Chris Thile

Chris Thile at Century II Concert Hall At Century II Performing Arts & Convention Center

Grammy-winning mandolinist and MacArthur Genius Grant recipient Chris Thile joins the Wichita Symphony Orchestra at Century II Concert Hall on Saturday, March 20, 2027 at 7:30 PM. The Guardian describes him as that rare being: an all-round musician who can settle into any style, from bluegrass to classical. This live orchestral performance pairs his mandolin with full symphonic forces in a program that spans American classical tradition and contemporary composition.

The centerpiece is Thile's playfully ambitious autobiographical composition, ATTENTION! (a narrative song cycle for extroverted mandolinist and orchestra). This work blends storytelling with technical mastery as the mandolin dialogues with the full ensemble, pushing the instrument beyond bluegrass tradition into fresh territory. You could witness a multifaceted musician at the peak of his creative powers.

The evening opens with Quinn Mason's vibrant Toast of the Town before shifting to Aaron Copland's quintessential American soundscape, Appalachian Spring. These works frame Thile's performance, giving you three contrasting pieces to compare. The combination delivers three distinct emotional landscapes in one night.

This isn't background music, it's storytelling through strings and symphonic power, blending wit and technical mastery in ways only Thile can deliver. Check ticket options for Chris Thile at Century II Concert Hall.