Portland Opera and Cascadia Composers Collaborate for Exclusive Preview

Upcoming opera and piano performances to be featured on Thursdays at Three radio show

Jan. 28, 2026 at 6:39pm

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On January 29, 2026, Portland Opera will share an exclusive preview of their production of "The Majesty of the Spiritual," featuring arrangements by composers Lena McLin, Roland Carter, Jacqueline Hairston, and Uzee Brown, Jr. This opera highlights the history and influence of the Spiritual genre. Following the opera preview, Cascadia Composers will perform three new works for solo piano, featuring composers Steven James and Jeff Winslow.

Why it matters

This collaboration between Portland Opera and Cascadia Composers showcases the vibrant classical music scene in Portland, Oregon, blending traditional opera with contemporary piano compositions. The event provides a unique opportunity for listeners to preview upcoming performances and discover new musical talents.

The details

Portland Opera's preview of "The Majesty of the Spiritual" will feature arrangements of the Spiritual genre, which has had a profound impact on American music. Cascadia Composers, a cooperative of over 100 living composers based in Oregon, will then present three new solo piano works, highlighting the diverse and innovative musical voices within the organization.

  • The event will take place on Thursday, January 29, 2026 at 3:00 PM PT.
  • Portland Opera's preview of "The Majesty of the Spiritual" will be the first part of the program.
  • Cascadia Composers' performance of three new solo piano works will follow the opera preview.

The players

Portland Opera

A renowned opera company that has been bringing opera to life in Portland since its founding in 1964. The company is known for its diverse programming and community engagement efforts, including its Opera a la Cart performances in local parks and festivals.

Cascadia Composers

A cooperative of over 100 living composers based in Oregon, Cascadia Composers promotes a wide range of new musical art and serves as a go-to resource for exciting and inspirational music in the Pacific Northwest.

Lena McLin, Roland Carter, Jacqueline Hairston, and Uzee Brown, Jr.

Composers whose arrangements will be featured in Portland Opera's preview of "The Majesty of the Spiritual." Their work highlights the rich history and influence of the Spiritual genre.

Steven James and Jeff Winslow

Composers whose new solo piano works will be performed by Cascadia Composers during the event.

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What they’re saying

“We're thrilled to partner with Cascadia Composers to showcase the depth and diversity of classical music in Portland. This event will give our audience a sneak peek at our upcoming production of 'The Majesty of the Spiritual' and introduce them to some of the most exciting new piano compositions in the region.”

— Christopher Mattaliano, General Director, Portland Opera

“Cascadia Composers is proud to collaborate with Portland Opera and share the stage with such a renowned institution. Our three new piano works will highlight the innovative and inclusive spirit of our organization, showcasing the breadth of talent within our community.”

— Kenji Bunch, Artistic Director, Cascadia Composers

What’s next

Tickets for the full productions of "The Majesty of the Spiritual" by Portland Opera and the Cascadia Composers piano recital will go on sale to the public on February 15, 2026.

The takeaway

This collaboration between Portland Opera and Cascadia Composers demonstrates the vibrant classical music scene in Portland, blending traditional and contemporary styles to create a diverse and inclusive artistic experience for the community.