The Great Falls Symphony invites you to experience an exciting evening of music on Saturday, April 18 at 7:30 PM in the Mansfield Theater, led by music director candidate Ian Passmore. The program opens with Omar Thomas’ Of Our New Day Begun, a vibrant and uplifting work inspired by the hymn Lift Every Voice and Sing. The evening continues with Johannes Brahms’ Schicksalslied, performed with the Great Falls Symphonic Choir, followed by Nancy Hill Cobb’s Shades & Illumination, winner of the Symphony’s Second Performance Project.
The concert concludes with Sibelius’ Symphony No. 5, a sweeping and triumphant work inspired by the sight of swans in flight, building to one of the most powerful and unforgettable finales in orchestral music. Whether you’re a longtime concertgoer or new to the symphony, this concert has something for you.
About Ian Passmore
If you think conductors are stuffy and unapproachable, think again. Ian Passmore is the kind of maestro you could grab a beer with—warm, down-to-earth, and passionate about making classical music feel alive. He brings energy, authenticity, and a refreshing informality to the podium.
Ian has conducted major orchestras across the U.S. and made his international debut with the Hanoi Philharmonic. He currently serves on the conducting staff of the Charlotte Symphony Orchestra, leading their Youth Orchestra program and holiday ballet performances. Beyond performing, Ian is an educator and mentor, with university teaching experience and nationwide guest engagements. Off the podium, he’s a tech nerd, true crime podcast addict, and dog dad to four lively pups. He believes classical music should be for everyone, breaking barriers through performance, education, and digital outreach.
Tickets & Information
Tickets, venue details, and program updates are available at www.gfsymphony.org/ian-passmore.
This performance is made possible through the generous sponsorship of Triple Truck Repair and Dr. Brice Addison, with the 2025–26 Season proudly sponsored by D.A. Davidson Companies. Ian Passmore is sponsored by Deb Porcarelli & Angela Costley, and all of our candidates are sponsored by the Gibson Hotel, City Motor Company, and Montana’s Rib & Chop House.
