On August 1, 2025, the Baltimore Symphony Orchestra will perform at St. Mary’s College of Maryland’s Nancy R. & Norton T. Dodge Performing Arts Center in St. Mary’s City at 7 p.m. Conducted by Nicholas Hersh, the concert is part of the orchestra’s “Music for Maryland” series and features harpist Bridget Kibbey. Titled “Sunset Serenades,” the event includes dance-inspired works by Shostakovich, Tailleferre, Dvo?ák, and Strauss. Tickets are available under a “Pay-What-You-Wish” model, exclusively online in advance.
Return of a Celebrated Performance
The performance marks the Baltimore Symphony Orchestra’s return to the Dodge Performing Arts Center, following a well-received concert in August 2023 under the same “Music for Maryland” series. The 2023 event drew praise for both the orchestra’s artistry and the venue’s acoustics. Keith Hinton, executive director of the Dodge Performing Arts Center, highlighted the significance of the Baltimore Symphony Orchestra’s return, noting the venue’s growing reputation.
“When the Baltimore Symphony Orchestra performed here in August of 2023, their exceptional performance affirmed what we knew when we opened the Dodge Performing Arts Center one year before: that we had something truly special—not just for Southern Maryland, but for audiences and world-class musicians everywhere,” Hinton said. He added that audience feedback and the orchestra’s enthusiasm underscored the venue’s unique qualities, making the August 1, 2025, concert highly anticipated.
A Premier Venue for the Arts
The Dodge Performing Arts Center, which opened in September 2022, is a 700-seat concert hall and 140-seat recital hall designed to host world-class performances. Recognized with the 2023 AIA Maryland Public Building of the Year Award, it serves as Southern Maryland’s premier destination for music and the arts, accommodating student performers, community arts groups, and international artists. The Baltimore Symphony Orchestra’s performance is expected to draw a diverse audience, with free parking and accessible seating available to ensure broad access.
Accessible and Engaging Music
Tickets for the Baltimore Symphony Orchestra’s “Sunset Serenades” are in high demand, with online sales already underway. The “Pay-What-You-Wish” pricing aims to make the concert accessible to all, aligning with the orchestra’s mission to engage communities across Maryland. The “Music for Maryland” series, which includes this St. Mary’s County stop, reflects the Baltimore Symphony Orchestra’s commitment to bringing live music to regional audiences.
Background on the Venue and Series
The Nancy R. & Norton T. Dodge Performing Arts Center has quickly established itself as a cultural hub since its 2022 opening. Its state-of-the-art facilities and award-winning design have attracted artists like the Baltimore Symphony Orchestra, enhancing Southern Maryland’s arts scene. The “Music for Maryland” series, launched to expand the orchestra’s reach, has included performances across the state, with the St. Mary’s County event being a highlight due to the venue’s acoustics and community support.
The Baltimore Symphony Orchestra, founded in 1916, is one of Maryland’s leading cultural institutions, known for its innovative programming and community engagement. Under conductor Nicholas Hersh, the orchestra continues to explore diverse repertoire, as evidenced by the dance-inspired works selected for the August 1 concert. Harpist Bridget Kibbey, a celebrated soloist, adds a distinctive element to the performance, showcasing the orchestra’s versatility.
The August 1, 2025, concert is poised to build on the success of the Baltimore Symphony Orchestra’s 2023 appearance, offering Southern Maryland residents and visitors a chance to experience world-class music in an exceptional venue. With its accessible pricing and welcoming atmosphere, the event underscores the Dodge Performing Arts Center’s role as a community and cultural cornerstone.
