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5 world-renowned performers headline Secrest Artists Series

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

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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

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