The beloved Boston Pops is renowned for its free annual Fourth of July concert along the Charles River, yet its parent organization, the Boston Symphony Orchestra (BSO), is no stranger to gratis shows in recent years. Those looking to experience the acclaimed ensemble at no cost need look no further than the upcoming appearance on May 5 at 2 p.m. at Symphony Hall. This “Concert for the City” features both the BSO and the Pops, the Tanglewood Festival Chorus and conductors Andris Nelsons, Keith Lockhart (pictured above right at last year’s concert), Thomas Wilkins and James Burton, along with several guest performers, a Tina Turner tribute from the Boston Arts Academy and an invocation by Boston youth poet laureate, Leynneyah Verona Birkett. There are even pre-concert performances by eight local groups throughout the storied venue, as well as an instrument playground for the kids. Complimentary tickets can be reserved online.
Speaking of the Pops and conductor Keith Lockhart at Symphony Hall, the orchestra returns for its spring season May 10 & 11 at 7:30 p.m., joined by multi-talented guest Harry Connick, Jr. Come back with the kids on May 11 & 18 at 2 p.m. for Encanto in Concert Live to Film, while the Pops pay tribute to rock icons Queen May 15 & 16 at 7:30 p.m. Other notable early season concerts include jazz ambassador Branford Marsalis taking the stage the evenings of May 22 & 23 and Jurassic Park in concert May 24 at 7:30 p.m. and May 25 at 2 p.m.
