Cultural District

HACCM (Hellenic-American Cultural Center & Museum) brings together artists from San Francisco, the East Coast, and Portland for a performance devoted to the music of the late Mikis Theodorakis. Many will know Theodorakis for his film scores (like the iconic “Zorba the Greek”), but he was also a symbol of resistance throughout his life. Whether your taste runs to Greek folk, classical, or liturgical music, this concert has something for you. The ensemble performs a range of Theodorakis’ most treasured songs — pieces as historically significant as they are musically beautiful. This includes “Ballad of Mauthausen,” set to the poetry of Holocaust survivor Iakovos Kambanellis, and widely regarded as one of the most beautiful songs ever written about the Holocaust. In addition to live music, attendees will learn about the enduring cultural significance of Theodorakis’ music. There will also be a reception prior to the concert’s start. Tickets: $50

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.

This concert will be performed twice: November 20 at 7:30 PM and Sunday, November 22 at 4:00 PM.

The theme for this year'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. Our fall concert is also when we bring out THE BIG DRUMS.

Saturday, November 14 at 7:00 pm
Sunday, November 15 at 2:00 pm

For more information and to purchase tickets, please visit portlandtaiko.org.

The Portland State University Chamber Choir, described by Classics Today as “amongst the finest choirs in the world,” will perform at the Music @ Midday series. Join us for 50 minutes of our favorite selections, including Classical, Pop, and World Music.

View the concert livestream or recording.

Concert program available shortly before the concert.

The Music @ Midday Series is a weekly opportunity to experience the sounds of the PSU School of Music & Theater. Join us on Fridays during fall, winter, and spring terms for a diverse program of concerts featuring students, faculty, and special guests.

View the Music @ Midday Series page for all upcoming concerts.