The Billings Symphony is excited to announce the 2026-2027 season, The Search
This season is more than a collection of concerts—it is a defining chapter in the history of the Billings Symphony, and one that we are honored to share with you. At the heart of this season is the search for our new Music Director. We are inviting our community directly into this journey. Throughout the season, you will experience six extraordinary candidates, each bringing a distinct artistic voice, a unique vision, and a deep passion for symphonic music.
Your six Music Director Candidates—Eric Garcia, Wilbur Lin, Tristan Rais-Sherman, Deanna Tham, Jacob Joyce, and Conner Gray Covington—will spend a busy week in Billings rehearsing with our wonderful orchestra, attending various interviews, meeting community members, and conducting their concert. After all candidates have their chance to perform with us, they will be evaluated.
Through their concerts, you won’t just hear performances, you’ll experience six different possibilities for the future of the Billings Symphony. Your presence, your energy, and your response are a vital part of this process, and we cannot wait to share it with you.
This historic season is paired with an exceptional lineup of world class soloists and some of the most powerful and beloved works in the orchestral repertoire. From the warmth of Brahms’ Symphony No. 2, the unstoppable force of Tchaikovsky’s Symphony No. 4, to the emotional depth of Rachmaninoff’s Piano Concerto No. 2, this season is designed to inspire, challenge, and move us all.
The Classic Series culminates in a breathtaking and deeply meaningful finale. Joined by the Billings Symphony Chorale and guest conductor Robert Moody, we will preform The Drop That Contained the Sea by acclaimed living composer, Christopher Tin. This concert will also feature the announcement of who will become our next Music Director—a moment that will shape the future of the orchestra for years to come.
Not to be outdone, the 2026-2027 Sukin Series continues to bring must-see performances to Billings. With top orchestral competition winners such as the 2025 Van Cliburn International Piano Competition Gold Medalist, Aristo Sham, and the 2025 Banff International String Quartet Competition winners, Poiesis Quartet. As well as returning favorites such as the Rocky Mountain String Quartet.
And don’t forget season favorites like The Nutcracker Ballet, Free Family Concert, and everyone’s favorite Symphony in the Park! This season represents momentum, possibility, and the power of music to bring us together. Whether you’ve been with us for a decade or are discovering the Symphony for the first time we invite you to share in this extraordinary year. Attend the concerts. Engage in the journey. Help make history together.
76th season subscriptions are now available online or by phone. To purchase tickets and subscriptions, call 406-256-6052 or visit www.billingssymphony.org.
