Maestro James Rawie's
Tahoe Philharmonic
Orchestra and Chorus
Experience the Timeless Elegance of Live Symphony
and Choral Masterpieces
For 21 years, Maestro James Rawie has led the Reno–Tahoe classical music community with vision, passion, and artistry. Join us for unforgettable performances that inspire the soul and celebrate the power of live symphonic and choral music in the heart of the Sierra.
As a dedicated nonprofit organization, we are committed to bringing world-class orchestral and choral experiences closer to home. Our concerts take place in beautiful venues throughout Lake Tahoe, Truckee, the Carson Valley, and Reno, Nevada—connecting our community through music that moves, uplifts, and endures.
Every Piece is a Classic
Celebrating 21 Years of Tahoe’s Finest Classical Music
February 20 to March 1, 2026
As part of the Every Piece is a Classic concert series, the Tahoe Philharmonic Chorus and Orchestra invite audiences this February to experience an inspiring evening of masterworks featuring Johann Sebastian Bach’s majestic Magnificat, and Felix Mendelssohn’s beloved Violin Concerto in E Minor, performed by guest soloist Kevin Matheson, violin.
Bach’s Magnificat bursts with energy, brilliance, and Baroque splendor, celebrating joy, faith, and triumph through vibrant choral writing and dazzling orchestration. Mendelssohn’s iconic concerto adds a virtuosic and romantic centerpiece, showcasing soaring melodies and passionate intensity.
Together, these timeless works truly embody the spirit of Every Piece is a Classic, promising an unforgettable concert of emotional depth, spiritual power, and musical brilliance.
Saturday, February 21 at 4:00pm
Reno: St. Lukes Lutheran Church
Sunday, February 22 at 4:00pm
Incline Village: St. Patrick's Episcopal Church
Saturday, February 28 at 4:00pm
Minden: CVIC Hall
Sunday, March 1 at 4:00pm
Reno: St. Rose of Lima
Tickets
General Admission: $30 adults
Preferred Seating: $40 adults / $15 youth
Premium Seating: $50 adults / $25 youth
Youth under 23: Free (general admission seating area)
Seniors: $5 discount in all seating areas
“Back Row” Seating: Free—donate what you can
Passion-Resurrection
The Majesty of Bach & The Joy of Handel
March 29 to April 7, 2026
Join us this Easter Week for a profoundly moving musical journey, as the Tahoe Philharmonic Orchestra and Chorus present two of the most beloved masterworks in sacred music.
The first half features a shortened version of Johann Sebastian Bach’s St. Matthew Passion, a work of extraordinary emotional depth that traces the story of Christ’s betrayal, trial, and crucifixion with haunting beauty and dramatic power.
In the second half, the music turns from sorrow to triumph with stirring selections from George Frederic Handel’s Messiah, celebrating the Resurrection and the promise of new life. Highlights include:
🎶 Surely He Hath Borne Our Griefs
🎶 All We Like Sheep Have Gone Astray
🎶 Why Do the Nations So Furiously Rage Together
🎺 The Trumpet Shall Sound
🎉 and the radiant Hallelujah Chorus
Together, these timeless works create an unforgettable Easter experience — a sweeping musical reflection on sacrifice, renewal, and hope, brought to life by the Tahoe Philharmonic Orchestra and Chorus.
TahoePhil DOES IT!
$225,000 Launches Tahoe Philharmonic Orchestra and Chorus
When faced with challenges, family and community provide the foundation for resilience. This was evident when James and Nancy Rawie embarked on creating the Tahoe Philharmonic Orchestra and Chorus in October 2024. With unwavering support, a majority of the orchestra and chorus members followed Rawie into this new endeavor, collectively donating over 50% of the necessary $75,000 funds to ensure the continuation of 40 annual classical concerts in the Reno-Tahoe region.This brings the total donated funds to $225,000 in only 6 weeks.
Maestro James Rawie founded and led the Toccata Tahoe Symphony organization for the past 19 years, conducting over 600 classical music performances. Annual favorites included The Messiah, Saint Matthew's Passion, Violin Concertos and Patriotic celbrations.
In the summer of 2024, a difficult decision led to the separation from his founding orchestra worrying his devoted musicians and singers who had performed with him for nearly two decades. However, Rawie’s characteristic energy and persistence led to the formation of a new organization: Tahoe Philharmonic Orchestra and Chorus.
James Rawie is a two-time Xterra Triathlon champion. “He is a tornado of energy,” says his wife, Nancy. James used that same energy and persistence to start the new Tahoe Philharmonic Orchestra and Chorus, ensuring that classical music would continue to thrive in the Reno-Tahoe region.
At the very first concert in December, Kevan and Susan Lesch stepped forward as instrumental supporters. Longtime concertgoers, the Lesch’s recognized the importance of sustaining Rawie’s vision and offered a generous challenge grant—$175,000 if TahoePhil could raise $75,000.
“We did it mostly because of our friendship. We believe in them and stand behind them,” said Kevan Lesch. “We also wanted to see if there was enough support for the organization to thrive.”
The challenge was announced on December 13, and by January 27, the full $75,000 had been raised. The overwhelming response underscored the strong commitment of the musicians and audience alike. Notably, over 60 dedicated orchestra and chorus members contributed 55% of the funds—an incredible $41,200.
“This speaks volumes about the love and dedication our musicians have for Rawie’s mission,” said singer Debbie Sessions. “In Reno and Tahoe, there are many musical opportunities, but those who perform with James do so because of the family atmosphere he creates.”
With the funding secured, the Tahoe Philharmonic can complete its inaugural season and celebrate James Rawie’s 20th anniversary as a conductor in the region.
Changing Tahoe's Tune
In March 2025, the Reno News and Review featured a wonderful piece on James Rawie, highlighting his remarkable journey as a conductor and his inspiring move to establish the Tahoe Philharmonic. Be sure to check it out for an inside look at his passion for music and the orchestra's exciting future!
Contact Us
Maestro James Rawie's
Tahoe Philharmonic
Orchestra & Chorus
info@tahoe-philharmonic.com
+1765-862-2282