“A River Runs Through It” to Feature Live Performance and Projected Artwork at Wesley United Methodist Church

MUSCATINE, Iowa — This Saturday, April 12, the Muscatine Symphony Orchestra invites the community to experience the power of music and art flowing together in “A River Runs Through It”, a concert inspired by the might and majesty of the river that defines our town.

The performance begins at 7:00 p.m. at Wesley United Methodist Church. In a unique collaboration with the Muscatine Art Center, the Symphony will present a visual and auditory journey, with hundreds of images from the Mississippi River Collection projected above the orchestra as they perform.

“This concert is really about connecting our community’s geography to global musical storytelling,” said Erica Hancock, MSO Board Member. “The Mississippi River is central to our identity, and through this concert, we’re celebrating that heritage in a new and immersive way.”

Concert Program Highlights

The musical lineup evokes rivers from across the globe, weaving together natural landscapes, local pride, and legendary tales:

• Smetana’s The Moldau – A vivid tone poem capturing the journey of a Czech river through forests, villages, and rapids to the city of Prague. Written while the composer was completely deaf, the piece is a masterpiece of musical imagination.
• Strauss’ The Blue Danube – Possibly the most recognizable waltz in history, this composition paints elegance and motion, gliding like dancers across a mirrored river.
• Schumann’s Symphony No. 3 “Rhenish” – Inspired by the Rhine River and Cologne Cathedral, the symphony includes five movements of joy, ceremony, and lyrical beauty.
• Wagner’s Siegfried’s Rhine Journey – A sweeping orchestral interlude from Götterdämmerung, this piece follows the heroic Siegfried on his fateful journey along the Rhine.

Art and Music, Flowing Together

In addition to the music, audiences will be treated to a visual display of the Mississippi River Collection—a highlight of the Muscatine Art Center’s permanent collection. Projected throughout the performance, the images will echo the themes and emotions of each musical work, offering a rare blend of classical music and fine art.

Before the main concert, the public is also invited to a free prelude performance by local artist Bill Anson & Co., taking place from 4:00 to 5:30 p.m. at the Muscatine Art Center. Featuring original songs and nostalgic favorites from the 1930s and ‘40s, the pre-show event sets the tone for an evening of local culture and connection.

Tickets and Info

Tickets are available at the door or in advance at muscatinesymphony.org. Seating is general admission.