The East Texas Symphony Orchestra is set to present its sixth annual Symphony in the Park this Labor Day weekend, a free community concert scheduled for Bergfeld Park in Tyler. The performance, led by conductor Richard Lee, is slated to commence at 7 p.m. at the park, which is located at 1510 S. College Ave. in Tyler. The event marks a continued tradition for the orchestra and the city, inviting residents to experience orchestral music in an outdoor setting during this annual weekend.
This year's concert is presented in partnership with The City of Tyler and is designed as a family-friendly gathering for all ages. To ensure a comfortable experience, attendees are encouraged to arrive early, allowing ample time to find a suitable spot for the evening's musical program. Guests have the option of utilizing the park’s existing seating or bringing their own blankets and lawn chairs to set up on the grass.
The musical program curated for this year's Symphony in the Park will feature a diverse array of selections. The orchestra will perform a blend of light classical favorites, well-known music derived from popular stage and screen productions, and a collection of popular songs. Additionally, the concert will include patriotic works and will offer the audience a preview of the East Texas Symphony Orchestra’s upcoming 2026-2027 season. Specific pieces slated for performance include Mendelssohn’s "Wedding March" from A Midsummer Night’s Dream, the arrangement by Doan of Brahms’ "How Lovely is Thy Dwelling Place" from German Requiem, and Rimsky-Korsakov’s "Flight of the Bumblebee" from Tale of the Tsar Saltan. The program further highlights American composers with Copland’s "Saturday Night Waltz & Hoedown" from Rodeo, and the iconic "The Stars and Stripes Forever March" by Sousa.
The East Texas Symphony Orchestra, via its website, encouraged the community to "bring your blankets, your lawn chairs, and your friends" for the evening.
The realization of this free public concert is made possible through the dedicated support of various community partners and sponsors. Southside Bank serves as the season sponsor for the East Texas Symphony Orchestra. The Rogers Foundation is recognized as the presenting sponsor specifically for the Symphony in the Park event. Further vital support is provided by the Byers Family Foundation, Christus Health, the R.W. Fair Foundation, Harry’s Building Materials Inc., with contributions from Teresa Tosh Langley and Billy Langley, and Yosemite Roofing, supported by Madison and Josiah Rosebury. This collective sponsorship ensures the orchestra can continue to offer accessible cultural events to the people of Tyler and Smith County.
The East Texas Symphony Orchestra extends its invitation to the community to gather at Bergfeld Park this weekend to enjoy this annual musical offering.
