggles with love, nature, and loss.

Despite facing anti-Semitic prejudice and personal challenges, Mahler’s music remains a profound expression of the human condition. His emotional intensity and structural innovation profoundly influenced 20th-century music, ensuring his enduring legacy in Western classical tradition.

Date: Thursday, May 15, 2025

Time: 10:00 a.m.

Location: Historic Natchez Foundation (108 S. Commerce St.)

Admission: Free

The Heavenly Life:
A Child’s view of Heaven
Mahler- Symphony No. 4

Featuring: The Festival Chamber Ensemble,
Sarah Stembel, soprano & Jay Dean, conductor

Embark on a musical journey like no other with a breathtaking performance of Gustav Mahler's Symphony No. 4. Immerse yourself in the instrumental textures, intricate melodies, and emotional depth of this masterpiece as it unfolds before your eyes. Let the symphony's enchanting themes transport you to a realm of beauty and introspection, guided by Mahler's unparalleled musical genius. Join us for an evening of sublime artistry and profound musical expression that will leave you spellbound and inspired. Experience the sheer elegance of Mahler's Symphony No. 4 in a chamber orchestra performance that promises to be nothing short of extraordinary.

Date: 
Thursday, May 15, 2025

Time:
7:00 p.m.

Location:
Natchez City Auditorium, 207 Jefferson St., Natchez, Miss.

Admission:
$35

Sarah Stembel, Lyric Soprano

Lyric soprano Sarah Stembel, a native of New Orleans, has graced stages across the Gulf South and beyond, captivating audiences with her powerful voice and versatile performances. Most recently, Sarah was an Apprentice Artist with Sarasota Opera, where she performed in Carmen, Lucia di Lammermoor, and Luisa Miller. Prior to her time in Sarasota, Sarah performed with MiOpera as Edith in The Pirates of Penzance and with Dayton Opera as Doris Parker in Charlie Parker’s Yardbird. In the fall of 2022, she was a Resident Artist with Dayton Opera, further solidifying her reputation as an emerging talent in the operatic world.

Sarah completed her Master of Music in Opera Performance at the Maryland Opera Studio in 2021. While there, she brought to life the roles of Violante (Sandrina) in La finta giardiniera and Miss Wingrave in Owen Wingrave. In 2019, she played Musetta in La Bohème with The Natchez Festival of Music, a performance that marked a pivotal moment in her blossoming career.

A graduate of the University of Southern Mississippi, where she earned her Bachelor of Music in Vocal Performance in 2018, Sarah was featured in several productions with the Southern Opera and Musical Theatre Company. Her standout roles during this time included Christine Daaé in The Phantom of the Opera and Yum-Yum in The Mikado. Additionally, she appeared in the ensembles of Turandot, Rigoletto, Carmen, and Tosca, and participated in similar productions with Opera Mississippi.

Sarah has achieved significant success in vocal competitions, earning 1st place in the Gulfcoast Steinway Vocal Competition, 3rd place in the John Alexander National Voice Competition, 2nd place in the Voices of Mississippi Competition, and the grand prize in the Delta Symphony Concerto Competition.

 With her radiant voice and captivating stage presence, Sarah continues to establish herself as a rising star in the operatic world.

Whitney Houston…
Always Love You!

Featuring: coming soon!

Whitney Houston, also known as “The Voice,” was an iconic American singer and actress who rose to fame in the 1980s and 1990s, establishing herself as one of the greatest vocalists of all time. Born in 1963, Houston's powerful voice and incredible range set her apart in the music industry. In 2025, music enthusiasts worldwide will commemorate the 40th anniversary of Whitney Houston's groundbreaking debut album, simply called Whitney Houston. Released in 1985, this iconic record launched Houston's illustrious career and showcased her unparalleled vocal prowess. Her legacy continues to inspire and captivate audiences, four decades after its initial release. Whitney went on to release a string of hit albums, including Whitney and The Bodyguard Soundtrack, which featured the timeless classic, "I Will Always Love You."

Throughout her career, Houston won numerous awards, including multiple Grammy Awards, and achieved record-breaking success with her powerful ballads and soulful performances. Whitney Houston’s influence on the music industry is immeasurable, and she inspired countless artists with her vocal abilities and stage presence. She leaves behind a legacy that continues to resonate with fans around the world. Her impact on music and culture remains profound, solidifying her status as one of the greatest voices in the history of popular music. Come join us for our blockbuster Festival Finale, Whitney…Will Always Love You!

Date: 
Saturday, May 17, 2025

Time:
7:00 p.m.

Location:
Natchez City Auditorium, 207 Jefferson St., Natchez, Miss.

Admission:
$35