Sponsored Content

5 world-renowned performers headline Secrest Artists Series

September signals the start of a brand-new performance season at Wake Forest University.

Sponsored by
Images from the artists in the 2025-25 Secrest Series.

Events often include pre-concert talks or residency activities.

Photos courtesy Wake Forest University, credit DarioAcosta-Horiz, Petra Hajska, and Lorenzo Di Nozzi

The Secrest Artists Series returns this September with a dynamic 2025-26 lineup, bringing internationally acclaimed artists to the halls of Wake Forest University.

Free for students, faculty, and staff, and available to the public at modest prices, these powerful performances are part cultural education, part awe-inspiring entertainment.

🌍 Season opener: Soweto Gospel Choir

The multi-Grammy® and Emmy Award®-winning Soweto Gospel Choir will open with their “PEACE” tour on Thursday, September 25, at 7:30 p.m.

This joyful, family-friendly program blends South African freedom songs and traditional spirituals with the uplifting music of Aretha Franklin, Harry Belafonte, Peter Gabriel, Kate Bush, Leon Cohen, and so many more.

🎼 Full performance schedule

Christian McBride & Brad Mehldau | Tuesday, Oct. 21, 2025 | Brendle Recital Hall

  • Two of the most respected artists in contemporary jazz bring sophistication and swing to this collaborative evening.

Raphaël Feuillâtre | Thursday, Nov. 13, 2025 | Brendle Recital Hall

  • The new face of classical guitar: Recently ranked 2nd among the world’s most listened-to classical music artists on Apple Classical.

J’Nai Bridges | Thursday, Feb. 5, 2026 | Brendle Recital Hall

  • A two-time Grammy® Award-winning artist, hailed by the New York Times as a “plush-voiced mezzo-soprano.”

Pavel Haas Quartet | Thursday, Mar. 19, 2026 | Brendle Recital Hall

  • One of the world’s foremost chamber ensembles, combining richness, rapport, and infectious passion.

🎟️ Pick your tix

Community tickets range from $10 to $30, depending on your chosen performance.

Ready to be moved?

Start choosing your series

More from WStoday
Plan your year with the unique experiences the Twin City has to offer.
The historic building turns into a restaurant.
From lifting weights, indoor rock climbing, personal training, dance fitness, boxing classes, and martial arts programs — we’ve rounded up 20+ gyms and fitness offerings around the Twin City.
These bakeries get a rise out of the Twin City.
Bookmark this guide for a curated list of events taking place each month that we’re most looking forward to.
For the new year, we’re asking readers to submit their top questions about the Twin City for us to answer.
You all love local insights and timely updates that make WStoday a trusted part of your daily routine.
Big changes are coming to the Twin City, and you won’t want to miss this.
Familiarize yourself with the dos and don’ts of holiday recycling in the Twin City.
Have friends or family in town this year? We’re here to help plan their visit.