SoNA Beyond Series Continues with ‘Declaration’ at Crystal Bridges, April 10

The Symphony of Northwest Arkansas (SoNA) continues its 2025-26 SoNA Beyond music series with Declaration, a special performance on Friday, April 10 at 7 p.m. at Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art in Bentonville (600 Museum Way). The concert will take place in the museum’s Great Hall.

Part of the symphony's innovative SoNA Beyond series, Declaration will feature a string ensemble program of American music celebrating the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence. Curated and conducted by SoNA’s Principal Violist Jesse Collett, the program will feature works by American composers including George Gershwin, Aaron Copland, John Williams, as well as two composers with deep Arkansas roots — Florence Price and William Grant Still. For this concert, Collett drew inspiration from America 250, the temporary exhibition currently on view in the museum’s galleries.

“The SoNA Beyond series allows us to present music in creative ways and in meaningful partnership with organizations throughout Northwest Arkansas,” said Ben Harris, SoNA Executive Director. “It’s always an honor to perform in the Great Hall at Crystal Bridges, and this program is especially meaningful as it celebrates American composers while showcasing the artistry and leadership of our Principal Violist, Jesse Collett, who is also well-known in the community as the Director of the Bentonville High School Orchestras.”

Sponsored by the Walmart Foundation and with additional support provided by other generous donors — including Palmer Violin Shop for this performance at Crystal Bridges — the SoNA Beyond series goes beyond the traditional concert hall and into the community, with ensembles performing innovative programs designed to be inclusive and welcoming for all. Not simply a chamber music series, SoNA Beyond concerts are distinctive live music experiences built on unique programming and special partnerships with local organizations.

“As our region continues to expand and evolve, it is more important than ever that we engage with our community in the shared spaces of Northwest Arkansas,” Harris added. “The SoNA Beyond series is designed to break down traditional barriers of classical music and create memorable musical experiences for everyone.”

Tickets for SoNA Beyond: Declaration are $45 ($36 for museum members, $10 for students) and are available AT THIS LINK, or by calling the Crystal Bridges box office at (479) 657-2335.

Following Declaration, the SoNA Beyond series continues with six additional performances across Northwest Arkansas, all of which are free and open to the public. Explore them all HERE.