Concerts on the Square: "Joel & John: Piano Men Legends"
The 2026 Season kickoff features a no-holds-barred celebration of two piano-rock legends. Jeans ’n Classics joins the Wisconsin Chamber Orchestra for a hit-packed night of Billy Joel and Elton John favorites—from Scenes from an Italian Restaurant to Tiny Dancer and Bennie and the Jets, audiences can expect big hooks and even bigger choruses. With a crowd that’s bound to know every word—this will be quite a way to kick off the season.
Concerts on the Square: United in Sound
Celebrate America’s 250th birthday with a Concerts on the Square tradition! From the Star-Spangled Banner and Armed Forces Salute to the thunderous 1812 Overture and Stars and Stripes Forever, this program pairs patriotic favorites with contemporary American voices and spotlights Madison hip-hop artist Rob Dz. A night to gather, listen, and celebrate together in the heart of our Capitol.
With Madison hip-hop artist Rob Dz
Concerts on the Square: Duo d’Amore with Strings
Concertmaster and violinist Suzanne Beia and principal cellist Karl Lavine step into the spotlight for a program of truly classical gems at the peak of our season. From Donizetti’s intimate Concertino in D Minor for Violin and Cello to Dvořák’s heartfelt Romance in F Minor for Violin, this summer evening celebrates the artistry of our own musicians and high caliber of the orchestra.
With Suzanne Beia, violin & Karl Lavine, cello
Concerts on the Square: Under Paris Skies
Enchantée! Step into a night of Parisian sparkle with the orchestra and guest violinist Tim Kliphuis. Blending gypsy jazz, swing, folk, and classical elegance, the program features music by visiting artists Django Reinhardt, Stéphane Grappelli, and Kliphuis himself, all wrapped in vibrant orchestral color. Lyrical, playful, and full of energy, this evening captures the rhythm and charm of the swinging thirties in Paris.
With Tim Kliphuis, violin
Concerts on the Square: Hollywood Hits
Summer is blockbuster season! Join us for Hollywood Hits, where the silver screen comes to life on Capitol Square and we shine the light on emerging talent with the winner of our Young Artist Concerto Competition. From classics such as Ben Hur and Casablanca to modern-day favorites like Jordan Peele’s Nope, Pirates of the Caribbean, The Lord of the Rings, and Star Wars—this cinematic concert delivers nonstop thrills. It’s a night for film fans, music lovers, and anyone who gets chills when the music swells.
With YACC Winner Angelina Chang, piano
Concerts on the Square: Rhapsody Squared
Close the season on the grand piano with pianist Stewart Goodyear taking center stage. Featuring Goodyear’s own genre-blending works—offering a sneak peek of an upcoming WCO recording—this program builds toward one of the most iconic pieces in American music: Gershwin’s Rhapsody in Blue. Jazz-inflected, virtuosic, and unforgettable, it’s a piano marathon and a bold and satisfying sendoff to summer on the Square.
With Stewart Goodyear, piano
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FREE Sunday Ballet Class
Open to all dancers ages 11+ including adults. These FREE classes will be taught by CMB faculty members at an intermediate to advanced level. There is no dress code and the doors will open 20 minutes before class begins. Class is completely free, but please register ahead of time so we know how many to expect.
Come dance with us and give Central Midwest Ballet’s classes a try!
