ESCANABA, Mich. – Bay College is pleased to welcome the True North String Quartet back to the Strings on the Bay Chamber Concert Series for a special performance on Tuesday, August 11, 2026, at 7:00 p.m. ET in the Besse Center Theater on Bay College’s Escanaba campus. The concert, titled American Echoes: Artistic Archetypes and Eternal Optimism, honors the series’ enduring legacy while celebrating the cultural heritage and spirit of the United States.
The True North String Quartet features Paul Lundin and Joseph Deller on violin, Janine Bradbury on viola, Stefan Koch on cello, and Maurita Peterson Holland on Piano. Their Americana-themed program opens with Ernst von Dohnányi ‘s Serenade for String Trio, a work that has been heard throughout the series’ history since 1968. The evening continues with William Grant Still’s Lyric Quartette, a vivid musical portrait of African American life, and Antonín Dvořák’s String Quartet in F Major (“American Quartet”), inspired by the composer’s time in the United States and infused with folk-influenced melodies.
The concert’s grand finale will feature a unique collaboration between the quartet, acclaimed pianist Maurita Peterson Holland, and a choir composed of local community singers performing We Call Ourselves Americans, a new anthem by Dr. James Irwin. Audience members will also have an opportunity to join in the singing, creating a shared musical experience that emphasizes togetherness, reflection, and hope as the nation marks its 250th anniversary.
“We are excited to bring this meaningful program to the community and to celebrate the power of music to connect people,” said Emily Olson, President and Artistic Director of Beacon Arts Michigan. “The finale invites everyone to become part of the performance and celebrate what unites us through song.”
Community members interested in joining the choir are encouraged to contact Emily Olson at emily@beaconartsmichigan.org. Sheet music is available in advance, and a rehearsal for participating singers will take place 45 minutes before the concert. Community vocalists may also participate in companion performances on August 9, 2026, in Manistique and August 10, 2026, in Curtis.
Tickets are $15 at the door, and veterans attend free. The public is invited to experience an evening of exceptional chamber music and community celebration as the True North String Quartet returns to Bay College.
###
Comments