Bozeman Symphony’s Free Community Concert Returns February 21

BOZEMAN, Mont. — The Bozeman Symphony will present its annual free Community Concert featuring Dan Brown’s Wild Symphony on Saturday, Feb. 21, at the Willson Auditorium. Conducted by Music Director Norman Huynh and narrated by Riley O’Toole, Associate Artistic Director of Montana Shakespeare in the Parks, the program is designed for children ages 5–12 and provides an engaging introduction to orchestral music for audiences of all ages.

Wild Symphony brings nearly two dozen musical portraits from the animal kingdom to life on stage and is quickly becoming a modern children’s classic. Audiences will journey from the joyful rhythms of “Bouncing Kangaroo,” to the mysterious melodies of “Wondrous Whale,” and the hair-raising harmonies of “Brilliant Bat.” The music is inspired by Brown’s New York Times bestselling children’s book of the same name, which features vibrant illustrations that complement the score.

Concertgoers are encouraged to come dressed as their favorite animal or those from Wild Symphony: Mouse, Woodbird, Kangaroo, Kittens, Ray, Hippo, Frogs, Ostrich, Armadillo, Boar, Ponies, Whale, Cheetah, Elephant, Rat, Beetles, Spiders, Bat, Swan, and Cricket.

Brown, best known as the #1 New York Times bestselling author of The Da Vinci Code, reveals another side of his creativity as a lifelong musician and composer. Wild Symphony reflects his early inspiration from beloved works such as Peter and the Wolf, The Carnival of the Animals, and The Young Person’s Guide to the Orchestra.

Also returning to the Community Concert this year is the Bozeman Symphony’s Instrument Petting Zoo, offered before, between, and after each performance. Young attendees can explore orchestral instruments up close with the help of knowledgeable “instrument zookeepers.” Children will have the chance to touch instruments, learn proper holding techniques, identify instrument families, and even try making music themselves.

“For more than 30 years, the Bozeman Symphony has presented free community concerts to inspire young people and create opportunities for everyone to experience the joy of symphonic music,” said Executive Director Jacob Blaser. “These performances often spark a child’s interest in playing an instrument, creating a ripple effect that uplifts and unites generations. It’s one of the most rewarding ways we fulfill our mission.”

Two public performances of Wild Symphony will take place on Saturday, Feb. 21, at 10:30 a.m. and 1 p.m. at 404 W. Main St. in downtown Bozeman. In addition, all area fourth graders will attend a special concert on Thursday, Feb. 19.

These events are made possible through the generous support of sponsors Calum & Tricia DeSouza, Bob & Donna Ritchie, Bruce and Kimberlie Jodar, and the Arne & Steffi Siegel Endowment of the Montana Community Foundation. The Bozeman Symphony also thanks Eckroth Music for providing instruments and staff for the Instrument Petting Zoo.

Admission is free, but tickets are required. Reserve seats at bozemansymphony.org/community-concert or call 406-585-9774.

January 20, 2026
Contact: Peggy Stebbins
Office: 406.585.9774
peggy@bozemansymphony.org