A Musical Portrait of the City That Never Sleeps
The Fairmont Community Symphonic Band will bring the energy, rhythm, and spirit of New York City to north-central West Virginia this spring with a concert titled “New York State of Mind.” The program will feature a dynamic collection of works inspired by the sights, sounds, and culture of America’s most iconic metropolis.
Performances will take place Saturday, April 19, 2026 at 7:00 PM at the historic Metropolitan Theatre in downtown Morgantown, and again on Sunday, April 20 at 3:00 PM at Fairmont Senior High School. Both concerts are free and open to the public.
A Celebration of Musical Diversity
From Broadway and jazz to symphonic masterpieces and Latin dance rhythms, “New York State of Mind” explores the city’s role as a global crossroads of musical culture. The program includes Leonard Bernstein’s thrilling Symphonic Dances from West Side Story, George Gershwin’s lush and jazz-infused An American in Paris, and Arturo Márquez’s fiery Danzón No. 2, among other selections. Audiences will also enjoy Robert Sheldon’s Metroplex: Three Postcards from Manhattan and John Williams’ patriotic Liberty Fanfare, written for the Statue of Liberty’s centennial celebration.
“New York City is a true melting pot, and its music culture is no different,” said Co-Director Chris Moran. “So much great music has originated or been performed there. We hope to capture a snapshot of the broad diversity of music styles and cultures that New York represents through this concert.”
Classic Works, Fresh Perspectives
While West Side Story and An American in Paris were originally written for full orchestra, their transcriptions for symphonic band remain faithful to the original scores—offering both challenge and beauty. “These symphonic band transcriptions are exceptionally challenging and true to the original,” Moran noted. “While West Side Story has a more direct tie to New York City, Gershwin is iconically New York.”
Performing in Iconic Venues
The ensemble is especially excited to bring this program to two local venues. “I feel that the Met is a perfect venue for a symphonic band or orchestral performance,” Moran said. “The stage size, seat layout, acoustics, and general feel of the renovated theater just feel so perfectly matched. We’re so excited to play there!”
A Community Ensemble Striving for Excellence
The Fairmont Community Symphonic Band brings together advanced high school musicians, collegiate performers, and community members from across the region. Though a community group, it stands apart in its approach. “What makes this ensemble so unique is that, while we are a community ensemble, we are audition-based,” Moran explained. “That isn’t common in our area. It allows us to perform more difficult, well-known works with an emphasis on musical excellence. We’re trying to create world-class performance opportunities for both our musicians and audiences—all free of charge.”
Join or Support the Band
The band is currently accepting video auditions through December 28. Musicians interested in joining can find more information by clicking the JOIN link on the website.
“The only way we can provide these types of concert events for free is with the generous support of our community,” Moran added. “If you enjoy what we’re doing and want to make it possible to continue, please consider a tax-deductible donation by clicking the DONATE button today.”