FIM Flint School of Performing Arts Oboe Instructor Chris Wheeler hopes you will join him Friday, November 17, at MacArthur Recital Hall for a truly unique and enchanting experience. Chris is planning to take the audience on a journey back in time through the rich sounds of the Baroque era and before.

Wheeler’s faculty concert promises to be a treat for the eyes and ears. The stage will be adorned with hundreds of candles, casting a warm and intimate glow on the evening. Wheeler himself will be dressed in authentic Baroque attire, setting the stage for an evening of captivating music.

“I’ll be performing alongside another oboist and a harpsichordist,” explains Wheeler, adding, “The repertoire for this concert required quite a bit of research and arrangement because the oboe didn’t exist until the 1600s, at the start of the Baroque period.”

Get ready to be transported back in time as Wheeler plays a 900-year-old Gregorian Chant on oboe, a hauntingly beautiful and rare experience. He’ll also treat the audience to selections from a Handel opera set in medieval times, offering a unique opportunity to hear music from this era.

Wheeler’s passion for early music shines through. His enthusiasm is contagious, promising an evening that is far from stuffy or boring.

“I absolutely love early music.”

Davin Pierson Torre, FSPA Director, shares in the excitement, noting that music of the Baroque period and before holds a special place in her heart as a former string player.

“The oboe’s interpretation of this timeless music adds an extra layer of intrigue to the concert.

What Chris is doing is important,” Torre emphasizes. “We’re shifting toward creating experiences rather than traditional solo or chamber music recitals. Each concert is a unique and immersive journey, sometimes enhanced with projection and special lighting.”

Chris Wheeler’s goal for the evening is simple: “I’m just going to have fun with it, and I hope the audience will too.”

With an hour of beautiful music in an extraordinary, candlelit atmosphere, this promises to be an unforgettable experience. After the concert, patrons are invited to the lobby for punch and cookies, where they can discuss and savor the magic of the evening. Don’t miss this rare opportunity to step back in time and immerse yourself in the timeless allure of the Baroque music and the music that came before.

New This Year!
Register Once.

Register once and receive a free pass for your entire household for all MacArthur Recital Hall performances for FIM 2023- 24 Season. This includes FSPA & FSO Chamber Series -Music on the Lawn and the FSPA Faculty Concert Series.

Please note seating is limited in MacArthur Recital Hall. This pass does not guarantee a seat. Please arrive early as seating is available on a first come, first served basis. Overflow seating is provided to view the concert live stream.

Free to attend. Register today