Specific Need

The SEK Symphony Orchestra relies on ongoing financial support to sustain its operations and mission. Being a mixed ensemble comprised of students, faculty, and community members, we frequently enlist the help of outside professional musicians to fill any gaps we may need and thus enrich the experience for our audiences. We also incur in music purchase or rental costs.

Mission

With a proud legacy spanning 111 years, our orchestra remains committed to its mission of fostering artistic excellence and community engagement. The Friends of the SEK Symphony was established to serve as a channel for community support of, and participation in, the life of the Southeast Kansas Symphony at Pittsburg State University, to aid in the pursuit of fostering a love for orchestral music and providing opportunities for all to experience the transformative magic of live symphonic performances.

Profile

Founded in 1915 by Walter McCray, the man for whom the music building at Pittsburg State University would be named, the Southeast Kansas Symphony at Pittsburg State University still is going strong 110 years later. With four major performances each academic year, our goal is to be an integral part of the culture of Southeast Kansas. We are Celebrating the 110 years of the SEK Symphony with A Season to Dance!

2026-2027 SEASON

The Southeast Kansas Symphony at Pittsburg State University has announced its 2026-27 season, “Bringing Our Stories to Life.”

Audiences can expect diverse concert experiences under the direction of Assistant Professor Ramiro Miranda, symphony conductor.

Early bird ticket sales will begin on Monday, Aug. 24. Purchasing in advance saves $2 per ticket.

New this year: the University Ticket Office has moved to Legacy 1903 at 306 N. Broadway in Pittsburg, where tickets can be purchased in person from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday. Drive-through and walk-in service will be available.

Ticket also may be purchased online at pittstate.edu/tickets or on the phone by calling 620-235-4796.

Based on availability, tickets also will be sold at the door starting an hour in advance.

Pitt State Faculty Showcase
Sunday, Oct.11 · 3 p.m. · Bicknell Family Center for the Arts

Enjoy an afternoon of brilliance as Music Department faculty step into the spotlight, sharing their artistry through captivating performances. Experience the passion, dedication, and musicianship of seasoned professionals and masters of their craft.

Celebrating Pittsburg 150
Sunday, Nov. 15 · 3 p.m. · Bicknell Family Center for the Arts

Free!

The community's story will take center stage. As Pittsburg marks its 150th anniversary, this special concert will feature a newly commissioned work by professors John Ross (music) and Laura Washburn (poem), performed in collaboration with the university’s Wind Ensemble, Choirs, and the SEK Symphony.

Holiday Extravaganza: SEKSO + J3 = OMG2
Thursday, Dec. 3 · 7 p.m. · Bicknell Family Center for the Arts

The SEK Symphony and J3 Band come together for a high-energy collaboration to celebrate the season featuring festive favorites, electrifying rhythms, and an evening that bridges genres, generations, and musical traditions.

Opera: The Pirates of Penzance
Feb. 5 and Feb. 7, 2027 · Bicknell Family Center for the Arts

Adventure awaits on the high seas! Join the SEK Symphony and the Pitt State Opera Workshop for Gilbert & Sullivan's comic masterpiece, filled with wit, adventure, charm, and irresistible melodies.

Rising Stars
Sunday, April 4, 2027 · 3 p.m. · Bicknell Family Center for the Arts

Be among the first to hear tomorrow's great artists as outstanding winners of the Concerto/Aria Competition take the stage. Their remarkable talent, dedication, and artistry promise an inspiring afternoon of music.

Past and Future with Dr. Selim Giray
Sunday, May 2, 2027 · 3 p.m. · Bicknell Family Center for the Arts

The season concludes by honoring the past and looking toward the future. Former conductor Dr. Selim Giray returns to lead the SEK Symphony, with Assistant Professor Ramiro Miranda as soloist in the Daniel Luzko Violin Concerto, for an unforgettable finale filled with passion and artistry.

Tickets

At the door: