The Human Spirit: FREE Orchestral Concert in Newark, NJ

Newark, NJ – The New Jersey Intergenerational Orchestra (NJIO) invites the public to a free concert celebrating music that uplifts and reflects the human spirit on Sunday, March 1st at 3pm at the Cathedral Basilica of the Sacred Heart in Newark.

This performance marks NJIO's first appearance in the Cathedral Basilica's Concert Series and first performance in the city of Newark. The program features William Grant Still's Afro-American Symphony, the first symphony by a Black composer to be performed by a major American orchestra, alongside works by Samuel Coleridge-Taylor, José Pablo Moncayo, and Enrique Granados. NJIO's three intergenerational orchestras will perform works that embody joy, beauty, and resilience, showcasing the organization's mission to make orchestral music more accessible and joyful for all ages.

"This concert is about experiencing the power of live orchestral music in one of New Jersey’s most spectacular architectural spaces," said Allison Russo, NJIO’s Managing Director. "We're creating a welcoming, relaxed atmosphere where families, music lovers, and anyone curious about classical music can connect with performances that speak to our shared humanity."

The afternoon begins at 2:40pm with a pre-concert performance by Keys 2 Success, featuring young Newark piano students, followed by the main concert at 3pm. The Cathedral Basilica's soaring neo-Gothic architecture and exceptional acoustics provide a unique setting that enhances the orchestral experience.

To ensure all audience members feel comfortable, NJIO offers a Concert Comfort Station in the concert lobby where attendees can borrow additional cushions, fidget toys, coloring pages and crayons, and large print program books.

This concert is made possible by funds from the New Jersey State Council on the Arts, a partner agency of the National Endowment for the Arts, and our season sponsors: the Frank and Lydia Bergen Foundation, the Plainfield Foundation, The Henry S. and Agnes M. Truzack Foundation, Standish Foundation, and many other generous supporters. NJIO is a proud participating organization in the Families First Discovery Pass Program, a program of the NJ Departments of Health and Human Services.

EVENT DETAILS:

• What: "The Human Spirit" Winter Concert

• When: Sunday, March 1, 2026 | Pre-concert performance 2:40pm | Concert 3pm

• Where: Cathedral Basilica of the Sacred Heart, 89 Ridge Street, Newark, NJ 07104

• Admission: Free, no tickets required

NJIO is committed to ensuring that its programs and concerts are accessible. For more information regarding the concert or to inquire about patron services, please contact NJIO at [email protected], or visit NJIO’s website www.njio.org

About New Jersey Intergenerational Orchestra:

New Jersey Intergenerational Orchestra, now in its 32nd season, creates accessible opportunities for people of all ages and stages of life to joyfully participate in classical music. Recognized nationally as an Intergenerational Program of Distinction by Generations United, NJIO welcomes new members of all ages and abilities to one of its orchestras, depending on space availability – no audition required!

Info: Performance featuring young Newark piano students.

Info: NJIO's three intergenerational orchestras will perform works that embody joy, beauty, and resilience, showcasing the organization's mission to make orchestral music more accessible and joyful for all ages.

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