by Jim Collar
Shorts, T-shirts, and baseball caps are typically frowned-upon fashion choices for those enjoying an evening with the symphony. But then again, few orchestral performances feature shredding guitars or the distinctive thud of a well-charged Bratzooka.
It’s a concept that Beethoven wouldn’t have recognized, but I can’t help but think he would have approved.
The Fox Valley Symphony Orchestra will return to Fox Cities Stadium on Saturday, July 26 for “Symphony Under the Stars,” an annual concert event that defies expectations in all the best ways. From the ballpark atmosphere to the rock and roll arrangements, it’s become a great Fox Valley tradition and one of the most awaited concerts of our summer season.
Accessibility is the most important feature. There are no tickets, and you can also park the car for free. But do arrive well in advance of the 7:30 p.m. start time if you hope to get the best seats.
Jamie LaFreniere, executive director of the orchestra, said a night at the symphony may not always be feasible for many in the community. But thanks to the generous support of sponsors including Network Health and Community First Credit Union, an evening of masterful musical performances is open for everyone to enjoy.
“You can bring your family of six, your office of 10 or your friend group of 20,” she said. “We really want people to have a great night, and this event is really about bringing the community together.”
LaFreniere, who is also editor in chief at “Appleton Monthly,” said the concert is just as much a highlight of the season among the orchestra’s 70 or so musicians.
The evening begins with performances from the MacDowell Male Chorus and the Fox Valleyaires. The orchestra starts their program with traditional symphonic music before turning to, shall we say, more familiar compositions. Accompanied by Russ & the Renegades, FVSO’s self-created house rock band, the orchestra shows that they, too, have a wilder side with symphonic arrangements of rock and pop favorites.
At a prior performance, a symphony violinist made the bold transformation into country fiddle player during a rendition of “The Devil Went Down to Georgia.” The crowd went wild for a stunning performance of Prince’s “Purple Rain.”
“Last year, we did Metallica’s ‘Enter Sandman,’ and no one had that on their bingo cards,” LaFreniere said. “We like to tear down the stereotypes.”
It’s not a big rock and roll concert without the pyrotechnics. As the music concludes, a stunning fireworks show provides the exclamation point to an incredible evening.
The annual concert has given many people an alluring introduction to our orchestra and a level of talent that’s not often found in cities of our size. For regular patrons, the stadium concert has offered a fun and different kind of experience that showcases the versatility of its musicians.
All who attend can expect some pleasant surprises. The richness of orchestral instruments brings a new and exciting quality to contemporary music – and even to the songs that come up most frequently on our playlists.
“When you add that element, you’re adding so many layers,” LaFreniere said. “It’s like experiencing your favorite song again for the first time.”
This article was originally published in the July 2025 issue of Appleton Monthly Magazine.
