The magical world of “Harry Potter” recently came to life in Cincinnati with three sold-out performances of the iconic soundtrack at Music Hall.
Under the direction of Daniel Wiley, the Cincinnati Pops Orchestra performed beloved pieces from the scores composed by John Williams, Patrick Doyle, Nicholas Hooper, Alexandre Desplat and James Newton Howard.
The 75-minute weekend performances, which featured elements from all eight films and the related “Fantastic Beasts” series, aimed to attract new and younger audiences to classical music. Wiley explained that the program highlighted the deep connection between film music and storytelling.
“This music is iconic and deeply enhances our connection to the story, offering a visceral and tangible experience for the listener,” Wiley said, donning a Gryffindor-inspired blazer and ruby-red loafers adorned with metallic “horcruxes” for all three shows.
Attracting a new, younger audience
The events, officially titled “A Night at Hogwarts: The Music of Harry Potter,” were more than just mere concerts. They presented opportunities to bring together multiple generations under one roof for an unforgettable experience, said Felecia Kanney, VP of marketing, communications & digital media for the CSO and Pops.
For some, it was a chance to revisit the so-called Potterverse through live music; for others, particularly children, it was their first introduction to the grandeur of an orchestra.
To build excitement, the Pops offered free immersive experiences before the show. Audience members of all ages, many dressed in wizarding robes and scarves, participated in dance classes, photo-ops and enjoyed butterbeer-inspired beverages. A “Free Dobby” sock drive supported Lighthouse Youth & Family Services.
Live owls, a nod to the iconic feathered creatures from the films, added to the magic. Children and families had the opportunity to get up close and learn about the mythical birds from trained handlers.
“By infusing the magic of Harry Potter with the power of live music — and activating the entire hall — we’re not just putting on a show; we’re creating a space where every generation can find something to enjoy and connect with,” Kanney said.
A trivia challenge drew four Harry Potter enthusiasts, representing each Hogwarts house, on stage to compete for the coveted Music Hall Cup. It was a particular favorite among younger fans, including 9-year-old Peter Juech, who attended last Saturday’s show with his parents.
“I loved it,” Peter exclaimed, noting that he also loved the performances of the “Harry Potter” theme song.
Peter’s father, John Juech, said he “just always loves being at Music Hall and basking in the magnificence of the place.” He also reflected on the importance of events like this one in introducing families to orchestral music.
The “Frog Orchestra” (the May Festival Youth Chorus), a group of young local musicians aged 8-12, sang Harry Potter-themed selections before the main concert, adding an extra layer of excitement and underscoring the Pops’ dedication to nurturing young talent.
“I think it’s great they do shows that appeal to children,” John Juech said of the Pops events team. “It makes it easier for them to experience the orchestra, especially when it’s tied to something they already love.”
A mission to bring orchestra music to the masses
For families like the Juechs, the “Harry Potter” concert was an introduction to the transformative power of symphonic music, one that transcends age and connects people to something greater than themselves.
While audiences sold out Friday and Saturday night performances, inclement weather caused a lower turnout for Sunday’s concert. But those who attended remained energized, and the event exceeded expectations, with many families experiencing the orchestra in a new and exciting context, Kanney said.
By offering such immersive experiences, the Cincinnati Pops hopes to cultivate fans and supporters of symphonic music. Through performances that integrate popular culture, interactive elements, and world-class orchestral music, the Pops is making classical music more accessible and enjoyable for families, young audiences and longtime supporters alike.
The CSO and Pops provide many opportunities for young people and families to enjoy performances every season. That includes the orchestra’s Young People’s Concerts, tailored for school-aged kids, and Lollipops Family concerts, designed for the young and young-at-heart. The next Lollipops concert, “Lost in Space!,” is on Feb. 1 at Music Hall.
“Our mission is to seek and share inspiration; our vision is to be America’s most relevant orchestra, ensuring our work resonates with diverse audiences of all ages, backgrounds and interests,” said Robert McGrath, acting president and CEO of the CSO and Pops.
High-profile performances such as “A Night at Hogwarts” take that mission to the next level.
“This concert reflects our dedication to making orchestral music relevant and accessible, engaging diverse, multi-generational audiences with unforgettable experiences,” McGrath added.
As the final notes of “Harry Potter” echoed through Music Hall last week, it was clear that the magic of orchestral music had cast its spell on more than a few new fans of the orchestra.
“Everyone did so good,” Peter Juech recalled.
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