The South Bend Symphony Orchestra will present two “Celebration for a King” concerts Jan. 16-17.
The symphony is partnering with local churches to celebrate the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Hosted by Dr. Marvin Curtis, symphony board president, the concerts honor King’s vision of unity and highlight the contributions of African American composers.
This year’s program features works by Florence Price and William Grant Still and performances by a community choir directed by Turrell O’Neal. The concerts will feature unseen footage of King during his visit to South Bend and a preview of the trailer for The Invisible Player.
“These concerts are not just performances—they’re a tribute to the enduring spirit of Dr. King’s legacy, brought to life through the powerful voices of African American composers and the sacred space of the Black Church, where so much of this history took root,” Curtis said in a press release.
The concerts will take place:
- 7 p.m. Jan. 16 at St. Augustine Catholic Parish, South Bend
- 7 p.m. Jan. 17 at Mt. Carmel Missionary Baptist Church, South Bend
The concert series is free and open to the public, but registration is requested.
“By bringing together local church choirs and the symphony, we aim to create a moment where every corner of our community can connect, reflect and find unity in the music and message of Dr. King,” Curtis said. “It’s a celebration of our shared history and a call to embrace our collective future.”
