Solly Burton Joins the Terre Haute Symphony for Plucked on November 7
Solly Burton, mandolin
The Terre Haute Symphony Orchestra (THSO) invites audiences on a musical journey that bridges classical elegance, American folk traditions, and virtuosic musicianship in Plucked: Mandolin Journeys from Bluegrass to Brahms on Saturday, November 7 at 7:30pm at Tilson Auditorium! Featuring nationally acclaimed mandolinist Solly Burton alongside Brent McPike (guitar) and Aaron Thomas (banjo), Plucked explores the rich colors and expressive possibilities of plucked string instruments against the backdrop of a full symphony orchestra.
The program opens with Delights & Dances by acclaimed American composer Michael Abels, a vibrant and energetic concerto grosso that shines a spotlight on four members of the THSO string section: Concertmaster Michael Chu, violinist Ryan Tolentino, Principal Violist Quincy Tilles, and Principal Cellist Felix Kim. Drawing inspiration from Baroque traditions while embracing a distinctly contemporary voice, the work features brilliant solo passages, infectious rhythms, and lively musical conversations between the soloists and orchestra.
The orchestra then welcomes guest mandolinist Solly Burton, a four-time National Mandolin Champion, for a set of orchestral arrangements by THSO Composer-in-Residence Dan Powers. Burton has earned national recognition through victories at major mandolin competitions across the country and appearances on NPR's From the Top. Joining him are guitarist Brent McPike, an acclaimed performer, educator, and former Indiana State University music professor, and banjoist Aaron Thomas, the 2008 Indiana State Banjo Champion and accomplished bluegrass multi-instrumentalist.
The bluegrass-inspired centerpiece of the evening features four beloved tunes reimagined for mandolin, banjo, guitar, and orchestra:
When You're Smiling – The timeless American standard, transformed with virtuosic instrumental flair and infectious optimism.
Turkey in the Straw – A lively folk favorite showcasing dazzling technique and playful orchestral exchanges.
Foggy Mountain Breakdown – Earl Scruggs' iconic bluegrass classic, famous for its driving banjo rhythms and high-energy excitement.
El Cumbanchero – The beloved Puerto Rican dance tune, blending Latin exuberance with the virtuosity of the evening's guest artists.
The concert concludes with Johannes Brahms' Symphony No. 2 in D Major, one of the composer's most beloved orchestral works. Written during a summer retreat in Austria in 1877, the symphony is often praised for its warmth, lyricism, and pastoral beauty. In contrast to the dramatic intensity of Brahms' First Symphony, the Second radiates optimism, featuring sweeping melodies, rich orchestral colors, and moments of both serenity and exhilaration. The symphony's joyful conclusion has secured its place as one of the great masterpieces of the Romantic repertoire.
Featured Guest Artists
Solly Burton, Mandolin
A native of Graysville, Indiana, Solly Burton is a four-time National Mandolin Champion, having earned top honors at the prestigious Walnut Valley Festival in 2007, 2010, 2018, and 2024. He has won numerous state and national competitions and has become widely recognized as one of the leading mandolin performers in bluegrass and acoustic music.
Brent McPike, Guitar
Brent McPike is an internationally active guitarist, composer, and educator who has performed throughout the United States and abroad. A former member of the Indiana State University music faculty for more than two decades, he is known for his versatility across classical, jazz, folk, and popular styles and has collaborated with artists ranging from jazz legends to champion mandolinists.
Aaron Thomas, Banjo
Award-winning bluegrass musician Aaron Thomas is known for his exceptional banjo playing and versatility across multiple instruments. Named the 2008 Indiana State Banjo Champion, he has performed on the legendary Grand Ole Opry stage and remains an active performer in bluegrass communities throughout the Midwest.
This concert is proudly sponsored by the Morgan Stanley Argentum Group, the Terre Haute Symphony League, Fireplace World and Heat & Glo, Ross Elliott Jewelers, and Steve & Debbie Benefiel.
Supper at the Symphony
Music Director Roger Kalia will lead Concert Conversations at 6:40pm on November 7 in the Heritage Ballroom.
Make it a date night with a concert and Supper at the Symphony! Come to the concert early and enjoy a delectable three-course meal served in the McKee Family Heritage Ballroom of Tirey Hall, right down the hall from Tilson Auditorium. The cash bar opens at 5:00pm, and dinner is served promptly at 5:30pm. Dinner reservations are $30 per person. Patrons will enjoy a salad to start and choose one entrée of either Braised Beef Siciliano, Chicken Asiago, or Vegetarian Pasta Primavera. Beef and Chicken entrées are served with Green Beans and Blistered Tomatoes. Caramel Granny Smith apple pie will be served for dessert. Reservations can be made at www.thso.org or by calling the THSO office at (812) 242-8476. Reservations close at 12pm on Tuesday, November 3.
Concert Conversations
Join Music Director, Dr. Roger Kalia, as he discusses the repertoire performed on this concert and interviews concert guest artists during Concert Conversations in the Heritage Ballroom in Tirey Hall on the campus of Indiana State University before the concert at 6:40pm. FREE to all concert ticket holders!
Concert Tickets
Patrons can purchase concert tickets by visiting www.thso.org or calling the Hulman Center at (812) 237-3737. Ticket prices for adults are $24, $57, and $72. Student and youth tickets are $9, $15, and $19. Prices already include facility and venue fees.
Accessible Entrance
An elevator is available for patrons who need accessible entry at the rear of Tirey Hall. Patrons can be dropped off behind Tirey Hall in the alley between Fairbanks and Tilson for direct access to the elevator or enter through the ground level at the front of Tilson Auditorium via the downstairs lobby. Signage will be posted at the venue with directions to the elevator.
Parking
Patrons may park in the Indiana State University Parking garage located at 750 Cherry Street for free between 4 PM and 11 PM on the day of the concert. This parking garage is located across the street from Tilson Auditorium.
This concert is made possible in part by Arts Illiana, the Indiana Arts Commission, a state agency, and the National Endowment for the Arts, a federal agency.