Highland Echoes: A Musical Celebration of Celtic and English Traditions

Sunday, July 13th, 2025

4:00 PM

Union High School Auditorium

2 Champions Ave, Big Stone Gap, VA

Free admission!

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The Winds of the Mountain Empire, a 60-member professional wind ensemble made up of outstanding musicians and music educators from the region, invites the community to a free summer concert on Sunday, July 13 at 4:00 p.m. in the auditorium of Union High School.

 

Now in its nineteenth season, the ensemble presents Highland Echoes: A Musical Celebration of Celtic and English Traditions. This stirring program includes evocative works by Malcolm Arnold (Four Scottish Dances), Percy Grainger (Irish Tune from County Derry, Shepherd’s Hey), Ralph Vaughan Williams (English Folk Song Suite), Bill Whelan (Riverdance), John Williams (Far and Away), and a vibrant original composition by the ensemble’s conductor, Donald Sorah, titled Radiant Revelry.

 

With sweeping melodies, toe-tapping rhythms, and rich cultural connections between the music of Scotland, Ireland, and Appalachia, this concert promises something for everyone—whether you’re a classical music lover, a fan of Celtic traditions, or just looking for an inspiring way to spend a Sunday afternoon.

 

Founded in 2006 by Dr. Donald Sorah, the Winds of the Mountain Empire unites musicians each summer from across southwest Virginia, northeast Tennessee, and southeast Kentucky for a weekend of professional development, fellowship, and performance.

 

Admission is free, and all are welcome.​

 

For more information, email Winds of the Mountain Empire at windsme@comcast.net or find Winds of the Mountain Empire on Facebook.