BEGIN:VCALENDAR
VERSION:2.0
PRODID:-//Greater Elkhart Chamber of Commerce - ECPv6.15.7//NONSGML v1.0//EN
CALSCALE:GREGORIAN
METHOD:PUBLISH
X-WR-CALNAME:Greater Elkhart Chamber of Commerce
X-ORIGINAL-URL:https://www.elkhart.org
X-WR-CALDESC:Events for Greater Elkhart Chamber of Commerce
REFRESH-INTERVAL;VALUE=DURATION:PT1H
X-Robots-Tag:noindex
X-PUBLISHED-TTL:PT1H
BEGIN:VTIMEZONE
TZID:America/Indiana/Indianapolis
BEGIN:DAYLIGHT
TZOFFSETFROM:-0500
TZOFFSETTO:-0400
TZNAME:EDT
DTSTART:20250309T070000
END:DAYLIGHT
BEGIN:STANDARD
TZOFFSETFROM:-0400
TZOFFSETTO:-0500
TZNAME:EST
DTSTART:20251102T060000
END:STANDARD
BEGIN:DAYLIGHT
TZOFFSETFROM:-0500
TZOFFSETTO:-0400
TZNAME:EDT
DTSTART:20260308T070000
END:DAYLIGHT
BEGIN:STANDARD
TZOFFSETFROM:-0400
TZOFFSETTO:-0500
TZNAME:EST
DTSTART:20261101T060000
END:STANDARD
BEGIN:DAYLIGHT
TZOFFSETFROM:-0500
TZOFFSETTO:-0400
TZNAME:EDT
DTSTART:20270314T070000
END:DAYLIGHT
BEGIN:STANDARD
TZOFFSETFROM:-0400
TZOFFSETTO:-0500
TZNAME:EST
DTSTART:20271107T060000
END:STANDARD
END:VTIMEZONE
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Indiana/Indianapolis:20260409T180000
DTEND;TZID=America/Indiana/Indianapolis:20260409T190000
DTSTAMP:20260406T173645
CREATED:20260222T230000Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260224T143453Z
UID:44005-1775757600-1775761200@www.elkhart.org
SUMMARY:Brentwood Independent Living Monthly Bingo Night!
DESCRIPTION:Join us for a fun night of Bingo!!! We’ll have refreshments and prizes! This occurs every 2nd Thursday of the month!
URL:https://www.elkhart.org/event/brentwood-independent-living-monthly-bingo-night-2/
LOCATION:IN
CATEGORIES:Member
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Indiana/Indianapolis:20260412T150000
DTEND;TZID=America/Indiana/Indianapolis:20260412T180000
DTSTAMP:20260406T173645
CREATED:20260326T190000Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260330T132359Z
UID:44783-1776006000-1776016800@www.elkhart.org
SUMMARY:The Lerner Loves You: Grease – Rockin’ Rydell Edition
DESCRIPTION:The Lerner Theatre is proud to announce the return of The Lerner Loves You\, a free community movie series created as a heartfelt thank-you to the people of Elkhart and surrounding communities. Made possible by the Elkhart County CVB\, the series invites audiences to gather once again inside the iconic downtown venue for shared moments of cinema\, connection\, and joy. \nJoin us for the outrageously fun sing-along version of “Grease – Rockin’ Rydell Edition”. A goody two-shoes from Australia falls in love with a greaser over a summer. When her family moves to the boy’s hometown\, and she enrolls at the same high school\, they have a difficult time maintaining their relationship. \nRun Time: 110 minutes \nCast: John Travolta\, Stockard Channing\, Jeff Conaway\, Barry Pearl\, Didi Conn \nReleased: 1978 \nWe’re thrilled to partner with the Elkhart Community Chorus and Elkhart 311 for this special event! \nThe Elkhart Community Chorus\, originally formed to perform at The Lerner’s grand reopening in 2011\, will take the stage to lead our Grease Sing-Along\, bringing energy\, music\, and fun for the whole audience! We encourage everyone to dress in your best 50s attire and sing along to classics like “Summer Nights” and “You’re the One That I Want.” \nWe’re also pleased to have Elkhart 311 in the lobby. This is the City of Elkhart’s non-emergency service that helps residents report everyday concerns such as potholes\, graffiti\, and neighborhood maintenance issues. Accessible through the MyElkhart311 app or by dialing 311\, the service connects community members directly with city departments to help keep Elkhart running smoothly. \nBe sure to stop by the lobby to visit both of our community partners and learn more about local programs\, resources\, and upcoming opportunities — all before the movie begins! \nAbout The Lerner Loves You Series: \nThe historic Lerner Theatre\, a beloved centerpiece and cultural treasure of Downtown Elkhart\, is proud to announce the return of The Lerner Loves You\, a free community movie series created as a heartfelt thank-you to the people of Elkhart and surrounding communities. Made possible by the Elkhart County CVB \, the series invites audiences to gather once again inside the iconic downtown venue for shared moments of cinema\, connection\, and joy. \nBuilding on the success of its inaugural run\, The Lerner Loves You continues The Lerner Theatre’s long tradition as a gathering place for moviegoers—dating back to its early days as “The ELCO.” This special series features a thoughtfully curated selection of beloved films from across generations\, celebrating storytelling\, culture\, and the magic of seeing movies together on the big screen. \nThe series will take place monthly on select Sunday afternoons at 3:00 pm\, February until May and then continuing from October until December\, offering audiences the chance to enjoy films on the Lerner’s grand screen free of charge. Each film will be shown in the Lerner Theatre’s auditorium\, inviting guests to experience the magic of cinema in a setting like no other. Seating is first-come\, first-served. \nSPONSORED BY THE ELKHART COUNTY CVB
URL:https://www.elkhart.org/event/the-lerner-loves-you-grease-rockin-rydell-edition/
LOCATION:The Lerner Theatre
CATEGORIES:Member
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Indiana/Indianapolis:20260414T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/Indiana/Indianapolis:20260414T113000
DTSTAMP:20260406T173645
CREATED:20260127T150000Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260130T183641Z
UID:43515-1776160800-1776166200@www.elkhart.org
SUMMARY:Question\, Persuade\, Refer (QPR)
DESCRIPTION:The QPR Institute’s mission is to save lives and reduce suicidal behaviors by providing innovative\, practical\, and proven suicide prevention training. \nAs a certified QPR Gatekeeper\, you will learn to: \n1. Recognize the warning signs of suicide\n2. Increase awareness of stigma and understand suicide as a public health issue\n3. Know how to offer hope\n4. Know how to access local and national referral resources\n5. Know how to get help and save a life \nThis training is only $15. For registration\, please contact Amanda Noland at anoland@elkhartcounty.com
URL:https://www.elkhart.org/event/question-persuade-refer-qpr-2/
LOCATION:Ivy Tech Community College\, 22531 CR 18\, Goshen\, IN\, United States
CATEGORIES:Member
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Indiana/Indianapolis:20260416T140000
DTEND;TZID=America/Indiana/Indianapolis:20260416T153000
DTSTAMP:20260406T173645
CREATED:20260124T190000Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260130T183505Z
UID:43516-1776348000-1776353400@www.elkhart.org
SUMMARY:Question\, Persuade\, Refer (QPR)
DESCRIPTION:The QPR Institute’s mission is to save lives and reduce suicidal behaviors by providing innovative\, practical\, and proven suicide prevention training. \nAs a certified QPR Gatekeeper\, you will learn: \n1. Recognize the warning signs of suicide\n2. Increase awareness of stigma and understand suicide as a public health issue\n3. Know how to offer hope\n4. Know how to access local and national referral resources\n5. Know how to get help and save a life \nThis training is only $15. For registration\, please contact Amanda Noland at anoland@elkhartcounty.com
URL:https://www.elkhart.org/event/question-persuade-refer-qpr/
LOCATION:Ivy Tech Community College\, 22531 CR 18\, Goshen\, IN\, United States
CATEGORIES:Member
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Indiana/Indianapolis:20260417T183000
DTEND;TZID=America/Indiana/Indianapolis:20260417T193000
DTSTAMP:20260406T173645
CREATED:20260331T223000Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260331T171321Z
UID:44851-1776450600-1776454200@www.elkhart.org
SUMMARY:Elkhart Christian Academy Legacy Campaign Launch
DESCRIPTION:Strong communities are built through strong schools\, and Elkhart Christian Academy is committed to serving families with excellence and purpose. As we prepare to expand our campus and grow educational opportunities\, this next chapter represents a meaningful investment in the future of students and the broader community. We invite you to join us and hear how this vision will continue to serve Elkhart. \nJoin us on Friday\, April 17\, 2026 from 6:30–7:30pm at Elkhart Christian Academy for the Legacy Launch. \nThe evening will include:\n• Worship led by our high school students\n• A special message from our Superintendent\, Mr. Jean Milfort\n• A look back at the rich history of ECA—and a glimpse into its exciting future\n• A dessert reception with our elementary worship team \nAs Psalm 127:1 reminds us\, “Unless the Lord builds the house\, the builders labor in vain.” Our goal is to continue serving the community by forming students of character\, faith\, and leadership.\nThis is a vision event only—no financial commitments will be requested. Opportunities for financial engagement and support will follow in the weeks ahead.\nWe would be honored by your presence. \nRSVP here: Legacy Launch Friday\, April 17\, 2026 – Fill out form
URL:https://www.elkhart.org/event/elkhart-christian-academy-legacy-campaign-launch/
LOCATION:IN
CATEGORIES:Member
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Indiana/Indianapolis:20260418T190000
DTEND;TZID=America/Indiana/Indianapolis:20260418T220000
DTSTAMP:20260406T173645
CREATED:20260328T230000Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260331T175302Z
UID:44781-1776538800-1776549600@www.elkhart.org
SUMMARY:Dixon’s Violin
DESCRIPTION:Experience the extraordinary! Join us for a rare evening of breathtaking violin like you’ve never heard before\, as seen across North America and beyond. Be inspired by the electric violin\, re-imagined by acclaimed artist Dixon\, live in concert! Don’t just hear the music – feel it. Get tickets while they last! \n“Unlike anything I’ve ever witnessed. The music was simply incredible”\n“The sound of a dream”\n“The most beautiful thing my ears have ever heard”\n“The violinist that is changing the world”\n“Standing ovation”\n“Not your ordinary violinist”\n“Some of us cried at the end but we all smiled through those tears” \nAbout Dixon’s Violin:\nYou’ve never heard violin like this! The world’s premier visionary violinist\, Dixon’s life mission is to inspire people – and he has done so at over 1\,000 concerts across North America\, including giving five TED talks/performances\, over ten years at Burning Man and Electric Forest\, plus radio\, TV\, and film appearances. A former technology leader and symphony violinist\, Dixon walked away from a distinguished career to follow his dream full-time\, and invented a whole new music genre. Dixon now improvises on a 5-string electric violin with a looping system he developed to create an all-live one-man symphony\, guided by his remarkable personal story of life transformation.
URL:https://www.elkhart.org/event/dixons-violin/
LOCATION:Crystal Ballroom at the Lerner Theatre\, 410 S Main St\, Elkhart\, 46516\, United States
CATEGORIES:Member
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Indiana/Indianapolis:20260418T193000
DTEND;TZID=America/Indiana/Indianapolis:20260418T223000
DTSTAMP:20260406T173645
CREATED:20260327T233000Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260331T180014Z
UID:44782-1776540600-1776551400@www.elkhart.org
SUMMARY:Bat Out Of Hell – The Musical
DESCRIPTION:BAT OUT OF HELL THE MUSICAL\, the award-winning musical\, is a thrilling spectacle where the timeless music of Jim Steinman and Meat Loaf reigns supreme! \nGet ready for an electrifying experience that will ignite your passion for rock ‘n’ roll! \nBat Out Of Hell – The Musical promises to be a thrilling experience\, featuring a dynamic eight-piece rock band live on stage. \nSprawling multi-level platforms will transport you through the diverse worlds of Bat Out of Hell\, from Raven’s bedroom to the depths of the Lost’s underground\ndomains. \nAn epic cast will bring their powerhouse vocals to Meat Loaf’s anthems including I’d Do Anything For Love (But I Won’t Do That)\, Paradise By The Dashboard Light\, Two\nOut Of Three Ain’t Bad\, Dead Ringer For Love\, It’s All Coming Back to Me\, and of course Bat Out of Hell. \nGet ready to witness BAT OUT OF HELL: The Musical as it explodes onto the stage at THE LERNER THEATRE FOR ONE NIGHT ONLY ON APRIL 18\, 2026\, in a spectacle that promises to be nothing short of legendary.
URL:https://www.elkhart.org/event/bat-out-of-hell-the-musical/
LOCATION:The Lerner Theatre
CATEGORIES:Member
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Indiana/Indianapolis:20260420T193000
DTEND;TZID=America/Indiana/Indianapolis:20260420T220000
DTSTAMP:20260406T173645
CREATED:20260221T003000Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260224T140836Z
UID:43499-1776713400-1776722400@www.elkhart.org
SUMMARY:ABRA Cadabra – Celebrating the Music & Magic of ABBA
DESCRIPTION:Attention all ABBA fans! Get ready for a night of glittering costumes\, irresistible melodies\, and pure joy when ABRA Cadabra— the internationally acclaimed ABBA tribute band—takes the stage in The Lerner in Elkhart on April 20\, 2026 @ 7:30 pm. \nFor 25 years\, ABRA Cadabra has been captivating audiences across the globe with faithful yet fresh performances of ABBA’s timeless hits. From “Dancing Queen” to “Mamma Mia” and “Take a Chance on Me\,” the band blends meticulous musical detail with colorful visuals and an atmosphere designed to get audiences on their feet. \nThe result is a high-energy\, family-friendly spectacle featuring a live band\, dancers\, dazzling costumes\, and multiple wardrobe changes. Audiences are encouraged to sing\, clap\, and dance along\, creating a shared moment of nostalgia and celebration. \nConnect with ABRA Cadabra on Facebook & Instagram @ATributeToABBA and online at www.iloveabba.com \nHere’s what our fans are saying \n“Best show we’ve ever seen!” – Gilberte Nowlan – Moncton\, NB \n“I’ve seen tributes to ABBA before\, they were great\, but you are the best. If you come back East we will be there!” –Jack Hayward – Fredericton\, NB \n“Just saw your show in Regina. WOW! You guys are amazing – I took my (80+) mom and she loved it! The entire group is stunning\, never seen any performers acknowledge their entire crew\, go into the audience and so obviously love what you do! Thank you…we will come again!” – Rhonda Lamb – Regina\, SK
URL:https://www.elkhart.org/event/abra-cadabra-celebrating-the-music-magic-of-abba/
LOCATION:The Lerner Theatre
CATEGORIES:Member
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Indiana/Indianapolis:20260423T160000
DTEND;TZID=America/Indiana/Indianapolis:20260423T190000
DTSTAMP:20260406T173645
CREATED:20260210T210000Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260210T214803Z
UID:43921-1776960000-1776970800@www.elkhart.org
SUMMARY:Goodwill Little Black Dress Fundraiser
DESCRIPTION:The Little Black Dress fundraiser features dinner and a fashion show along with an upscale\, brand-name pop-up boutique. All proceeds from the event will benefit Goodwill’s programs to empower people to achieve their most abundant life. There’s no other event like this in South Bend!
URL:https://www.elkhart.org/event/goodwill-little-black-dress-fundraiser/
LOCATION:Four Winds Event Center\, 3000 Prairie Ave\, South Bend\, IN\, United States
CATEGORIES:Member
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Indiana/Indianapolis:20260425T190000
DTEND;TZID=America/Indiana/Indianapolis:20260425T220000
DTSTAMP:20260406T173645
CREATED:20260126T000000Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260130T192209Z
UID:43500-1777143600-1777154400@www.elkhart.org
SUMMARY:World Ballet Company: Cinderella
DESCRIPTION:Step into the magical world of Cinderella\, live on stage! \nThe beloved fairy tale comes to life in a spectacular Broadway-style production that delights all ages\, blending humor\, romance\, and the timeless majesty of classical ballet. \nWorld Ballet Company’s Cinderella features a dazzling cast of 40 international dancers\, over 150 radiant hand-sewn costumes\, exquisite hand-crafted sets\, and enchanting choreography by Marina Kesler. From the mischievous evil stepsisters to the breathtaking ballroom scenes\, every moment is filled with charm\, wonder and everything you’ve loved about this story for years. \nJoin us for an unforgettable journey of magic\, beauty\, and the promise of “happily ever after.” But remember\, when the clock strikes midnight\, everything will change… \nDuration: 2 hours (including 20-minute intermission)\nAudience: For ages 2 & over\nWBC Website: https://worldballetcompany.com/elkhart1 \nWorld Ballet Company – Ballet Everywhere\, Ballet For All. \n*About the Company: Based in Los Angeles\, and led by Sasha Gorskaya and Gulya Hartwick\, the World Ballet Company presents the most beloved and iconic ballets of our time in cities nationwide. Driven by the belief that ballet is for everyone\, performances appeal to newcomers and seasoned ballet goers alike. The company attracts many international artists and comprises renowned professional dancers representing over ten countries. \nTo date\, World Ballet Company has traveled to more than 300 cities\, reaching an audience of more than 500\,000\, many of whom are first-time attendees to a ballet.
URL:https://www.elkhart.org/event/world-ballet-company-cinderella/
LOCATION:The Lerner Theatre
CATEGORIES:Member
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Indiana/Indianapolis:20260507T170000
DTEND;TZID=America/Indiana/Indianapolis:20260507T220000
DTSTAMP:20260406T173646
CREATED:20260210T220000Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260210T215651Z
UID:43982-1778173200-1778191200@www.elkhart.org
SUMMARY:SOS Dinner & Auction - YWCA North Central Indiana
DESCRIPTION:YWCA North Central Indiana is proud to honor community superstars Jacqueline Barton and RV Women’s Alliance at our annual SOS Dinner & Auction\, happening May 7th\, 2026! Join us for our annual dinner\, live auction\, and community recognition\, all while changing the lives of women and children in Elkhart County. All funds raised go directly towards Safe Haven Shelter. We invite you to join us\, and make a true impact!
URL:https://www.elkhart.org/event/sos-dinner-auction-ywca-north-central-indiana/
LOCATION:Crystal Ballroom at the Lerner Theatre\, 410 S Main St\, Elkhart\, 46516\, United States
CATEGORIES:Member
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Indiana/Indianapolis:20260507T180000
DTEND;TZID=America/Indiana/Indianapolis:20260507T220000
DTSTAMP:20260406T173646
CREATED:20260406T180000Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260406T181948Z
UID:45003-1778176800-1778191200@www.elkhart.org
SUMMARY:YWCA Safe Haven SOS Dinner & Auction
DESCRIPTION:Join us on May 7th for our Annual Dinner & Auction benefiting YWCA Safe Haven Shelter! ✨ \nCelebrate the incredible impact of our community while helping women and children in Elkhart County shine. This special evening will honor Jacqueline Barton\, our 2026 Champion for Women & Children\, and RV Women’s Alliance\, our 2026 Community Partner of the Year. \nYour support helps families find safety\, stability\, and the resources they need to build brighter\, abuse-free futures. \n💛 Together\, we can make a difference.
URL:https://www.elkhart.org/event/ywca-safe-haven-sos-dinner-auction/
LOCATION:Crystal Ballroom at the Lerner Theatre\, 410 S Main St\, Elkhart\, 46516\, United States
CATEGORIES:Member
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Indiana/Indianapolis:20260510T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/Indiana/Indianapolis:20260510T150000
DTSTAMP:20260406T173646
CREATED:20260325T140000Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260331T173140Z
UID:44711-1778407200-1778425200@www.elkhart.org
SUMMARY:Mother's Day Brunch- Hotel Elkhart Tapestry by Hilton
DESCRIPTION:A Celebration of Love – Make this Mother’s Day truly special with a meal that’s as memorable as the occasion! \n💐 Celebrate Mother’s Day with a Special Brunch! 💐 \nTreat Mom to a delicious brunch filled with her favorites: \n🍳 Made-to-Order Omelette Station\n🧇 Self-Serve Waffle Station\n🥓 Bacon & Sausage\n🥔 Roasted Yukon Potatoes\n🥗 Garden Salad\n🥔 Dill Redskin Potato Salad\n🍓 Fresh Fruit Display \nChef’s Entrées:\n🍗 Tuscan Chicken\n🐟 Honey Mustard Salmon\n🥩 Prime Rib\n🍤 Garden Shrimp Scampi\n🍝 Baked Mostaccioli\n🌿 Lemon Asparagus \n🍰 Assorted Desserts \n🍹 Full Service Bar Available — perfect for mimosas and a toast to Mom! \nBring the family and celebrate the moms and mother figures who mean so much. 💕 \nReservations Required: For questions or more details contact Chasity Woods at 574-891-2049 or via email at salesadmin@hotelelkhart.com
URL:https://www.elkhart.org/event/mothers-day-brunch-hotel-elkhart-tapestry-by-hilton/
LOCATION:The Aria Ballroom at Hotel Elkhart\, 500 S Main St\, Elkhart\, 46516\, United States
CATEGORIES:Member
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Indiana/Indianapolis:20260512T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/Indiana/Indianapolis:20260512T160000
DTSTAMP:20260406T173646
CREATED:20260325T140000Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260331T173651Z
UID:44615-1778580000-1778601600@www.elkhart.org
SUMMARY:Rex Martin NIBCO Interactive Museum Public Day
DESCRIPTION:The Rex Martin NIBCO Interactive Museum is open to the public for tours. Learn about NIBCO’s rich 121-year history in Elkhart\, its impact on the community and the plumbing industry\, and beyond. Experience the behind-the-wall Plumbing Discovery House and other interactive exhibits.
URL:https://www.elkhart.org/event/rex-martin-nibco-interactive-museum-public-day/
LOCATION:Rex Martin NIBCO Interactive Museum\, 1516 Middlebury Street\, Elkhart
CATEGORIES:Member
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Indiana/Indianapolis:20260517T160000
DTEND;TZID=America/Indiana/Indianapolis:20260517T180000
DTSTAMP:20260406T173646
CREATED:20260124T210000Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260130T185044Z
UID:43501-1779033600-1779040800@www.elkhart.org
SUMMARY:Elkhart County Symphony – Exhale & Celebrate
DESCRIPTION:Music for Breathing\, Music for Joy \nThe Elkhart County Symphony’s exuberant Season 78 finale\, “Exhale & Celebrate\,” includes inventive works composed by—and featuring—guest soloist Caitlin Edwards and a performance of Rimsky-Korsakov’s Capriccio espagnol by the Symphony \nOn May 17\, 2026\, at The Lerner Theatre in Downtown Elkhart\, the Elkhart County Symphony presents its 2025-26 season finale\, “Exhale & Celebrate.” The Season 78 finale features guest soloist Caitlin Edwards on violin and presents a repertoire including music from the guest soloist’s album Exhale\, as well as the Symphony performing Rimsky-Korsakov’s Capriccio espagnol and additional orchestral works. \nMs. Edwards\, a violinist\, arranger\, recording artist\, and teacher based in Chicago\, began her musical journey at age eight through the Music Opportunity Program in Birmingham\, Alabama. A classically-trained violinist\, Ms. Edwards credits gospel\, jazz\, hip-hop\, and neo-soul as her musical inspirations. She received degrees in Violin Performance from the University of Louisville (B.M.) and DePaul University (M.M.)\, studying with J. Patrick Rafferty and Janet Sung. \nDisrupting the status quo \nCurrently a mentor with the Chicago Musical Pathways Initiative\, a program designed to offer resources to talented Black\, Indigenous\, and People of Color (BIPOC) youth pursuing careers in classical music\, Ms. Edwards’ musical ambition extends beyond herself. Having realized some of her own dreams—including winning numerous orchestral awards and earning the opportunity to perform and record behind artists such as John Legend\, Earth Wind and Fire\, Lauryn Hill\, Stewart Copeland\, Common\, Lucky Daye\, Yolanda Adams\, and India Arie—her ultimate goal is to help educate and inspire the next generation of young Black musicians\, and to see the voices and faces of Black people normalized in traditionally monopolized spaces through increased visibility and disruption of the status quo. \nMs. Edwards is a 2023 Sphinx MPower Artist Grant recipient\, a 2022 Esteemed Artist Award recipient from the Chicago Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events\, and a 2021 3Arts/Walder Foundation Awardee. She has performed with the Sphinx Symphony Orchestra\, \nNairobi Philharmonic\, Grant Park Festival Orchestra\, Chicago Sinfonietta\, National Repertory Orchestra\, the Chicago Philharmonic\, Oistrakh Symphony of Chicago\, and the ReCollective Orchestra in New York City and Los Angeles\, and was also a recipient of the Rising Star Award from the Gateways Music Festival. In addition\, Ms. Edwards has received Grammy certificates for recordings on Disney’s The Lion King with the Re-Collective Orchestra and for albums by John Legend and PJ Morton. \nHer acclaimed 2021 debut solo album\, Exhale\, fuses the sound of classical music with the soul and harmonies of gospel and neo-soul. The Elkhart County Symphony is honored and pleased to welcome Ms. Edwards and collaborate to perform some of her innovative and inspiring work at “Exhale & Celebrate.” \nFive joyful movements \nCapriccio espagnol is a five-movement orchestral suite\, based on Spanish folk melodies\, composed in 1887 by the Russian composer Nikolai Rimsky-Korsakov. It premiered in St. Petersburg in 1887\, conducted by Rimsky-Korsakov\, during an October performance by the Imperial Orchestra. \nThe composer intended to write the work for a solo violin with orchestra\, but eventually decided that a purely orchestral work would better suit its lively and energetic melodies. Often praised for the strength of its orchestration\, Capriccio espagnol features a large percussion section and many special techniques and articulations—for example\, in the fourth movement\, when the violinists\, violists\, and cellists are directed to imitate guitars. \nRimsky-Korsakov was considered a master of orchestration and was a member of the group of influential\, nationalistic Russian composers known as The Five. His best-known orchestral compositions—including Capriccio espagnol\, the Russian Easter Overture\, and the symphonic suite Scheherazade—are staples of the classical music repertoire\, and the composer was thought to have influenced an entire generation of younger composers and musicians during his many years as an educator. Rimsky-Korsakov\, therefore\, is largely thought of as the principal architect of what the classical music public considers the “Russian style.”
URL:https://www.elkhart.org/event/elkhart-county-symphony-exhale-celebrate/
LOCATION:The Lerner Theatre
CATEGORIES:Member
END:VEVENT
END:VCALENDAR