Description

Saturday, October 10, 2026 @ 7:30 PM

Sunday, October 11, 2026 @ 4:00 PM

At Hinkley High School in Aurora

Celebrate Howard Shore's music for Lord of the Rings on its 25th Anniversary with a concert spanning the entire trilogy and some of the music that inspired it.

Note: This concert will only feature the music, not any footage, from Lord of the Rings.

• Kids & students FREE

• Seniors and military half-price

• No dress code

• Plenty of free parking

You will experience: 

• Music from Howard Shore's incredible scores for "The Hobbit," "The Fellowship of the Ring," "The Two Towers," and "The Return of the King."

• A treat from New Zealand: "In the Lair of the Cave Weta," a musical depiction of the world's largest insect, by composer Leonie Holmes.

• Renowned violinist Frangel Lopez-Ceseña performing two violin solos of music representing the hobbits and the elves: Vaughan Williams' "The Lark Ascending" and Arvo Pärt's "Fratres."

• Join our conductor Jeremy 30 minutes prior to each performance for a pre-concert talk on the music of the concert and how Howard Shore created a masterpiece in his score for Lord of the Rings.

Show off your best Lord of the Rings (or other) costumes and compete in our costume contest to win free tickets for a year!
(Note: no weapons, costume or otherwise, allowed in the venue)

What people are saying about the ASO:

• "It was a very enjoyable event, even for someone who does not understand music very well. Two hours and twenty dollars so well spent."

• "We’ve been attending ASO Concerts for a few years now. We thoroughly enjoy each production! Great music and fun!! We enjoy Jeremy’s enthusiasm as he conducts. We highly recommend the ASO & are glad it’s part of our community!!"

• "We always feel relaxed, happy, and more connected after a concert. Every performance we have attended as season ticket holders has been excellent."

• "We ALWAYS look forward to Aurora Symphony. My son absolutely loves the Aurora Symphony! We all do."

Frequently Asked Questions

• What should I wear? Come as you are! There's no dress code. Most people wear business casual, but jeans and a t-shirt are perfectly acceptable. We are not a stuffy orchestra!

• Do I need to know a lot about classical music to have a good time? New to classical concerts? Don't worry! Our conductor provides brief, friendly introductions to the concert and to each piece. Arrive early to attend his free pre-concert talk for an extra-special time.

• How long is the concert? Approximately 2 hours including one 20-minute intermission.

• Is there parking? Plenty of free parking is available.

• When should we arrive? Most people arrive 30-40 minutes before the concert to get great seats and enjoy our conductor's pre-concert talk (30 minutes before the performance).

• Are the concessions? There are no concessions or alcohol at the concert, but there are restaurants nearby for before or after. Water fountains are available.

• Are concerts good for kids? The ASO prides itself on being family friendly! While we understand that young kids are full of energy, we ask that all audience members be respectful of others' experiences and that children are not permitted to run around the auditorium before, during, or after the performance.

Date & Time

Oct 10 - 11, 2026

Venue Details

Hinkley High School

Aurora Symphony Orchestra