US Upcoming

Sue Nelson Festival

Name: Sue Nelson Festival
Start: 2026-10-04
End: 2026-10-04
Location: Pendleton

The Sue Nelson Festival is an annual musical tribute in Pendleton, Oregon, dedicated to the memory of a prominent local pianist and organist. The event supports the Oregon East Symphony through a showcase of diverse musical traditions and instrumental performances.

Date: Oct 4, 2026
Location: Pendleton
Status: Upcoming

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Event summary

Highlights

Unique fusion of Western pipe organ with traditional Japanese instruments
Performances by organist Bill Crane and the duo Také to Ito
Benefit event for the Dr. George and Sue Nelson Memorial Endowment Fund
Diverse repertoire ranging from 17th-century works to John Coltrane arrangements

Established in 2023, the festival honors the legacy of Sue Nelson, a charter member of the Oregon East Symphony and long-time church accompanist. The event aims to provide the public with free access to music while raising funds for the Dr. George and Sue Nelson Memorial Endowment Fund. Admission is free to the public, with goodwill donations accepted to support the symphony's future operations.

The 2026 program features a unique collaboration between organist Bill Crane and the duo Také to Ito, which includes musicians Curtis Patterson and Bruce Huebner. The performance highlights a blend of Western pipe organ with traditional Japanese instruments, specifically the koto and the shakuhachi bamboo flute. The scheduled repertoire includes 17th-century pieces, contemporary Japanese compositions by Takashi Sakai, and arrangements of music by John Coltrane.

Practical details

Location described by the source: Pendleton First Presbyterian Church; eastoregonian.com
Area for browsing nearby events: Pendleton

Before attending

Check the sources below for current opening times, admission prices and registration requirements. A date range does not mean the event runs continuously or that admission is free.