Pop Up Orchestra Festival
August 4-9, 2026
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.
Guitar for Teens
Tuesday August 4th, 3pm
Led by GSO Musician, Tony Snyder
Grove Youth Wellness Hub,
737 Woolwich St.
The Grove Hub is the perfect setting for an informal and inspiring workshop for aspiring guitarists, led by GSO musician Tony Snyder.
Whether you're just starting out or looking to refine your skills, this engaging session will offer valuable tips, techniques, and insights into the world of guitar playing.
It's a fantastic opportunity for young musicians to connect with others who share their passion, and make music in a supportive and creative environment.
So grab your guitar and bring your enthusiasm!
Symphony Under the Stars
Wednesday August 5, 8:45pm
Riverside Park Bandshell
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.
Please bring a lawn-chair or blanket.
In the event of poor weather, the concert will be rescheduled to August 6th at 8:45pm.
Weather and parking updates will be posted on this page!
Register now for tickets to this free GSO Pop Up Orchestra Event!
Classics Undercover
A String Ensemble Concert and Instrument Petting Zoo
Thursday August 6,11am
Hillsburgh Branch of the Wellington County Library
9 Station street, Hillsburgh
Gather the whole family for a fun-filled concert spotlighting those sneaky classical tunes you've unknowingly adored from blockbuster movies, epic video games, and even those catchy app jingles! After the 30-minute performance, we will be holding an instrument petting zoo where you get to try violins, violas and cellos up-close!
Cartoons and Classics
Friday August 7, 11:15am
Shelldale Centre Auditorium
20 Shelldale Cres.
Get ready for a whimsical ‘pop up’ concert by an ensemble from the Guelph Symphony Orchestra! They'll be dishing out melodies used to bring your beloved cartoon characters to life, including the ever-adorable Bluey!
African Drumming
Friday August 7,noon
Shelldale Centre Auditorium
20 Shelldale Cres
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
By Moonlight
Saturday August 8, 9pm
Private Garden
South End
Audiences will experience a one-of-a- kind concert performed in a magical illuminated garden!
Featuring music inspired
by the nature, from Vivaldi’s Four Seasons to Debussy’s Clair de Lune .
Seating is limited.
Tickets are $25 and available via the link provided .
Petites Etoiles ("Little Stars")
Sunday August 9, 2pm
Art Gallery of Guelph
358 Gordon St
The Pop Up Orchestra Festival will close with a delightful program of soothing chamber music in the beautiful Art Gallery of Guelph. Join us as we explore the magical sounds created by this special combination of instruments.
Madison Deppe, Flute
Catherine Molina, Viola
Nicole Chang, Harp
Tickets are $10 and available through the link below