GSO Pop Up Orchestra Concert and Event Schedule
August 5th-10th 2025
For six days in August, GSO will present a series of free (or nominally priced) , 45-minute concerts, in imaginative, unexpected, and less formal settings throughout the city, designed to engage, entertain and be interactive.
“The Lion and the Mouse”
Saturday August 9, 11am
The Steggles’ Garden
In the African Serengeti, Enyi, a timid mouse, accidentally disturbs Aza the lion. In an act of kindness, the lion allows the mouse to escape, never imagining that this tiny creature would later save his life! The musical score is inspired by the music of Clara Schumann and Fanny Mendelssohn.
“From Elgar to Elvis’
Sunday August 10, 1:30pm & 3pm
Join us for an unforgettable journey through
melodies that have captured hearts for decades. Whether it’s the sweeping emotion of Elgar’s compositions or the timeless charisma of Elvis’s hits, each piece
is sure to evoke nostalgia and joy.
”IYKYK”
Tuesday August 5, 3pm
Grove Youth Wellness Hub, 737 Woolwich St.
A concert for teens featuring the hidden classical music that you may already love and recognize from hearing it in movies, video games and even as background tracks in popular apps. If you know, you know!
No ticket is required for this free event
Symphony Under the Stars II
Wednesday August 6, 8:45pm
VENUE CHANGE! Due to unexpected infrastructure repairs needed at Yorklands Green Hub,
Symphony Under the Stars is now happening at the Riverside Park Bandshell in Guelph on Wed. Aug 6 @ 8:45PM 🌌🎻
(Rain date: Thurs., Aug 7)
Enjoy an evening of live music by @GuelphSymphony + stargazing with Ten Telescopes
Attendees will have the opportunity to enjoy stargazing using 3D printed telescopes, under the guidance of Bryan Delodder of Ten Telescopes. Join us in celebrating the marvels of the universe with familiar melodies from Star Wars, The Planets, and Debussy’s Clair de Lune. https://www.tentelescopes.com
Please bring a lawn-chair or blanket.
In the event of poor weather, the concert will be rescheduled to August 7th at 8:45pm.
Weather and parking updates will be posted on this page!
“Let’s Dance”
Friday August 8, 11am
Shelldale Centre Auditorium,
20 Shelldale Crescent
From Calypso to Classics, this high-energy concert will have everyone dancing in their seats! With dance artist and City of Guelph Artist in Residence, Kween!
“African Drumming”
Friday August 8, 11:45am
Shelldale Centre Auditorium,
20 Shelldale Crescent
In this free interactive workshop participants will learn some basic drumming techniques and patterns, play rhythm games, learn to listen to each other and find the sense of rhythm within. Drumming together is a great way to build community! Everyone has a sense of rhythm and everyone is welcome. No experience necessary. Drums will be provided.
Bring a sense of curiosity and fun!
Led by GSO musician, Alison Feuerwerker
“Moonlight Serenade”
Friday August 8, 9pm
South End
Audiences will experience a one-of-a-kind concert performed in a beautifully illuminated garden! Featuring music inspired by the
nature, from Vivaldi’s Four Seasons to Debussy’s Clair de Lune . Seating is limited.
Tickets are $20 and available at the link below.
As part of our Pop Up Orchestra Festival members of GSO will also be performing for staff, residents and their families at Hopewell Children’s homes and at the Elliot Community.
Patrons are welcome to make a donation to the orchestra to support this important community outreach. Here is the link to our donation page.
