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Panhandle Today
By the People, for the People
WT Symphony's 'Epic Evening' Concert Set for March 7
Beethoven's iconic Fifth Symphony anchors a program showcasing student talent and innovation.
Published on Feb. 26, 2026
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The West Texas A&M University Symphony Orchestra's upcoming 'Epic Evening' concert on March 7th features Beethoven's Symphony No. 5 alongside performances by student musicians and conductors. The concert highlights the enduring power of classical music, the importance of regional orchestras in cultivating the next generation of musicians, and the orchestra's role as a community hub.
Why it matters
The 'Epic Evening' concert represents a broader trend of regional orchestras revitalizing their role in American cultural life. By balancing classical tradition with contemporary innovation, WT's symphony is engaging diverse audiences and serving as a vital training ground for future musicians.
The details
The concert program features Beethoven's iconic Fifth Symphony, which has even traveled beyond Earth on the Voyager space probes. It also spotlights senior music performance major Brandon Garcia as the winner of the Mila Abbasova Concerto Competition, performing Ney Rosauro's Concerto for Marimba and Orchestra. Additionally, the concert includes student conductors J.P. Galib and Keila Silva, demonstrating the university's commitment to developing the next generation of musical leaders. The program opens with Otto Schwarz's 'Roller Coaster,' showcasing the orchestra's willingness to embrace more accessible and contemporary pieces.
- The 'Epic Evening' concert will be held on March 7th at 7:30 p.m.
- The West Texas A&M University Symphony Orchestra's 'One West' fundraising campaign exceeded its initial $125 million goal, reaching over $175 million.
The players
Dr. Mark Bartley
Director of orchestral activities at West Texas A&M University.
Brandon Garcia
A senior music performance major at West Texas A&M University and the winner of the Mila Abbasova Concerto Competition.
Keila Silva
A student conductor for the West Texas A&M University Symphony Orchestra.
J.P. Galib
A student conductor for the West Texas A&M University Symphony Orchestra.
Otto Schwarz
The composer of the piece 'Roller Coaster,' which will be performed by the West Texas A&M University Symphony Orchestra.
What they’re saying
“Beethoven's Fifth Symphony remains a cornerstone of orchestral repertoire for a reason. As Dr. Mark Bartley, director of orchestral activities at WT, notes, the work embodies 'heroic struggle' and has even traveled beyond Earth, included on the Voyager space probes.”
— Dr. Mark Bartley, Director of orchestral activities at West Texas A&M University (newsy-today.com)
What’s next
The West Texas A&M University Symphony Orchestra's 'Epic Evening' concert on March 7th is a free public event that showcases the university's commitment to classical music, student talent, and community engagement.
The takeaway
The 'Epic Evening' concert at West Texas A&M University demonstrates the enduring relevance of classical music and the vital role that regional orchestras play in cultivating the next generation of musicians and engaging diverse audiences. By balancing tradition and innovation, the symphony is positioning itself as a cultural hub within the Panhandle region.


