Manitowoc Symphony Orchestra

05/11/2026

THIS EVENT HAS SOLD OUT

PRESS RELEASE
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Internationally Acclaimed Cellist Mike Block to Perform at Still Bend Hosted by Manitowoc Symphony Orchestra

MANITOWOC, WI, May 11, 2026 – The Manitowoc Symphony Orchestra is delighted to announce that Grammy® Award-Winning multi-style cellist, Mike Block, will perform on Tuesday, May 26, 2026 at the culturally unique property known as Still Bend designed by Frank Lloyd Wright (the Bernard and Fern Schwartz House) in Two Rivers, Wisconsin. This one-night-only event blends music, architecture, and artistry in a setting designed to inspire. Attendees will be treated to an unforgettable and intimate performance.

Mike Block’s solo show offers a rich mixture of classical repertoire, folk music, original compositions and songs that draw inspiration from his diverse collaborations. An admirer of Frank Lloyd Wright’s architecture since childhood, this performance will include works directly inspired by his experiences spending time in Frank Lloyd Wright structures.

Internationally acclaimed and hailed as “one of the bravest, most intriguing musicians on the American fusion scene” by Gramophone magazine, Mike Block was celebrated by the New York Times for his “vital rich-hued solo playing,” and as “a true artist… a sight to behold” by the Salt Lake City Desert News.

Availability is limited to 60 people and admission to the event is $50. All ticket sales benefit the Manitowoc Symphony Orchestra. Tickets are available by visiting manitowocsymphony.org/mike-block.
The event will begin with a welcome reception 6:00 pm. Snacks and drinks will be provided. The concert begins at 7:00 pm.

“Mike Block not only a brilliant cellist, but he’s also an inspiring multi-style musician who defies genre and bridges divides,” enthused MSO Music Director Dylan Chmura-Moore. “He is inspiring and will inspire you! An evening listening to world-class artistry, up close and personal, surrounded by world-class architecture? Yes, please!”

“Over the years, we have had numerous house concerts and fundraisers at Still Bend and are thrilled to have such a renowned artist perform at the house,” remarked Michael Dittmer and Sarah Chambers, owners of Still Bend. “Mike Block contacted us asking to include the house as part of his 2026 Frank Lloyd Wright Concert Tour and we thought it would be a perfect opportunity to raise funds for the Manitowoc Symphony Orchestra."

04/25/2026

04/15/2026

The color of sound is seductive. It’s mesmerizing. It’s one important way we consider meaning, expression, tradition, culture. Sound is everything. Next season, that gorgeous sensuous thing takes the spotlight. Every piece, each concert, is uniquely selected to be performed next season because of its awesome and diverse tone color. Appreciate all that’s possible.

Get your seats here: https://manitowocsymphony.org/season-tickets/

04/14/2026

Meet our new Executive Director, Jennifer Spiering

Jennifer Spiering, a native of Manitowoc, will become executive director of the Manitowoc Symphony Orchestra following the retirement of Peggy Pitz.

04/12/2026

04/12/2026

A present on the podium…

Last night, JUST before the concert was to begin, from backstage, I saw something sitting tall on my conductor stand. Was someone playing a trick? Were my scores moved? The show was just moments from starting!

Later, I discovered what was up. It was a gift. Amazing! Inside? My favorite PICKLES from Lakeshore United Methodist Church. 🤣 Double-amazing.

This is why The Lakeshore is the best. Pickles on a podium.

04/10/2026

Sat, Apr 11, 7:30pm Capitol Civic Centre. Tix: manitowocsymphony.com

04/10/2026

Sat, Apr 11, hear guest artist Andrew Dunlap perform Bruch's unforgettable violin concerto @ Capitol Civic Centre.

Also, Beethoven's first symphony is on the program! It sets the stage for all the inspirational music that is to come. (And over the next nine years we'll perform all nine of his symphonies! Be there for every one.)

Mozart also parties with us on our 75th anniversary season finale. And you know he's always a good time.

More info and tickets: https://manitowocsymphony.org/beloved-beethoven-bruch/

04/08/2026

Sat, Apr 11 @ Capitol Civic Centre we toast our 75th year by starting a new nine-year cycle of Beethoven’s influential and superb symphonies. Native son, violinist Andrew Dunlap, returns to the Lakeshore to perform the daring, dazzling, uber-emotive Bruch violin concerto in G minor. The G stands for grandiose.

More info and tix: https://manitowocsymphony.org/beloved-beethoven-bruch/