Lyon College announces fall 2025 music performance schedule

The Lyon College Music Department has announced its fall 2025 performance schedule, featuring guest performers alongside college and community ensembles, as well as student showcases.

All concerts will be presented in Sloan Auditorium in the Brown Fine Arts Building on the Lyon College campus, 2300 Highland Road, Batesville. Admission to all events is free, and the public is invited.

“This fall, we are excited to welcome world-class guest artists while also highlighting the incredible talent within our community and our student body,” said John Christian, Lyon College director of bands. “From large ensembles to intimate chamber music, the season offers something for every listener.”

Together, faculty and students aim to present a concert season that blends artistic excellence with community engagement.

“Music creates a sense of well-being through the powerful connection to memories, inspiration and joyful connection with others,” said Dr. Bethany Neese, director of vocal activities and assistant professor of music. “We look forward to sharing performances that reflect the dedication of our students, the artistry of our faculty, and the vibrant musical and cultural life of our region.”

Featured artists and ensembles

Sept. 21, 2 p.m. — Dr. Skye Hart, guest organist Lyon College alumnus Skye Hart, a versatile musician with a passion for solo and church music, has performed throughout the United States, Europe and Mexico. He is director of music and liturgy at St. Maria Goretti Church in Scottsdale, Arizona, and leads the Gregorian Schola at All Saints Newman Center at Arizona State University. Hart is also a classically trained singer and featured on the album “The First Printed Organ Music” (Gothic label). He earned a doctor of musical arts in organ performance from Arizona State University and holds undergraduate degrees in music and French from Lyon College.

Oct. 19, 2 p.m., and Dec. 14, 2 p.m. — Diamond Wind Ensemble The Diamond Wind Ensemble, a newly formed music ensemble, features college musicians and local performers from the north-central Arkansas region. The ensemble presents a varied program that includes classic wind band literature and contemporary works.

Oct. 26, 2 p.m. — Lyon College Symphonic Wind Ensemble and Chamber Choir The Lyon College Symphonic Wind Ensemble, under the direction of John Christian, will present a diverse repertoire of wind compositions showcasing the group’s musical versatility and precision. The Lyon College Chamber Choir, led by new director Dr. Bethany Neese, will perform a wide range of choral selections.

Nov. 1, 7 p.m. — White River Sinfonia Under the direction of John Christian, the White River Sinfonia blends community musicians and students to deliver orchestral performances mixing beloved classics with new compositions.

Nov. 11, 7 p.m. — Kahlo String Quartet The Kahlo String Quartet unites a mission to bridge classical music with Latin American traditions. Members Audrey Lee (United States), Manuela Romero (Cuba), Freddy Contreras (Venezuela) and Andrea Beltran Landers (Peru) explore music from their cultural roots while engaging with composers worldwide.

Nov. 12, all day — High School Honors String Orchestra High school honors string students from around the state and region will perform, collaborating with Lyon College faculty and students for an inspiring display of emerging talent.

Nov. 14, 7 p.m. — Lyon College Gospel Choir Under the direction of Baretta Robinson, the Gospel Choir will present its semester concert featuring spirituals and other gospel music.

Nov. 19, 7 p.m. — Music Department Studio Showcase Lyon College music students will present solo and chamber music works demonstrating their artistic growth.

Dec. 5, 7 p.m. — Christmas at Lyon College, featuring Dr. Michael Buckles, violin soloist The Lyon College Symphonic Wind Ensemble and Chamber Choir will present their annual Christmas gift to the community in a festive concert. Michael Buckles, provost and vice president for academic affairs and professor of music at McNeese State University, will appear as a violin soloist. He earned a doctor of musical arts degree from Louisiana State University and has performed with ensembles including the Louisiana Philharmonic Orchestra and the Aloha Piano Quartet.

Dec. 10, all day — High School Honors Band and Honors Choir Outstanding high school band and vocal students from the region will showcase their talents alongside Lyon College faculty and student mentors.

Dec. 11, 6:30 p.m. — Lyon College on Tour: Southside High School, Batesville Students from the Lyon College band and choir will present a concert with Southside High School ensembles on the campus of Southside High School, 70 Scott Drive, Batesville.

For more information about the choral programs at Lyon College, contact Dr. Neese at Bethany.Neese@Lyon.edu. For more information about the bands at Lyon College, contact Christian at John.Christian@Lyon.edu. Call (870) 307-7075 for general information.

Image provided by Lyon College