The Hays Symphony will present its season finale concert, “Spring Classics: Viva Percussion!,” at 7:30 p.m. Saturday, May 2 in the Beach/Schmidt Performing Arts Center on the Fort Hays State University campus, 600 Park St.
The evening will highlight the rhythmic mastery of guest artists Garrett Arney and Sijia Huang of the renowned percussion ensemble arx duo.
In a special collaborative performance, this highly anticipated season finale will be shared with the FHSU Choirs, bringing an expansive and dynamic sound to the Beach/Schmidt stage.
“Working with world-class guest artists like Garrett and Sijia is a tremendous highlight to cap off our season,” said Benjamin Cline, music director of the Hays Symphony. “These musicians have demonstrated immense discipline and artistry in the world of contemporary percussion. To see them collaborate on center stage with our full orchestra and the FHSU Choirs is a truly rewarding experience that will offer a spectacular wall of sound for our audience.”
The program will feature an exciting array of contemporary works, including Michael Gilbertson’s Percussion Concerto and Gabriela Ortiz’s energetic Antrópolis.
The evening will also showcase Christopher Tin’s powerful Waloyo Yamoni, featuring the FHSU Choirs under the direction of Terry Crull. Patrons can learn more about the guest percussionists, arx duo, by visiting their website at arxduo.com.
“The energy these musicians bring to the stage is contagious, and it is the perfect way to conclude an incredible season of music,” said Joan Crull, president of the Hays Symphony Guild. “We are proud to support an event that celebrates such vibrant musical collaborations. It is a wonderful opportunity for the Hays community to witness the high caliber of talent being showcased right here at the university.”
In addition to the musical performance, the Hays Symphony is hosting a "Lilies for the Dilleys" fundraiser to celebrate the legacy of Lyle and Bonnie Dilley.
Beautiful spring lilies are available for purchase for just $5 each.
Patrons can order as many as they like to honor the Dilleys' legacy and will receive their lilies at the May 2 concert.
Supplies are limited, so community members are encouraged to place their orders online now to secure theirs.
Following the performance, attendees are invited to stay and mingle at a post-concert reception, sponsored by a generous donation from Commerce Bank.
The Hays Symphony extends special thanks to its 2025-26 season sponsors: the Riley Family Foundation, the Robert E. Browning Foundation, and an anonymous Ellis County family.
Free tickets and "Lilies for the Dilleys" orders are available online at hayssymphony.org.
While attendees are not required to present a ticket upon entry, reserving tickets in advance allows the Guild to plan for post-concert refreshments.
For any questions regarding the performance, please contact the FHSU Music & Theatre department at (785) 628-4533 or via email at musictheatre@fhsu.edu.