Lexington, September 4, 2025
News Summary
Lexington is commemorating its 250th anniversary with a special concert featuring local musicians. Taking place at the Singletary Center for the Arts, the event showcases diverse talent including Shawn Okpebholo, Ben Sollee, and Joslyn Hampton. Pre-concert activities will enhance the experience for attendees, although the concert is completely sold out. A livestream will be available for those unable to attend in person.
Lexington is set to celebrate its 250th anniversary with a special concert featuring local professional musicians. The event will take place on Sunday at the Singletary Center for the Arts. Notable performers include Shawn Okpebholo, a Lexington native who is starting the academic year at Wheaton College, Ben Sollee, a well-known artist who has emphasized the importance of celebrating history and community, and Joslyn Hampton, whose band, Joslyn and The Sweet Compression, has gained attention recently, including a new stage opening in Gatton Park.
The concert is part of the wider festivities commemorating Lexington’s substantial milestone and reflects a spirit of community connection. The performance will kick off with the Central Kentucky Youth Orchestras, who will open the concert alongside Uniting Voices Lexington. The Lexington Philharmonic Orchestra will also be present, performing Okpebholo’s newly commissioned composition titled “A Mighty Long Way,” which is inspired by Lexington’s diverse history and culture.
The concert program has been designed to include a variety of musical styles. It will begin with “Short Piece for Orchestra,” composed by Julia Perry, a notable 20th-century composer from Lexington. Following the intermission, Sollee will collaborate with the Philharmonic for the first time, while Hampton will experience performing with an orchestra for the first time as well. This combination highlights the wealth of local talent present in Lexington, as noted by the Philharmonic’s music director, Mélisse Brunet.
The festivities will not be limited to the concert itself. Pre-concert activities are scheduled to begin at 1 p.m. on the lawn of the Singletary Center, providing attendees with an engaging experience that includes performances, artist interviews, and interactive learning opportunities. Despite the popularity of the event, the concert is completely sold out, and overflow seating has also reached full capacity. However, a free livestream of the performance will be available on the Lexington Philharmonic’s YouTube channel for those unable to secure seats.
Concert Details
- Date: Sunday, September 7
- Location: Singletary Center for the Arts
- Performers: Shawn Okpebholo, Ben Sollee, Joslyn Hampton, and the Lexington Philharmonic
Pre-concert Activities
- Start Time: 1 p.m.
- Location: Lawn of the Singletary Center
- Activities: Performances, artist interviews, interactive learning
Background Context
Lexington, incorporated in 1779, has a rich history that celebrates various cultural and musical influences. The 250th anniversary serves as a reminder of the city’s vibrant community spirit and artistic contributions. This concert aims not only to honor that history but also to bring together local musicians and audiences to celebrate together.
Key Features of the Concert
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Artists | Shawn Okpebholo, Ben Sollee, Joslyn Hampton |
| Opening Act | Central Kentucky Youth Orchestras with Uniting Voices Lexington |
| Featured Composition | “A Mighty Long Way” by Shawn Okpebholo |
| Date | September 7 |
| Livestream | Available on YouTube |
FAQ
What time do pre-concert activities start?
Pre-concert activities will begin at 1 p.m. on the lawn of the Singletary Center for the Arts.
Is the concert sold out?
Yes, the concert is completely sold out, including all overflow seating.
Will there be a livestream of the concert?
Yes, a free livestream of the performance will be available on the Lexington Philharmonic’s YouTube channel.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
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Europe Gears Up for Troop Deployment to Ukraine
Gatton Park Opens in Downtown Lexington
Record Low Temperatures Hit Lexington
Lexington’s Concert Season to Showcase Diverse Lineup
Lexington Sacred Music Festival Celebrates Community Through Music
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Gatton Park Opens as New Community Hub in Lexington
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Additional Resources
- Kentucky.com: Lexington’s 250th Anniversary Concert
- NBC Boston: Celebrating 250th Anniversary of Lexington
- MLive: Ted Nugent’s 50th Anniversary Tour
- Boston 25 News: Massachusetts 250th Celebration
- Kentucky.com: Fayette County News
- Wikipedia: Lexington, Kentucky
Author: STAFF HERE LEXINGTON KY STAFF
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