Music❯World Music

Norman Huynh, Conductor
Steiger Butte Drum and Singers, Native American ensemble
Members of Portland State University Chamber Choir, Ethan Sperry, Conductor
Oregon Symphony

STRAVINSKY Symphonies of Wind Instruments
Michael GORDON Natural History
Grace MIEDZIAK New work (Fear No Music Emerging Composers Fellow, Oregon Symphony commission)
BEETHOVEN Symphony No. 1 in C major, Op. 21

Inspired by Crater Lake National Park, Michael Gordon’s Natural History weaves Native and symphonic music in this paean to the natural landscape. Plus, hear works by two of classical music’s most intrepid pioneers: Stravinsky’s experimental musical essay on wind and brass sounds, Symphonies of Wind Instruments, and Beethoven’s vivacious and dramatic Symphony No. 1. Native Oregonian Grace Miedziak enhances the program with a new work that celebrates the Pacific Northwest.

On Sunday, November 1st, Oregon Koto-Kai, the Japanese Koto Music Society of Oregon, will present its 15th Annual Fall Concert. This year’s concert will feature traditional and modern koto ensemble pieces selected to honor the koto mastery and memory of the late Kazue Sawai. The music will be complemented by beautiful art on stage created by local artist Satoko Motouji.

Kazue Sawai cofounded the Sawai Koto Institute based in Tokyo, Japan with her husband, koto master and composer Tadao Sawai. Not only was she the instructor and mentor to our Artistic Director, Mitsuki Dazai, but her passion and innovative playing style was an inspiration to our entire group and koto players worldwide. Our program honors that legacy with traditional pieces signature to her repertoire and boundary-pushing compositions from the Sawai catalog.

From the celebrated and award-winning composer Dave Malloy comes Natasha, Pierre and The Great Comet of 1812, an electropop opera based on a scandalous slice of Leo Tolstoy’s War and Peace. Young and impulsive, Natasha Rostova arrives in Moscow to await the return of her fiancé from the front lines. When she falls under the spell of the roguish Anatole, it is up to Pierre, a family friend in the middle of an existential crisis, to pick up the pieces of her shattered reputation. Following a critically exalted premiere at Ars Nova in New York City, a subsequent off-Broadway transfer and an acclaimed run on Broadway, this award-winning musical expands the possibilities for the genre with its daring score and bold storytelling.

Music and Lyrics By Dave Malloy

The name Cantrip is an Old Scots word meaning a charm, magic spell or piece of mischief and it aptly describes the unexpected twists and turns in their musical arrangements, likewise the compelling potency of their musicianship. Swirling border pipes, raging fiddle, thunderous guitar and three rich voices blend to create a sound energetic enough to tear the roof off. Echoes can be heard of trad music from the 1960s and 70s, but the years have slowly infested their music with the sounds of funk, metal, bluegrass, swing, and even klezmer.

Originally formed as a quartet, Cantrip sprung from a local session in Edinburgh nearly twenty years ago. Their driving music immediately caught the attention of the masses, and they were quickly signed to the Foot Stompin' label. With their first album "Silver" (2001) in hand, Cantrip made its way across the water to the United States, where they were received with roars and shouts (of enjoyment). After years of significant touring, the band parted ways with Foot Stompin' and began producing albums on their own. Two albums later ("Boneshaker" in 2005 and "Piping the Fish" in 2008), Cantrip had cemented itself as a perennial figure. After a period of hiatus in which children were born and continents were left for new ones, Cantrip redefined its sound. Trimming itself to a trio, the band tightened its arrangements while expanding its influence. New inspirations began creeping into the sound, complementing the traditional foundation of the band. This more mature sound debuted on their recent release "The Crossing" (2016), to high acclaim. In 2018, the band gathered 50 of its closest friends and fans and returned to its roots, re-recording Silver in a live format (Cantrip Live), re-arranged and with a more youthful sound than the original. The process inspired a new approach for the band, which they implemented for their upcoming fifth studio album. In late 2019, they spent a week in their original home of Edinburgh creating and recording new music. All of the tracks on this album were captured live in one take by engineer and longtime friend of the band Reuben Taylor. This seminal album, slated to be released in Fall 2020, shows a new and darker side of the group while preserving the elements that audiences have come to know and love. After 20 years of touring, Cantrip has found a character like no other. Since 2023, the band is back to being a quartet, featuring Dan Houghton, Jon Bews, Eric McDonald, and now Alasdair White (Battlefield Band).

Step into a slippery world where the line between truth and fiction is all in the packaging. It’s 1936, and a pair of passionate filmmakers has landed their next big project: a sweeping Spanish Civil War film with the potential to change American hearts and minds. It just happens to be bankrolled by the KGB. Spain by Jen Silverman is a seductive and tense thriller about the power of art to change the world — for better and for worse.

by Jen Silverman, directed by Josh Hecht

One of the most ambitious productions in recent Profile history, Spain is a grand cross-disciplinary spectacle featuring multiple partnerships with arts organizations throughout Portland, including live opera developed in partnership with Portland Opera, and both recorded and live music performed by musicians with 45th Parallel.

Jake Shimabukuro is a world-renowned ukulele virtuoso whose groundbreaking artistry has redefined the instrument for the 21st century. Hailed as the “Jimi Hendrix of the ukulele,” Shimabukuro has captivated audiences across the globe with his masterful technique, innovative spirit, and deeply expressive performances that seamlessly blend elements of jazz, rock, classical, blues, folk, and traditional Hawaiian music.

Born and raised in Honolulu, Hawai‘i, Jake began playing the ukulele at age four, quickly developing a unique style that pushed the instrument far beyond its traditional boundaries. He first gained international recognition after his jaw-dropping rendition of George Harrison’s “While My Guitar Gently Weeps” went viral, introducing millions to the ukulele’s untapped potential.

Over the course of his career, Shimabukuro has released numerous acclaimed albums, collaborated with an array of legendary artists—including Bette Midler, Yo-Yo Ma, Jimmy Buffett, Ziggy Marley, and Mick Fleetwood—and performed everywhere from the Sydney Opera House to the Hollywood Bowl and the Kennedy Center. His most recent projects showcase both his dazzling technical command and his growing focus on emotional storytelling through music.

Beyond the stage, Jake is a passionate advocate for music education and community outreach, frequently performing at schools and benefit concerts to inspire the next generation of musicians. Whether playing an intimate solo show or headlining with a full band, Shimabukuro continues to prove that the ukulele is an instrument of infinite possibilities—one that speaks a universal language of joy, connection, and hope.

Choreographer Lai Hung-Chung makes dances of striking beauty and intention. “Birdy,” his captivating signature work for Hung Dance, moves between suspense and explosive energy, between the weight of tradition and the pull toward something new. Hung Dance blends traditional Chinese arts, including tai chi, Peking Opera, and classical Chinese music, with contemporary dance technique and driving electronic music, creating work that is poetic and rhythmic at once. What audiences see on stage is a world in constant transformation, where bodies bend and resist, images linger, and the tension between holding on and letting go becomes the dance itself.

TAIPEI CITY, TAIWAN

Birdy

“…a dreamy sensibility with astonishing athleticism in culturally sensitive modern dance performance.” —Charlie Smith, Pancouver

Sponsored by George & Nancy Thorn. White Bird’s Uncaged Series Sponsor: Ronni Lacroute

The Friday and Saturday performances will have pre-show talks. Come early to hear from the dancers from 6:15–6:45 PM. No ticket needed.

Join us November 3rd for the Hung Dance Lecture Demonstration, FREE with RSVP here .

Trans-Siberian Orchestra is back with a spectacular new production of The Ghosts of Christmas Eve: The Best of TSO and More – featuring the fan-favorite holiday rock opera alongside TSO classics, and rarely performed gems.

Shows:

November 28 at 3:30pm & 8pm

Allison Russell is a compelling singer, songwriter, and multi-instrumentalist with strong ties to the folk community. She first made her name in the 2000s as a member of the eclectic Canadian roots group Po' Girl before forming the duo Birds of Chicago in 2012 with her husband and creative partner JT Nero. Taking inspiration from a wide array of sources, Russell's songs have threaded through jazz, country, folk, Celtic, klezmer, and blues to become a distinctive amalgam of her own making. Not unlike fellow Renaissance woman and Our Native Daughters bandmate Rhiannon Giddens, her musical versatility has made her difficult to pigeonhole while also helping to establish her as a linchpin of roots music in general. In 2021, after two decades of musical exploration, Russell made her solo debut with the Juno Award-winning Outside Child. Her solo follow-up, the joyful, Grammy-winning The Returner, arrived two years later. She also made her Broadway debut in 2024, returning a year later with the protest-fueled Annie Lennox collaboration "Superlover" and "Comes a Time" with the Doobie Brothers. Russell's guest-heavy third album, In the Hour of Chaos, arrived in 2026, featuring appearances from artists like Norah Jones and Ruby Amanfu.

Inspired by Crater Lake National Park, Michael Gordon’s Natural History weaves Native and symphonic music in this paean to the natural landscape. Plus, hear works by two of classical music’s most intrepid pioneers: Stravinsky’s experimental musical essay on wind and brass sounds, Symphonies of Wind Instruments,and Beethoven’s vivacious and dramatic Symphony No. 1. Oregonian Grace Miedziak enhances the program with a new work that celebrates the Pacific Northwest.

• Norman Huynh Conductor
• Steiger Butte Drum and Singers Native American ensemble
• Members of Portland State University Chamber Choir Ethan Sperry, Conductor
• Oregon Symphony

• STRAVINSKY Symphonies of Wind Instruments
• Michael GORDON Natural History
• Grace MIEDZIAK Cascadence (Rizzo-Cummings Emerging Composer Fellow at the Oregon Symphony, Oregon Symphony commission)
• BEETHOVEN Symphony No. 1 in C Major, Op. 21

This concert is part of Classical Series A, and is eligible for the Choose Your Own Series (Portland only). Concert length is approximately 1 hour 33 minutes, with one intermission.

This pre-concert talk takes place one hour before the Sunday matinee performance.

SUN, NOV 1, 1PM: Conductor Norman Huynh and Rizzo-Cummings Emerging Composer Fellow Grace Miedziak with All Classical Radio host Warren Black.

As the trailblazers of progressive Irish dance, Trinity Irish Dance Company has spent 35 years redefining the art form through the vision of Founding Artistic Director Mark Howard. This family-friendly program, featuring live music from the company’s own folk-rock band, draws from new and classic Trinity repertoire. Highlights will include the Portland/Northwest premieres of “Pasture Bedtime, Bleating Hearts,” a whimsical work by Portland’s own Ashley Roland and Jamey Hampton of BodyVox; “Séseacht,” choreographed by renowned tap dancer Michelle Dorrance in collaboration with the company; and “The Sash,” choreographed by Mark Howard, Chelsea Hoy, and Stephanie Martinez. Trinity has sold out stages across Europe, Asia, and North America—a tradition kept restlessly alive through their distinct artistry.

A Tuareg singer/songwriter and guitarist who is known for his innovative and intense playing style, Mdou Moctar rose from a small village in Niger to earn viral success among West Africa's cell phone-trading network. An appearance on an American compilation in 2010 led to international recognition and further exploratory releases on the Sahel Sounds label. After starring in a Tuareg-language homage to Purple Rain, Moctar's sound continued to evolve as he pushed his musical boundaries as a multi-instrumentalist on 2017's Sousoume Tamachek. Subsequent albums like Ilana: The Creator (2019) and Afrique Victime (2021) found him infusing his African influences with wild electric psychedelia and full-blast rock and roll to widespread acclaim. 2024's scintillating Funeral for Justice saw Moctar take a stronger political stance on the injustices faced by Niger and the Tuareg people. A reimagined, all-acoustic version of the album was released in early 2025 as Tears of Injustice.

Join Portland Opera for an hour of story and song from their latest production, La Traviata.

Mantra, music, and storytelling to awaken the heart. Sacred Dharma is a Pacific Northwest kirtan-fusion jam band. At its core, they facilitate the devotional practice of chanting Sanskrit mantra. The music is colored by world influences ranging from Indian classical to jazz and psychedelic rock, enhancing the mood so that each repetition of the Name can awaken the heart.

Led by Sitaram Dass with Jeanette Kangas on tabla, Clark Stacer on bass, Lance Jordan on guitar, and a rotating selection of some of the PNW's finest musicians.

Sitaram Dass (he/him) spent several years serving his beloved teacher Ram Dass on Maui, where he was shown the path of Bhakti, the yoga of service and devotion to God. He is an author, teacher, kirtan singer, and spiritual counselor. As the director of the Sacred Community Project, he works to provide affordable, free, and donation-based offerings as a praxis of Sacred Community.

$25 Advance / $30 Door

(No one turned away for lack of funds)

Sharon Gan, founder of Heart Strings Mandarin, will lead children and their parents as they sing, move, play instruments, and tell stories in Mandarin, English and American Sign Language. All levels of Mandarin fluency from absolute beginners to native Mandarin speakers are welcome.

Program presented in partnership with Friends of the Tigard Library.

Dallahan Returns for a special Community Celtic Concert

Thursday, November 12, 2026 – 7:30 pm – 9:30 pm

Artist: Dallahan https://www.dallahanmusic.com/
Tickets and additional information at https://www.tickettomato.com/event/10185/

Forged in Scotland and Ireland’s traditional music scene, but drawing on the music of the Balkans and North America, Dallahan takes their listeners on a journey. Traversing styles and countries of the world in a dazzling live show, they create their unique brand of World-folk delivered with stunning virtuosity. Having performed in over 20 countries, they have become a veteran touring outfit, and with each album, they continue to evolve their sound, as is evident on their upcoming fourth studio album, ‘Speak of the Devil’, which is set for release in early 2023.

Growing up in Hawaii, music was not an option or choice - it was a way of life for Kaloku that grew into today's passion. Motivated by the desire to share the aloha spirit that was instilled in him as a Native Hawaiian, Kaloku incorporates that same spirit of joyful sharing of life energy in the present, into all of his music. For him, a successful performance draws people from different cultures, backgrounds and walks of life to come together and experience something as one.

To date, Kaloku has recorded 3 CD's which include both originals and song covers. His original songs are motivated by his love for his Hawaiian ancestry. Kaloku and the Krew is high energy Island Reggae/Contemporary/Rock/Funk/Jazz that draws the crowds with those smooth island jams that everyone loves!

A one-clown kaleidoscope of beauty, tradition, and tyranny — where a pansori diva, a K-beauty fanatic, and a self-proclaimed dictator collide in a hilarious search for identity and power.
In Take Me to Your Leader: The Seoul of a Clown, beauty, ritual, and absurdity collide in a one-clown fever dream. From the haunting rhythms of pansori to the fluorescent glow of a K-beauty altar, Monel Chang (aka Moldy Melon) shape shifts through characters both divine and deranged: a folk diva, a skincare-obsessed disciple, and a dictator throwing themself a birthday party.

Part satire, part spiritual exorcism, and entirely clown, this genre-defying solo performance unpacks the obsessions that bind — from perfection and purity to power and control. With live sound, ritual gesture, and a face full of toner, The Seoul of a Clown invites audiences into a surreal search for identity, laughter, and liberation.

In Buddhist thought, the Tree of Life is a symbol of awakening, wisdom, and the interconnectedness of all life. Its roots reach deep into the earth while its branches extend toward the sky, reminding us that each generation grows from those that came before and that our lives are shaped by the communities and traditions that sustain us.

Opening the PSU Choirs' concert season, "Tree of Life" explores these themes through music that spans continents and centuries. Performed by the PSU Chamber Choir, Rose Choir and Thorn Choir, the program pairs cherished works from the Classical choral tradition with music by a new generation of Southeast Asian composers. At its center is Indonesian composer Bagus Utomo's Gayatri, inspired by the legendary queen whose wisdom and spiritual devotion remain an enduring part of Indonesian cultural heritage. The concert also features works by Budi Susanto Yohanes, Ily Matthew Maniano and Matthew Lyon Hazzard. Several of these pieces will be recorded later this year by the internationally acclaimed PSU Chamber Choir at Skywalker Sound, offering audiences an opportunity to hear this music before it is released.

Skeleton Crewe brings together original compositions, reimagined Grateful Dead favorites, and expansive improvisations in a musical journey shaped by traditional Hawaiian influences and psychedelic Americana. The group features Rob Barraco on keyboards and vocals, Barry Sless on pedal steel, electric guitar, and vocals, Stephen Inglis on slack key guitar, electric guitar, and vocals, Pete Sears on bass, and Jay Lane on drums and vocals.

After more than three decades, the unstoppable engine of joy that is Pink Martini continues to bring founder Thomas Lauderdale’s mission of multi-cultural connection and inclusion to concert stages on six continents. Presenting a mélange of catchy old-fashioned pop, global color, foot-tapping big band sound, and Hollywood glamour, Oregon’s most famous “little orchestra” performs music intended to appeal to everyone, regardless of age or background.

Performing with a number of iconic voices including the band’s first lead singer China Forbes, the inimitable Storm Large, NPR’s dashing Ari Shapiro, the soulful Edna Vazquez, America’s Got Talent finalist Jimmie Herrod, fan favorite Timothy Nishimoto, and international singing sensation Meow Meow, the “little orchestra” has played on legendary concert stages around the world, including the Hollywood Bowl, Carnegie Hall, the Sydney Opera House, Royal Albert Hall in London, and Bercy Arena in Paris. Pink Martini has released over a dozen albums on its in-house label Heinz Records, including the newest EP, Bella ciao , featuring the anti-fascist title song sung by Storm Large.

“This is rich, hugely approachable music, utterly cosmopolitan yet utterly unpretentious. And it seems to speak to just about everybody … from grade-schoolers to grandmothers to the young and hip and beautiful.” –The Washington Post 1 of 1

Lineup to include Thomas M. Lauderdale (bandleader and piano) Ari Shapiro (lead vocals) Jimmie Herrod (lead vocals) Gina Belafonte (special guest vocals) Ida Rae Cahana (guest vocals)

Bells of the Cascades presents “International Rhythms,” 4-5 p.m. Nov. 8 at Salmon Creek United Methodist Church, 12217 N.E. Highway 99, Vancouver. The concert features music from many different countries, including Grammy- and Oscar-winning songs like “Golden” from KPop Demon Hunters, “Russian Sailors’ Dance” from the ballet “The Red Poppy,” the English folk song “The Turtle Dove” and “Firedance” from “Riverdance.” Tickets are $20 for adults or $5 for students. Children 6 and under are free. No one will be turned away for lack of funds. Buy tickets at bellsofthecascades.org or buy tickets at the door with cash, check or card.

“With Her Own Wings” is a concert-length experience in music, art, film, light, storytelling, emotion, and the human condition, exploring the narrative of women in Iran and across the globe, spurred by the Woman-Life-Freedom movement which began in Iran in 2022. The concert is spearheaded by Iranian-American renowned painter and visual artist Taravat Talepasand and Iranian-American percussionist/composer Christopher Whyte, featuring new contemporary works from composers Anahita Abbasi, Niloufar Nourbakhsh, and Aida Shirazi.

The production is brought to life with stunning imagery and photography by Mario Gallucci, atmospheric cinematography and film projections by Padraic O’Meara, and innovative lighting and production design orchestrated by Solomon Weisbard.

“With Her Own Wings” aims to elevate the voices and talents of Iranian artists, particularly women, through a series of contemporary compositions for solo percussionist and immersive electronic soundscapes, interwoven with powerfully striking visual art, film, and light. This dynamic show traces the journey from sunset to sunrise, symbolizing the enduring struggle and resilience of women who have faced repression and highlighting the emerging generation of artists who advocate for change through the act of artistic expression.

“With Her Own Wings” is supported through the Creative Heights Grant from the Oregon Community Foundation.

Candlelight concerts bring the magic of a live, multi-sensory musical experience to awe-inspiring locations like never seen before in Portland. Get your tickets now to discover the music of Joe Hisaishi at The Old Church Concert Hall under the gentle glow of candlelight.

Tentative Program

• Nausicaa of the Valley of the Wind - Kaze no Tani
• Laputa: Castle in the Sky - Kimi wo Nosete
• My Neighbour Totoro - Kaze no Toori Michi
• My Neighbour Totoro - Main Theme
• Kiki's Delivery Service - Umi no Mieru Machi
• Princess Mononoke - Main Theme
• Spirited Away - Inochi no Namae
• Spirited Away - Chihiro's Waltz
• Ponyo - Gake no Ue no Ponyo
• The Wind Rises - A Journey (A Dream of Flight)
• The Tale of Princess Kaguya - When I Remember This Life
• Howl's Moving Castle - Merry Go Round of Life

Performed by the Listeso String Quartet

Featuring guitar virtuoso Fareed Haque, world-renowned bass master Kai Eckhardt, keyboard wizard Oz Ezzeldin, and drummer Sean Rickman, Garaj Mahal combines a century of musical experience to create a wide spectrum of musical expression.

Fareed Haque is a globally acclaimed guitar virtuoso blending jazz, classical, and world music traditions. Known for his technical mastery and genre-defying style, he has toured and recorded with artists such as Paquito D’Rivera, Sting, and Joe Zawinul. A co-founder of the jam-fusion group Garaj Mahal, Haque has performed extensively worldwide and earned recognition including Guitar Player Magazine’s “Best World Guitarist.” His music seamlessly bridges cultures, delivering a unique and innovative live experience.

Kai Eckhardt is a world-renowned bassist, composer, and educator known for his work at the intersection of jazz, world, and fusion music. A Berklee College of Music graduate, he rose to prominence performing with John McLaughlin and has collaborated with legends including Billy Cobham, Wayne Shorter, and Stanley Clarke. Co-leader of the acclaimed jam-fusion group Garaj Mahal, Eckhardt has toured extensively worldwide and contributed to hundreds of recordings. His dynamic playing and global influences make him a standout voice in modern bass.

Oz Ezzeldin is a pianist, keyboardist, composer, producer, and educator whose virtuosity and versatility have made him a distinctive voice in contemporary jazz and fusion. A North African-American musician based in California, Oz has performed and collaborated with renowned artists including John McLaughlin, Billy Cobham, Randy Brecker, Giovanni Hidalgo, Larry Coryell, Stanley Jordan, and Zakir Hussain. His playing is rooted in sophisticated harmony, deep rhythmic awareness, and a fearless approach to improvisation, allowing him to move effortlessly between jazz, funk, fusion, and world music. As a composer and educator, Oz continues to expand his musical voice while inspiring audiences around the world.

Sean Rickman is an American musician from Washington, D.C. He has worked with Shawn Lane, Garaj Mahal, Dapp Theory, Steve Coleman, Maxwell, Meshell Ndegeocello, Blacksheep, Phil Upchurch, David Fiucynski and Screaming Headless Torsos, Kai Eckhardt, Anthony Tidd's Quite Sane, K'Alyn, Angela Bofill and George Duke. Rickman was lead singer and drummer for Garaj Mahal from 2007 to 2011 and his rock band Big Mouth featuring guitarist Leonard Stevens. He was also featured alongside Herbie Hancock, Wayne Shorter and Marcus Miller on the Tribute to Miles 2011 tour.

Chai and Roses is going Disco for this edition. From Bollywood to the Classics and everything in between. Feeling free on the dance floor is where we want you to be. Dress up or come as you are. See you on the liberation dance floor.

Doors and DJs at 7 p.m. Drag and performances at 9 p.m., Dancing til 11 p.m.Honoring the QTBIPOC folks who came before — radical ancestors who fought to be seen, heard and free to love. Honor the rich diversity of people within the QTBIPOC community. QTBIPOC folks of all backgrounds and identities, as well as allies, are invited. Come together and contribute to a fun and respectful party. Any form of prejudice or discrimination, such as biphobia, fatphobia, or transphobia, will not be tolerated.

DJs:

• Anjali
• b.d.s.m.

Drag Artists and Performers

• Anna Karenema
• Chiffon Chérie
• D-Day
• Hibiscus Lust
• Willy Wankme

Pop Ups

• ChaiWallahPdx
• Flowers for Palestine
• Jungle Candy Henna

Pop Ups

• ChaiWallahPdx
• Jungle Candy Henna

Co-hosted with Pdx Queer Lotus

Polynesian dance and narration from Hawaii, Tahiti, Samoa, and New Zealand with authentic costuming and music. Troupe of 10 to 18 dances for 50 minutes. Interactive dance with the audience—the show is exciting and colorful for all ages.

**Atlantis Lounge is All Ages until 9:00 PM, at that time any minors will be asked to leave the space. Thanks for your understanding!

One of the most beloved operas ever written, La Traviata pairs soaring melodies with a deeply personal story of love and sacrifice. At its center is Violetta, an independent woman navigating desire, societal expectation, and the fragile possibility of happiness on her own terms. As romance and reality collide, Verdi’s luminous score reveals the emotional complexity of living authentically in a world determined to impose its rules. Tender, tragic, and timeless, the opera continues to resonate for its compassionate portrayal of Violetta’s vulnerability, resilience, courage as she chooses personal truth in the face of public judgment.

Join us for a special musical experience in honor of Native American Heritage Month. We are excited to welcome Tommy Graven, a 20‑year multi‑instrumentalist and award-winning songwriter whose work is deeply rooted in the landscapes and traditions of the Pacific Northwest.

Winner of a Global Music Award and recognized as “Native American Flutist of the Year” at the NASFA Awards, Tommy is widely regarded as an inspiring and rising artist in the Native American flute genre.

This program is supported by the Friends of the Lake Oswego Public Library. Admission is free, and no tickets are required. Please note, seating is limited due to the size of the space. Seats will be available on a first-come, first-served basis. A livestream will be available.

Lake Oswego Public Library is located at 706 Fourth Street, Lake Oswego. For more information contact April Younglove at 503-534-5667 or [email protected].

Step into autumn’s splendor as the garden transforms with the colors and textures of chrysanthemums, a flower of nobility and longevity in Chinese culture. Stroll among 81 mum varieties, cascading displays along the waterfall, and sweeping floral sculptures that transform the garden into a living gallery.

From dazzling floral artistry to hands-on learning opportunities, Chrysanthemum Festival is one of the garden's most anticipated annual celebrations—and an unforgettable way to experience Lan Su in fall. Explore this beautiful flower and time of year.

Nov. 5-8 — Nights of the Golden Flower: Immerse yourself in the illuminated works of 18 talented local floral artists and featured designer Toni Tibbits as they interpret this year’s theme, Golden Blooms Upon Autumn Waters. Plus, enjoy gentle music by Lulu Guzheng Studio, dance performances by YZ Dance Academy, floral jewelry-making, and all-ages fun as you wander among glowing lanterns and vote for your favorite designs of the showcase. Sensory Night November 14.

Join Rabbi Cantor Eyal Bitton for a musical journey through Moroccan and Sephardic synagogue traditions. Through live demonstration, audio and video examples, we will explore the distinctive sounds of nusach, tefillah, Torah reading, and Haftarah chanting, comparing Moroccan and Sephardic traditions with Ashkenazi ones. Come listen, learn, and discover the sacred logic behind the melody.

Questions? Email Mel!

FREE SHOW

THE GRAND CELEBRATION is coming to ilani! Get ready for a night packed with stars — Hồ Ngọc Hà, Quang Hà, Hồ Hoàng Yến, Lương Tùng Quang, Tuấn Anh, and MC Hoài Tâm with The Brothers Band!

VALÉ is a fiercely talented vocalist and songwriter from Barranquilla, Colombia. Drawn to music at an early age, VALÉ began performing when she was just 6 years old in her school choir. By her early teens, she had found inspiration in American pop and R&B music, and began writing songs of her own. Influenced by some of her idols, VALÉ started to forge her own unique voice and point of view on the genre. She has spent time writing and recording in Los Angeles and Barranquilla, assembling a new collection of singles leading up to her 2024 debut EP, under the sun, and her latest singles, "estrella," "cold blooded," "lightspeed," and "rapido."

VALÉ's infectious melodies, catchy hooks, and standout vocals are bound to win fans from all over the world, establishing VALÉ as the leader in a new generation of Colombian pop artists. VALÉ has collaborated with artists such as Jesse Baez, Trinidad Cardona, and Angrybaby, and has toured with The Driver Era earlier in 2025. In the fall of 2025, she joined Between Friends on their North American WOW! TOUR!, and in the spring of 2026, she opened for Luna Luna on their For Siempre Tour.

Aside from Papi Fimbres playing in over a thousand bands in and around the city of Portland, Oregon, he also manages to find time to DJ when the opportunity arises. Whether it's '50s & '60s Cumbias from Colombia to Peru or '70s Afro Funk from West Africa, he's always bringing the POC vibes to the dance floors & causing a sweaty dance frenzy.

On Sunday, November 1st, Oregon Koto-Kai, the Japanese Koto Music Society of Oregon, will present its 15th Annual Fall Concert at Lincoln Recital Hall (Room 75). This year’s concert will feature traditional and modern koto ensemble pieces selected to honor the koto mastery...

For more than 20 years, Portland Opera to Go (nicknamed POGO) has shared opera experiences with communities around the region. The Crown Maker is a world-premiere opera inspired by the life and legacy of Eva Castellanos, a Mexican American healer, artist, educator, and tireless advocate for immigrant rights. Rooted in Oregon history and shaped by the traditions of community storytelling, the work explores how creativity, compassion, and cultural knowledge can transform lives across generations.

Told as a traditional corrido, The Crown Maker blends poetry, history, and music to explore how one woman’s vision empowered generations through art, healing traditions, and fearless community leadership. Through an evocative score and intimate storytelling, The Crown Maker honors Castellanoz’ lifelong dedication to uplifting others through art, healing practices, and grassroots activism. Her work created spaces where identity, heritage, and belonging could thrive, even in the face of social and political barriers. The opera examines the lasting influence of those who build community not through power or prestige, but through care, vision, and persistence.

Created especially for Portland Opera to Go audiences, The Crown Maker blends poetry, history, and music to explore how one woman’s vision empowered generations through art, healing traditions, and fearless community leadership. This production brings a uniquely Oregonian story to life, while speaking to universal themes of resilience, memory, and self-determination. The Crown Maker celebrates the power of cultural inheritance and the people who preserve it, inviting audiences of all ages to reflect on how stories, traditions, and acts of courage continue to shape communities today.

Nov. 14 — Two performances at Walters Cultural Arts Center in Hillsboro at 11 a.m. and 2 p.m.

Dec. 4-5 — Three performances at the World Trade Center Theatre.

Jan. 10 — Watch at the historic Clatskanie Cultural Center at 2 p.m.

Jan. 24 — Join the Happy Valley Library at 2 p.m.

Forged in Scotland and Ireland's traditional music scene, but drawing on the music of the Balkans and North America, Dallahan takes their listeners on a journey. Traversing styles and countries from around the world in a dazzling live show, they create their unique brand of world folk, delivered with stunning virtuosity. Having performed in over 20 countries, they have become a veteran touring outfit, and with each album, they continue to evolve their sound.

Come groove to the velvety sound of musical duo Reb Conner and Leon Cotter. Reb and Leon are the Ma and Pa of Portland funk and world band "Reb and the Good News," and their stripped-down duo set retains all that jazzy fullness, scaled to an intimate atmosphere. Multi-instrumentalist Leon is a touring member of the California Honeydrops, and Reb is a singer/songwriter with roots in jazz, soul, and world music. Reb and Leon inspire the heart and nourish the soul, with their curated blend of love songs, jazz standards, and uplifting original work. With a mélange of keys, sax, clarinet, guitar, and lush vocal harmonies, these two take the audience on a sultry, good-time ride that will keep listeners vibing all evening long.

Abbie Weisenbloom presents Katie McNally (fiddle) and Neil Pearlman (piano) featuring the vibrant musical traditions of Scotland and Cape Breton. McNally and Pearlman have performed as a duo for over a decade, making their mark at legendary stages like Newport Folk Festival, playing to buoyant festival plazas in Spain and England, all while maintaining ties to home by leading monthly community sessions at the storied Canadian-American Club in Boston. They’ve often teamed up in larger outfits like New England powerhouse Pine Tree Flyers and Gàidhlig-language unit Fàrsan and their intimate duo show reflects a deep musical trust and intuition built on years of these varied collaborations. Potluck 6:30 pm, show 7:30 pm, Suggested donation is $25-30 at the door - pay what you can. All income levels welcome. To RSVP for a concert or to ask questions, you can use the form on the website or send an email to abbiew(*at*)froggie.com. We invite you to make a voluntary donation of $1 or more for the live streaming portion of the show. 100% of the streaming tips go to the artists! COVID Policy: Masks not required, but you are invited to wear one if you prefer! We have HEPA Filters and open windows. Contact: Abbie Weisenbloom / abbiew(*at*)froggie.com. Join us for an evening of music food & friends! ~ Abbie

Jake Shimabukuro is a world-renowned ukulele virtuoso whose groundbreaking artistry has redefined the instrument for the 21st century. Hailed as the “Jimi Hendrix of the ukulele,” Shimabukuro has captivated audiences across the globe with his masterful technique, innovative spirit, and deeply expressive performances that seamlessly blend elements of jazz, rock, classical, blues, folk, and traditional Hawaiian music.

Born and raised in Honolulu, Hawai‘i, Jake began playing the ukulele at age four, quickly developing a unique style that pushed the instrument far beyond its traditional boundaries. He first gained international recognition after his jaw-dropping rendition of George Harrison’s “While My Guitar Gently Weeps” went viral, introducing millions to the ukulele’s untapped potential.

Over the course of his career, Shimabukuro has released numerous acclaimed albums, collaborated with an array of legendary artists—including Bette Midler, Yo-Yo Ma, Jimmy Buffett, Ziggy Marley, and Mick Fleetwood—and performed everywhere from the Sydney Opera House to the Hollywood Bowl and the Kennedy Center. His most recent projects showcase both his dazzling technical command and his growing focus on emotional storytelling through music.

Beyond the stage, Jake is a passionate advocate for music education and community outreach, frequently performing at schools and benefit concerts to inspire the next generation of musicians. Whether playing an intimate solo show or headlining with a full band, Shimabukuro continues to prove that the ukulele is an instrument of infinite possibilities—one that speaks a universal language of joy, connection, and hope.

Join Makola Performing Arts, led by Okaidja Afroso, for an hour of joyful song and dance! Rooted in circle-based learning, Okaidja brings joy, resilience, and belonging to community spaces across Oregon and beyond.

Speed Dating Tonight!
Music & Libretto by Michael Ching
Based on a concept by Dean Anthony

Portland State University’s Opera program kicks off its 50th anniversary season with Michael Ching’s “Speed Dating Tonight!” (2013). Set over the course of a single evening at a local bar, this clever, heartwarming opera follows a revolving cast of singles searching for that elusive spark. There's the dreamer, the hopeless romantic, the bashful, the over-sharer, the chronically distracted, and everyone in between, each getting their moment in the spotlight through music that is equal parts tender, heartbreaking, and hilarious.

Written with duets and ensembles for up to 45 voices, “Speed Dating Tonight!” has a flexible modular structure that can be customized to fit any cast size, voice type, or gender identity. PSU Opera’s version of “Speed Dating Tonight!” features 35 song selections and arrangements specifically chosen to reflect the unique assortment of voices in the 12-member cast.

At its heart, this is a show about the universal human longing to be seen and cherished by another person. Woven through the interactions is another question: can a genuine connection actually happen in five minutes or less? With Michael Ching’s delightful opera, the answer is decidedly yes.

Visit the Speed Dating Tonight! web page to learn more about this production, including additional dates, cast and crew information, photos, and more as we get closer to opening night.

Learn more about the Opera program at Portland State University's School of Music & Theater.

Lelooska Cultural Center, 165 Merwin Village Road, Ariel, will offer living history performances from 6-8 p.m. Oct. 3, Nov. 7 and Nov. 28. See Northwest Coast masks brought to life through traditional stories, songs, and dances in the cedar ceremonial house. The grounds and museum open at 5 p.m. and the performance begins at 6 p.m. The cost is $18 adults or $16 for seniors and children. Learn more at lelooska.org.

The theme for Portland Taiko's fall concert is kaeru. In Japanese, kaeru has multiple meanings: to return home, to transform and also…frog. The performance will include pieces inspired by the Pacific Northwest, the city of Portland and the idea of home. The fall concert is also when we bring out The Big Drums.

Portland Taiko is supported by the City of Portland Office of Arts & Culture and the Arts Access Fund. Artistic Director is Tiffany Tamaribuchi