SALISBURY — Let the music begin.

The Salisbury Symphony’s first concert of the season, entitled “Witches and Wizards & The Music of Harry Potter,” is scheduled for Oct. 19 at 7:30 p.m. with Ian Passmore serving as the guest conductor.

Due to a scheduling conflict, this concert will be held at the Stanly County Agri-Civic Center, 26032 Newt Road, #B, Albemarle. 

Stephanie Potter, interim marketing chair, said this is a huge production with 65 musicians, a harp and full percussion and this location provided a stage large enough to accommodate it all.

Dressed as a wizard, Gary Thornburg will assume the role of narrator for the interactive production, asking questions of the audience.

“We are very excited about this new production to kick off the 2024/2025 season,” said John Cowan, chair of the marketing committee for the symphony. “It is unlike any concert that we’ve ever performed as it incorporates storytelling, interaction with the audience, costumes and fun for all ages”

Adding to the fun of the event, several features will be a part of the evening including children and youth, 16 and younger, who dress up, will be admitted free.

“So we are strongly encouraging them to dress up” to match the production theme, said Potter.

Wands will also be given out, she said. The first 100 children who attend the concert and do not have wands, will receive one.

Plus, as is popular in Harry Potter, cups of butter beer will be available as they will be selling it during the evening.

Tickets for the concert may be purchased by going online to salisburysymphony.org or by getting them at the door. Cost is $15 for adults, $13 for seniors, $5 for 21 and younger, but free if dressed up as noted previously.

The symphony will be presenting its next concert Nov. 23 at Varick Auditorium on the Livingstone College campus and is titled “Postcards Across America.”