Lee University announces 34th season of Presidential Concert Series

From the Chattanoogan: Lee University's Presidential Concert Series, presented by Bradley Medical Center, will celebrate its 34th season with five performances featuring an eclectic lineup of acclaimed artists and ensembles, bringing classical, jazz, traditional Irish, vocal and contemporary music to the Cleveland community.

"This season celebrates the remarkable breadth of today's musical world," said Dr. Vanessa Wei, director of Lee's Presidential Concert Series. "From the wit and creativity of The Queen's Cartoonists to the artistry of pianist Zitong Wang, the expressive beauty of mezzo-soprano Andrea Dismukes, the internationally acclaimed Verona Quartet, and the vibrant traditions of Goitse, each performance offers a unique opportunity to experience music that inspires, connects, and enriches our community."

The 2026-27 season will open Tuesday, Sept. 29, with The Queen's Cartoonists. Based in Queens, New York, the six-member ensemble combines virtuosic musicianship, comedy, and synchronized performances to bring more than 100 years of animation to life. The group recreates beloved cartoon soundtracks while blending jazz, classical music, and animated film and has performed at venues including the Blue Note Jazz Club and Konzerthaus Berlin and opened for the New York Philharmonic.

On Thursday, Oct. 29, the series will feature pianist Zitong Wang, a bronze medalist at the 19th International Fryderyk Chopin Piano Competition and recipient of the Krystian Zimerman Award for Best Performance of a Sonata. Ms. Wang has performed at renowned venues around the world and with major orchestras including The Philadelphia Orchestra and The Cleveland Orchestra. A graduate of the Curtis Institute of Music, she is currently pursuing graduate studies at the New England Conservatory with pianist Dang Thai Son.

The series will resume Thursday, Jan. 14, with Andrea Dismukes & Friends. Dr. Dismukes returns to Lee, where she served for more than 30 years as a professor of voice and held numerous leadership roles, including chair of the Department of Vocal Music and Performance Studies and director of Ladies of Lee. An acclaimed performer and educator, she has performed internationally across a wide range of genres, including art song, musical theater, gospel, blues, and jazz. She currently serves as assistant professor of voice at UTC.

On Tuesday, Feb. 9, the series will welcome the Verona Quartet, hailed by The New York Times as an "outstanding ensemble" and recognized as one of the premier string quartets of its generation. Recipients of the 2020 Chamber Music America Cleveland Quartet Award and the Fischoff National Chamber Music Association's 2025 Educator Award, the quartet is known for expressive playing and imaginative programming that brings fresh perspectives to traditional chamber music through interdisciplinary collaborations.

Closing the season on Tuesday, March 23, will be Goitse, one of Ireland's most celebrated traditional ensembles. Returning to Lee following a popular 2024 performance, the multi-award-winning quintet is celebrating 15 years of touring worldwide. Formed at Limerick's Irish World Academy, Goitse blends original compositions with traditional Irish music, creating energetic performances marked by driving rhythms, expressive instrumentation, and captivating vocals.

The 2026-27 Presidential Concert Series is presented by Bradley Medical Center, which partners with Lee University to support the series and its programming throughout the season.

"Bradley Medical Center is proud to partner with Lee University and support the Presidential Concert Series because we believe in the value of bringing exceptional arts and cultural experiences to our community," said Lisa Lovelace, president and CEO of Bradley Medical Center. "This series gives our region the opportunity to experience outstanding artists right here in Cleveland, and we are pleased to support a series that enriches the lives of those who live, work, and learn here."

All concerts will begin at 7:30 p.m. Tickets are $15 for adults and $5 for students, seniors, and children. Tickets may be purchased at the Lee University Box Office in the Dixon Center or by calling (423) 614-8343 beginning one week before each event, between 3 and 6 p.m. Online tickets will be available through Eventbrite beginning one month before each event.

"Whether you are a longtime supporter of the series or attending for the first time, we look forward to welcoming you throughout the season," said Dr. Wei.

For more information about the Presidential Concert Series, visit leeuniversity.edu/academics/music/pcs or call the School of Music at (423) 614-8240.