One of Britain’s great musical institutions, this group is celebrated for their commitment to perfection in blend, balance and intonation. The sextet sings medieval to Renaissance music, lieder to folk, classical to pop and jazz, all a cappella.

     This folk ensemble is known for its dance prowess, infectious enthusiasm and vibrantly colored costumes. The Cossack warriors show their acrobatic skills and swordplay while female dancers glide gracefully across the stage, to celebrate their homeland with humor and optimism.

     This "theater without words" from Finland is recognized throughout Europe as a pioneer of the New Circus. Making its American debut this season, it mixes juggling and aerial work with cabaret theater, street performance, movement and humor. Web site (includes a video).

     Faculty member John Kilkenny co-directs the Symphonic Band with Michael Nickens. The band will include Percy Grainger’s Shepherd’s Hey, Aaron Copeland’s An Outdoor Overture and the Prelude and Fugue in B-Flat Minor of J. S. Bach. Under Mr. Kilkenny’s direction, the Percussion Ensemble will present the Second Construction by John Cage, Conservatory Garden by Daniel Levitan and Debussy’s String Quartet in G Minor, Movement II, among others.

     The concert will feature a premiere by visiting guest artist Christopher d'Amboise.

     This annual concert is a benefit for charities and pro bono work supported by the Fairfax Law Foundation and the music scholarship fund at George Mason’s School of Music. Among their selections may be Johnny Mercer’s "Summer Wind," Harlem Nocturne by Earl Hagen, Michelangelo by Astor Piazzólla and Duke Ellington’s Caravan.

     Formed in 1879 and now known as "the best in the Far East," the orchestra performs works of China's composers as well as music of the Western world. Their program will include Rachmaninoff's Piano Concerto No. 2 with 17-year-old Peng Peng, Tchaikovsky's Romeo and Juliet overture and China Air suite by Bao Yuankai.

     The American Youth Philharmonic Orchestras (AYPO) provides competitive world-class training and performance opportunities for young musicians, age 7-21. It is the Youth Orchestra in Residence at George Mason’s Center for the Arts.

     Two vocal groups will perform, Soundcheque and the Timesquare Singers, with several soloists. Soundcheque’s offerings will include "Acapella in Acapulco" by The Real Group, "Autumn Leaves" arr. by Darren Motton and "Signed, Sealed and Delivered, I’m Yours" by Stevie Wonder, arr. by Engebretson. Timesquare Singers will do "Boy with Dreams" by Terry Barr, "I’ve Gotta Run" by Ann Marie White and "In Short" by Luke Walker.