This week, I went to Hancher again to watch the Minnesota Orchestra!

On November 15, 2025, the Minnesota Orchestra performed Tōru TAKEMITSU: Night Signal (from Signals from Heaven), Karol SZYMANOWSKI: Violin Concerto No. 1 , and Hector BERLIOZ: Symphonie fantastique. As someone who grew up in the orchestra world, it was a phenomenal performance. The music itself was radiating in the hall, and the auditorium was doing its magic of resonating sound.

My roommate and I got tickets through Hawkeyes for Hancher, which is offered to students at the beginning of the year for about two days. Through the program, we got our tickets for $5, and sat in the student section (which was very obvious when we sat down, tons of students haha). In total, we got four tickets for four different events, so we’re looking forward to more concerts.

The Minnesota Orchestra has performed in Iowa City since 1909, making the connection between the city and orchestra very strong, which was obvious when the conductors/speakers were speaking, and while the musicians were performing. This was their first performance back in Iowa City in 43 years, so it was also amazing to be there for the first performance in a while. It was super easy to get to our seats and navigate as well. At each entrance, there’s a student usher to help you find your seat, and once you’re there, it’s super easy to navigate. Hancher itself is amazing to be in, and being in the main auditorium is always breathtaking. I will always recommend a concert at Hancher for its easy atmosphere, amazing views, and breathtaking events.

Till next time!

Harper