BRAVA Magazine

Oakwood Chamber Players: Global Chamber Music
2026-01-17 19:00 - 20:30 (America/Chicago) | Center for Arts & Education at Oakwood Village University Woods, 6205 Mineral Point Rd, Madison, 53705, United States
Start your new year off on a high note with Oakwood Chamber Players, as they kick off 2026 with a refreshing, globally-inspired music series! Family-friendly performances will take place at Oakwood Villages Prairie Ridge (5565 Tancho Drive) on Friday, January 16, and University Woods (6205 Mineral Point Road) on Saturday, January 17, both at 7 p.m., followed by a 2 p.m. matinee at Arts + Literature Laboratory on Sunday, January 18 (111 South Livingston Street).
Experience a multicultural palette of music with touchpoints in each hemisphere. Latin GRAMMY winning composer Gabriela Lena Frank (b. 1972) transforms the classical string quartet into an indigenous ensemble, imitating Peruvian percussion and panpipes in “Leyendas: An Andean Walkabout.” Hear our solo wind instruments soar over a lush bed of strings with Alexander Glazunov’s (1865-1936) “Rêverie Orientale for Clarinet Quintet,” a work blending the Russian Romanticism with Eastern harmonies, and Ralph Vaughan Williams’ (1872-1958) “Six Studies in English Folk Song.” “Scène Champêtre” by Gabriel Allier (1863-1924) sweeps us into the French countryside, showcasing a charming trio of winds.
Oakwood Chamber Players serve as the professional resident ensemble for the Oakwood Village senior living community. Artistic Directors Valree Casey (oboe/English horn), Nancy Mackenzie (clarinet), Amanda Szczys (bassoon), Marie Pauls (viola), and Maggie Townsend (cello) will be joined by guest violinists Isabella Lippi and Peter Miliczky.
Tickets are $25 general admission, $20 seniors, and $5 for students. Run time, 75 minutes, no intermission. For more information and advance ticket sales, visit oakwoodchamberplayers.com

Oakwood Chamber Players: Global Chamber Music
2026-01-18 14:00 - 15:30 (America/Chicago) | Arts + Literature Laboratory, 111 S Livingston St, Suite 100, Madison, WI, 53703, United States

2 Legendary Bobbys Tribute Show
2026-02-15 12:00 - 14:00 (America/Chicago) | Baraboo Arts Center, 323 Water Street, Baraboo, WI, 53913, United States
This performance is by Randy Plunkett of Arena, WI “The Ultimate Edutainer!” A delicious meal followed by a memorable hour filled with songs, stories and insights, Randy will sing their top hits and tell their life stories and the stories behind their songs…don’t miss the salute to these amazing superstars!

Madison Männerchor
2026-03-01 14:00 - 16:00 (America/Chicago) | Minocqua Brewing Company, 2927 East Washington Avenue, Madison, WI, 53704, United States
We’re excited to announce that members of the Madison Männerchor will be singing German drinking songs for Beer Church, and we hope to make it a monthly event moving forward.
These guys know German drinking songs like the back of their hands, an d I they love drinking beer while singing–perfect for our taproom!
Founded in 1852, the Madison Männerchor is the second oldest German singing organization in the United States, and the oldest in Wisconsin. Their goal is the perpetuation of choral music, both German and American, German Culture, and Gemuetlichkeit.
Come one, come all. Singing and drinking beer is what beer church is all about.

Singer/Songwriter Showcase w/ Nick Matthews
2026-03-05 19:00 - 21:00 (America/Chicago) | Minocqua Brewing Company, 2927 East Washington Avenue, Madison, WI, 53704, United States
Nick Matthews, making his MBC MAD return, is a versatile singer, songwriter, and guitarist with a rich musical journey. He honed his craft in New Orleans, immersing himself in the blues, and later recorded in Los Angeles. Over the years, Nick has performed in various formats, from solo and duo acts to full bands, including The Get Happy, an Elvis Costello tribute group. His music spans decades of inspiration, blending the timeless sounds of the early Beatles with the modern edge of artists like Wilco, along with original songs in diverse styles.
Nick’s latest single, “Turn Around,” is now available on all major music platforms.

ECHOES of TIME: LunART Chamber Music Collective at Token Creek
2026-03-08 15:00 - 17:00 (America/Chicago) | Token Creek Concert Barn, 4037 Wisconsin 19, DeForest, WI, 53532-2964, United States
LunArt Chamber Music Collective—whose mission is to support, inspire, promote, and celebrate all women in the arts—presents a concert of works by women composers performed by women. Music for flute, viola and harp byHoover, Larsen, Bonis and Debussy performed by the exciting ensemble of Ugrčić, Breckbill & Wienholts.
A program celebrating women in the arts on International Women’s Day during Women’s History Month 2026. Reception follows.
MUSICIANS:
Iva Ugrčić, flute
Madlen Breckbill, viola
Johanna Wienholts, harp
PROGRAM:
Katherine Hoover — Dances & Variations (for flute & harp)
Mélanie (Mel) Bonis — Scènes de la forêt, Op. 123, for flute, harp, and viola
Libby Larsen — Trio in Four Movements for flute, harp, and viola
Claude Debussy — Sonata for flute, viola, and harp, L. 137

Meskales, Madison's Awesome Ska Band
2026-03-12 19:00 - 21:00 (America/Chicago) | Minocqua Brewing Company, 2927 East Washington Avenue, Madison, WI, 53704, United States
Meskales is an awesome local ska band consisting of 2 trombones, 1 trumpet, drums, and lead singer/guitar. We love a good horn section at MBC, and these guys are gonna unplug (a bit) to accommodate our little space. Ska is fun as hell to listen to, come check it out.

Musical Theater Sneak Peek and Open Mic with Music Theatre of Madison and Secret Special Guest
2026-03-14 18:30 - 20:30 (America/Chicago) | Minocqua Brewing Company, 2927 East Washington Avenue, Madison, WI, 53704, United States
Join us as Music Theatre of Madison presents a preview of their upcoming reading of “Miss Door County” by Madison native Nathan Fosbinder. $1.00 of each tap beer sale will be donated to MTM. Also enjoy a super special secret guest and partake in musical theater open mic (please bring your music). Under 21 OK with parent/guardian – alcohol sales only 21+.

Vive La France!
2026-03-14 19:30 - 20:30 UTC | First Unitarian Society Madison, 900 University Bay Drive, Madison, WI, 53705, United States
In “Vive la France!” We embark on a journey in the larger legacy of French music, exploring more than two centuries of stylistic evolution: from the Baroque elegance of Lully and Rameau, through the Romantic sentiment of Massenet, to the lyrical modernism of Lili Boulanger. This program in the 250th year since the American Revolution also honors France’s long heritage as both an ally to the United States and a culture of rich artistry. Vive la France!

Singer/Songwriter Showcase with Bill Paige
2026-03-26 19:00 - 21:00 (America/Chicago) | Minocqua Brewing Company, 2927 East Washington Avenue, Madison, WI, 53704, United States
Bill Paige has had the opportunity to perform at a wide range of venues and events, including Summerfest (Local Artist Stage, 2nd Floor Stage, and Tiki Hut Stage from 2021–2025), Harley-Davidson (Oconomowoc), North Shore Country Club, Vino Etcetera, Steeltank Brewery, Maddy’s in Waukesha (where I’ve also hosted open mic nights), and many others throughout the metro area.
His sets feature crowd-friendly, well-known music spanning classic rock, Americana, and modern acoustic favorites. Artists he regularly cover include Tom Petty, Bruce Springsteen, Neil Young, Chris Stapleton, Jason Mraz, Johnny Cash, Noah Kahan, Jason Isbell, Caamp, The Lumineers, John Mellencamp, Bob Seger, Counting Crows, R.E.M., and more.

Singer/Songwriter Showcase with Dan Maguire
2026-03-26 19:00 - 21:00 (America/Chicago) | Minocqua Brewing Company, 2927 East Washington Avenue, Madison, WI, 53704, United States
We’ve got yet another new artist to ring in the New Year!
Dan Maguire is a singer-songwriter based in Rockford, IL, known for his distinct style that comes from a captivating blend of influences. Drawing inspiration from iconic artists like Tom Petty, Eric Clapton, and Stevie Ray Vaughan, Dan’s music features dynamic guitar work and introspective lyrics that resonate with listeners. His debut solo album, “Travelin’ Light,” released in 2023, won Album of the Year at the Rockford Area Music Industry Awards, showcasing his unique sound and storytelling ability.
Currently, Dan is working on his highly anticipated second album, “Magnolia,” set to release in 2026. He invites you to book him for your next event and experience his heartfelt performances that celebrate life through music. Don’t miss the chance to enjoy Dan’s soulful sound and engaging presence live!

Madison Bach Musicians presents J. S. Bach's Mass in B minor
2026-03-28 18:45 - 21:30, 2026-03-29 14:15 - 17:00 (America/Chicago) | Hamel Music Center, 740 University Ave, Madison, WI, 53706, United States
Timeless. Enduring. Monumental. Bach’s Mass in B minor is regarded as one of the supreme achievements of classical music. Audiences the world over, whatever their religious or spiritual beliefs, are moved by the work’s unforgettable power, emotion, technical brilliance, and boundless joy – a masterpiece that unifies and heals.
Internationally acclaimed conductor, Andrew Megill, from Northwestern University, will lead a 14-member vocal ensemble and Madison Bach Musicians’ period-instrument orchestra. As Bach intended, MBM will perform on gut-strung violins, Baroque oboes and oboes d’amore, Baroque bassoons, flutes, and trumpets — along with goatskin timpani, natural horn, and chamber organ.
Don’t miss the pre-concert lecture!
Learn more and purchase in-person and/or on-demand tickets at https://madisonbachmusicians.org/bachmass/

Piano Fondue's Monday Happy Hour Singalong
2026-04-06 17:00 - 2026-04-27 19:00 (America/Chicago) | Garver Feed Mill, 3241 Garver Green, Madison, WI, 53407, United States
Join us for Piano Fondue Singalong Happy Hour every Monday in April from 5–7 PM in the Garver Lounge!
Sing along to your favorite hits with live piano, enjoy a lively atmosphere, and kick off your week on a high note.
✨ Full dinner menu available
🍹 Drink specials all evening
🎤 All are welcome—no singing experience required!
Grab your friends, warm up those vocals, and make Mondays something to look forward to.

Pinney Saturday Music Series - presenting the Madison Brass Band
2026-05-02 11:00 - 12:00 (America/Chicago) | Pinney Library, 204 Cottage Grove Rd. , Madison, WI, 53716, United States
Pinney Library
Community Rooms A and B Combined
May 2, 2026 | 11am – 12pm
The Pinney Saturday Music Series welcomes performers on the first Saturday of the month! (Intended audience is adults, teens, and older children.)
The Madison Brass Band in its current form was created in 2002 and is one of three British-style brass bands in Wisconsin. The band has performed as a small group and full band all across Wisconsin and across the United States and play a variety of music including contest music, marches, hymns, ballads, pops, jazz, and more!
The series is generously sponsored by The Friends of Pinney Library.

Disney's Newsies: The Musical
2026-05-02 14:00 - 21:00, 2026-05-03 13:00 - 20:00, 2026-05-09 14:00 - 21:00, 2026-05-10 13:00 - 20:00, 2026-05-15 19:00 - 21:00, 2026-05-16 14:00 - 21:00, 2026-05-17 13:00 - 20:00 UTC | Starlight Theater at MYArts, 1055 E Mifflin St, Madison, WI, 53703, United States
When powerful New York newspaper publishers raise distribution prices at the newsboys’ expense, Jack Kelly rallies his ragtag group of “newsies” to fight back. Inspired by true events, this high-energy musical tells the story of young people discovering their voice and proving that courage and determination can change the world.
Recommended for ages 7+
Happens on the following Dates:
May 2, 2026, 2:00pm to 4:00pm Timezone: CDT
May 2, 2026, 7:00pm to 9:00pm Timezone: CDT
May 3, 2026, 1:00pm to 3:00pm Timezone: CDT
May 3, 2026, 6:00pm to 8:00pm Timezone: CDT
May 9, 2026, 2:00pm to 4:00pm Timezone: CDT
May 9, 2026, 7:00pm to 9:00pm Timezone: CDT
May 10, 2026, 1:00pm to 3:00pm Timezone: CDT
May 10, 2026, 6:00pm to 8:00pm Timezone: CDT
May 15, 2026, 7:00pm to 9:00pm Timezone: CDT
May 16, 2026, 2:00pm to 4:00pm Timezone: CDT
May 16, 2026, 7:00pm to 9:00pm Timezone: CDT
May 17, 2026, 1:00pm to 3:00pm Timezone: CDT
May 17, 2026, 6:00pm to 8:00pm Timezone: CDT

Madison Bach Musicians presents "Princely Architects"
2026-05-09 18:45 - 20:30, 2026-05-10 14:15 - 16:00 (America/Chicago) | First Unitarian Society Madison, 900 University Bay Drive, Madison, WI, 53705, United States
A fusion of music and architecture! Legendary architect Frank Lloyd Wright, Wisconsin’s own, loved the music of Beethoven and Bach and sought to emulate their compositions in his own designs. Madison Bach Musicians is honored to be part of the First Unitarian Society’s official celebration of the 75th anniversary of Wright’s 1951 architectural masterpiece — Unitarian Meeting House — by performing works of Beethoven and Bach in that very space. As Wright said, “Beethoven, and Bach too, were princely architects in my spiritual realm….[M]usic is a kind of sublimated mathematics. So is architecture….They require very much the same mind.” MBM Artistic Director Trevor Stephenson’s pre-concert lecture will draw parallels between Wright’s designs and the compositions featured in the concert program:
• J. S. Bach: Sonata for Violin and Continuo; French Suite No. 6 in E major for Harpsichord; Prelude & Allemande from Cello Suite No. 3 in C major; and Contrapunctus I & IX from The Art of Fugue
• Ludwig van Beethoven: Allegro con brio from String Quartet in F minor, Op. 95 (“Serioso”); and Piano Trio in E-flat major, Op. 1 No. 1
Seating in the Meeting House is limited. We suggest purchasing your tickets in advance. Purchase in-person and/or on-demand tickets at https://madisonbachmusicians.org/princely-architects/

Wisconsin Chamber Choir’s Spring Concert “Time Pieces”
2026-05-09 19:30 - 21:00 (America/Chicago) | Bethel Lutheran Church, 312 Wisconsin Avenue, Madison, WI, 53703, United States
Join the Wisconsin Chamber Choir for a concert of music about time in its many facets. Our program samples a broad range of poetic and musical interpretations of time, from 2000-year-old religious texts to music written just a few years ago that speaks to the times we live in, today. The wide breadth of repertoire ranges from British Romantic composers Edward Elgar and Samuel Coleridge-Taylor, to contemporary Americans Libby Larsen and David Lang, to popular music icons Cole Porter, Bob Dylan, and Dolly Parton.
As human beings, we interact with time in many different ways and on many different levels. The cyclical time of the passing seasons finds voice in Elgar’s passionate O Wild West Wind and Coleridge-Taylor’s luminous Song of Proserpine, both settings of poems by Shelly. One of the most resolute depictions of recurring time is David Lang’s Again (After Ecclesiastes), whose music is based on a mesmerizing, seemingly endless ostinato. Time as longing animates Argentinian composer Carlos Guastavino’s Ojos de tiempo (Eyes of Time) and Cole Porter’s Night and Day, and time as eternity bookends Three Herrick Songs by Boston composer William Cutter.
A special feature of the program is the world premiere of Ever by Minnesota composer, Michael Ferguson, a powerful setting of Shakespeare’s Sonnet XIX, Devouring Time, Blunt Thou the Lions Paws. Another recent work, of particular relevance today, is Minneapolis composer Libby Larsen’s Verdad/True, a 2019 composition that uses texts by Chilean poet Gabriela Mistral to document the pain of migrants separated from their families, who long for the time when they will be reunited.
Bob Dylan’s The Times They Are a-Changin’ hit a nerve in 1964, and Adam Podd’s transcendent arrangement for choir and piano from 2021 testifies to the original song’s continuing relevance. The concert concludes with Dolly Parton’s upbeat anthem about the travails of working 9 to 5.
Tickets are $25 for adults / $5 students, available in advance from www.wisconsinchamberchoir.org or at the door. Discounted tickets are available for children, students, and patrons experiencing financial hardship.
Founded in 1998, the Wisconsin Chamber Choir has established a reputation for excellence in the performance of oratorios by Bach, Handel, Mozart, and Brahms; a cappella works from various centuries; and world premieres. WCC Artistic Director Robert Gehrenbeck, a Professor of Music at UW-Whitewater, has been hailed by critics for his vibrant and emotionally compelling interpretations of a wide variety of choral music. Under his leadership the WCC has presented major works with orchestra as well as innovative programs of rarely heard music by composers from a wide variety of eras, nationalities, and cultures.

Promenade: A Musical Walk Through Taliesin
2026-05-30 18:30 - 21:00 (America/Chicago) | Frank Lloyd Wright Visitor Center, 5607 County Rd, Spring Green8, WI, 53588, United States
Join Ensemble Dal Niente at Frank Lloyd Wright’s Taliesin in Spring Green for a unique experience that explores the relationship between music, architecture, and nature. This musical promenade will take guests through multiple spaces within Wright’s main residence where musicians will offer site-specific instrumental improvisations – spontaneous musical dialogues that respond directly to each room’s acoustics, design, and atmosphere. Guests will move from space to space, experiencing a deeply immersive journey that blends community, architecture, and music. The evening will conclude with a wine and cheese artist reception, inviting reflection and conversation between audience members and the ensemble about the shared experience and creative process.

Haydn's Creation
2026-05-30 19:30 - 20:30 UTC | McKinley Performing Arts Center, 2219 Monroe Street, Madison, 53711, United States
Experience the awe and majesty of Joseph Haydn’s oratorio The Creation. Festival Choir of Madison presents a choral masterpiece that brings the Genesis story to life in a new concert version for chamber orchestra, soloists and choir.

Ensemble Dal Niente in Concert and Discussion: Hillside Theater at Taliesin
2026-05-31 13:30 - 15:30 (America/Chicago) | Hillside Theater, Taliesin, Spring Green, 5481 County Road C, Spring Green, WI, 53588, United States
Join us for a special Sunday afternoon concert featuring Ensemble Dal Niente in the historic Hillside Theater at Taliesin. Featuring works by works by Igor Santos, Misato Mochizuki, Fausto Romitelli, and more, this performance offers an opportunity to experience the ensemble’s distinctive and boundary-pushing musical voice within one of Frank Lloyd Wright’s most acoustically and architecturally compelling spaces. Following the concert, an open conversation will explore the intersections of music and architecture—structure, rhythm, improvisation, and space. Audience members are invited to engage with the panel through questions, reflections, and observations, making this an interactive and thoughtful afternoon of art and dialogue.

A Day at Taliesin 2026
2026-06-06 12:00 - 16:00 (America/Chicago) | Hillside School, 6604 State Highway 23 Trunk, Spring Green, WI, 53588, United States
Immerse yourself in the world of Frank Lloyd Wright’s Spring Green estate with a celebration of all things that make Taliesin special! Enjoy a wide variety of family-friendly activities including an independent walking tour and scavenger hunt, guided Hillside and Kitchen Garden tours, crafts and activities, and entertainment in Hillside Theater. Food for purchase from Riverview Terrace Cafe or bring your own picnic lunch. Tours of the Taliesin home are not included; option to purchase discounted Guided and Self-Paced House Tours for June 6 with registration. Space is limited, pre-registration is highly recommended!

Gilda's Backyard BBQ
2026-06-11 17:30 - 20:30 (America/Chicago) | Gilda’s Club Madison, 7907 UW Health Court, Middleton, 53562, United States
Let’s Ignite Hope Together!
Thursday, June 11, 2026 | 5:30 pm – 8:30 pm
Gilda’s Club Wisconsin Backyard | 7907 UW Health Ct, Middleton, WI
Gather in Gilda’s backyard for an adult evening featuring lip-smacking BBQ fare provided by Blue Plate Catering, thirst-quenching adult beverages provided by Bailey’s Run Vineyard and The Lone Girl Brewing Company, and live music by Universal Sound.
Your support of Gilda’s Backyard BBQ directly supports Gilda’s Club Wisconsin’s mission to provide free emotional support, community, and hope for individuals and families touched by cancer in our community. Funds raised help sustain vital programs, such as support groups, healthy living programs, and educational programs that offer comfort, connection, and hope at every stage of the cancer journey.
Learn more about our programs and how your support makes a difference by visiting gildasclubwi.org.
Tickets are $75 each or $280 for four. We hope you will join us!
Interested in sponsoring Gilda’s Backyard BBQ? Learn more about sponsorships and special incentives in 2026 here. Contact Taylor Retondo, Events Director, at taylor@gildasclubwi.org to learn more.
Please Note: This is a 21+ (years of age) adult event. Per the City of Middleton, you must show your photo ID (regardless of your age) and receive a wristband if you will be consuming adult beverages.
