Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Experience World-Class Performing Arts in Washington, D.C.
Washington Performing Arts has been a transformative force in the cultural landscape of Washington, D.C. for over five decades. Founded with a mission to champion the arts as a unifying force, we have cultivated partnerships with local schools, communities, and international artists to deliver world-class performances and educational programs. Our organization produces over 25 dynamic concert experiences annually, featuring symphony orchestras, gospel choirs, and renowned artists across classical, jazz, and global genres. Through initiatives like the Embassy Adoption Program and Mars Arts D.C., we have provided equitable access to the arts for underserved populations.Our education programs, including the Children of the Gospel Choir and the Misbin Family Memorial Chamber Music Competition, have nurtured generations of young artists. We prioritize community engagement through performances in diverse venues, from historic synagogues to outdoor plazas, ensuring cultural enrichment reaches all audiences. Our commitment to accessibility is demonstrated through $15 ticket programs for federal workers and complimentary guest passes for donors. With a legacy of innovation and inclusivity, we continue to bridge communities through the power of artistic expression.
Services
Gospel Music Programs
Education Programs
Concerts in Schools
Chamber Music Competitions
Cultural Diplomacy Events
Details
- Year established: 1965
Highlights and features
- We have a 50-year legacy of cultural enrichment in Washington, D.C.
- Our education programs have nurtured thousands of young artists since 1965.
- We offer accessible $15 tickets for federal workers and contractors.
- We present 25+ annual performances across diverse regional venues.
- Our partnerships include D.C. Public Schools and international cultural institutions.
What people say
Transformative programs
Cultural enrichment
Accessible pricing
Educational value
Community impact
Services
Gospel Music Programs
Our Gospel Music Programs showcase the Children of the Gospel Choir and Strathmore Youth Chorus in dynamic performances. These ensembles blend traditional and contemporary gospel music to celebrate cultural heritage. Through annual concert series and community outreach, we provide platforms for emerging artists while preserving this vital American art form.
Education Programs
We deliver comprehensive arts education through initiatives like the Embassy Adoption Program and Misbin Family Memorial Chamber Music Competition. Our programs provide mentorship, performance opportunities, and music instruction to students across D.C. public schools. These initiatives foster artistic development while building essential life skills through structured musical training.
Cultural Diplomacy Events
The World in Our City series highlights global cultural exchange through performances and collaborations with international artists. These events celebrate Washington's diverse communities while promoting cross-cultural understanding. By featuring international ensembles and hosting diplomatic partnerships, we create bridges between local and global audiences.
Concerts in Schools
Our Concerts in Schools program brings professional artists to educational institutions across the region. These interactive performances expose students to various musical genres while complementing school curricula. Through live demonstrations and artist Q&As, we make classical and contemporary music accessible to young audiences.
Chamber Music Competitions
The Misbin Family Memorial Chamber Music Competition identifies and nurtures young musical talent through competitive performance opportunities. Participants receive professional coaching and perform in formal adjudicated settings. This program develops technical proficiency while preparing musicians for professional careers in classical music.
Questions
What types of performances does Washington Performing Arts offer?
We present classical music concerts, gospel programs, international cultural events, and educational performances across Washington, D.C.
How can students participate in your education programs?
Students can join through school partnerships, audition for choirs, or participate in chamber music competitions and mentorship initiatives.
Are tickets accessible for federal workers?
Yes, we offer $15 tickets for current and recently laid-off federal workers and contractors for select performances.
How does the organization support local communities?
Through school partnerships, free programs like Mars Arts D.C., and performances in diverse neighborhood venues across the region.
What is the Guest Pass benefit for donors?
Donors at specific levels receive complimentary tickets to introduce friends to our performances and explore new genres.
How can I purchase tickets?
Tickets are available online, by phone at (202) 785-9727, or through venue box offices for individual performances.
Reviews (3)
Mark Bilfield
Oct 05, 2020
Report
Great, innovative programs. Inspiring work by new and existing musicians and singers. Extremely well run organization! Involved and respected for their efforts to promote local community talent as well as well known artists.
Anthony Britti
Jun 26, 2016
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We purchased tickets through Washington Performing Arts Society, only to learn later that we had a conflict which did not permit us to go to the performance. WPAS does not allow exchanges of tickets. We're out nearly $100.00, and we're not happy. We will be avoiding WPAS like the plague in the future. Caveat emptor.
The Pink Line Project
Jan 28, 2013
Report
The Washington Performing Arts Society does an excellent job at providing classical music to all in the greater Washington, DC area. From top-notch soloists to enticing performances, the WPAS works continuously and tirelessly to dispense exalting productions to all.
