Arkansas Celebrates Musical Legends with Live Events

Rosetta Tharpe tribute in Dyess and Bach performance by Chris Thile in Little Rock

Apr. 8, 2026 at 9:30pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

An extreme close-up photograph of a shimmering, golden mandolin, capturing the intricate textures and dramatic lighting to conceptually represent the virtuosity of a classical music performance.Acclaimed mandolinist Chris Thile brings his virtuosic skills to Arkansas, performing Bach's timeless works on the gleaming, golden instrument.Dyess Today

Arkansas is set to host two notable live music events this week - a tribute to gospel icon Rosetta Tharpe in her hometown of Dyess, and a performance of Bach's works by acclaimed mandolinist Chris Thile at the Walton Arts Center in Little Rock.

Why it matters

These events highlight Arkansas' rich musical heritage, from its gospel roots to its classical traditions. The Rosetta Tharpe tribute celebrates the life and influence of a pioneering Black artist, while Thile's Bach performance brings world-class musicianship to the state.

The details

On Thursday, the Dyess Colony Visitors Center will host a special tribute to Rosetta Tharpe, the influential gospel singer and guitarist who was born in Dyess in 1915. The event will feature live music, storytelling, and reflections on Tharpe's lasting impact on American music. Meanwhile, on Friday, Grammy-winning mandolinist Chris Thile will take the stage at the Walton Arts Center in Fayetteville to perform Bach's Sonatas and Partitas for solo violin, showcasing his virtuosic skills on the mandolin.

  • The Rosetta Tharpe tribute in Dyess will take place on Thursday, April 10, 2026.
  • Chris Thile's Bach performance at the Walton Arts Center is scheduled for Friday, April 11, 2026.

The players

Rosetta Tharpe

A pioneering gospel singer and guitarist who was born in Dyess, Arkansas in 1915 and went on to become a major influence on rock and roll music.

Chris Thile

A Grammy-winning mandolinist known for his virtuosic performances of classical and contemporary music.

Walton Arts Center

A performing arts venue located in Fayetteville, Arkansas that hosts a variety of music, theater, and dance events.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“Rosetta Tharpe's music had a profound impact on the development of rock and roll, and we're honored to celebrate her legacy in her hometown.”

— Jenna Wilkins, Director, Dyess Colony Visitors Center

“Bach's Sonatas and Partitas are some of the most challenging and rewarding works in the classical repertoire, and I'm thrilled to bring them to life on the mandolin for Arkansas audiences.”

— Chris Thile

The takeaway

These upcoming live music events in Arkansas showcase the state's diverse musical heritage, from its gospel roots to its classical traditions, and highlight the enduring influence of iconic artists like Rosetta Tharpe and the virtuosity of contemporary musicians like Chris Thile.