Harmony of Hearts: A Tribute Concert Honoring Peter Strickland

The Gardner-Webb University Orchestra will present a special concert on Monday, Nov. 24, at 7 p.m. in Dover Theatre honoring 1997 alumnus Peter Strickland, director of the Crest High School Chamber Orchestra. For more than 20 years, the GWU Orchestra and Crest Chamber Orchestra have partnered on dozens of classical and contemporary programs, and this concert celebrates Strickland’s legacy as he prepares to retire from Cleveland County Schools in May 2026.

The evening will feature the world premiere of a commissioned work in Strickland’s honor, “Harmina Cordium” (“The Harmony of Hearts”) by award-winning composer R. Christopher Teichler, along with a piano solo performance by Gardner-Webb freshman Arturo Ayla. Ayla, a decorated young musician and pianist with the GWU Orchestra, currently studies piano with Dr. Bruce Moser and organ performance with Dr. Gianfranco Deluca.

Tickets are $15 for general admission and free for all students, Gardner-Webb faculty, and staff. Purchase or reserve tickets here.

Auxiliary aids will be made available to persons with disabilities upon request 10 days prior to the event. Please call 704-406-4270 or email your request to disabilityservices@gardner-webb.edu. 
Programs are subject to change.  For more information please call 704-406-4448.