The 5 Browns, a Juilliard-trained piano quintet, bring their new program “The Edge of the World” to SUNY Fredonia on Sept. 20 at 7:30 p.m. in King Concert Hall as part of Rockefeller Arts Center’s DFT Communications Pops Series.
On September 20 at 7:30 p.m., music lovers are in for a treat as SUNY Fredonia’s Rockefeller Arts Center welcomes “The 5 Browns: The Edge of the World” to King Concert Hall. This acclaimed piano quintet, consisting of five siblings, will mesmerize audiences with their synchronized performances on five grand pianos, delivering a unique blend of classical pieces and contemporary favorites.
The 5 Browns are not newcomers to the stage; having performed at Rockefeller during the 2021 Christmas event, their return is highly anticipated. Trained at Juilliard, they effortlessly bridge the gap between the classical and modern music worlds. Their Steinway artist status affirms their expertise and dedication to their craft.
What sets this particular program apart is its intriguing concept of exploring the edges of the world—both physically and metaphorically. Inspired by the ancient notion of a flat Earth, this theme invites audiences to ponder profound questions: What lies beyond the known? What happens if we stand at the world’s edge? This thematic depth adds layers of meaning to their performances, making it an engaging experience for the audience.
Central to the concert is Nico Muhly’s piece, “The Edge of the World,” expressly written for The 5 Browns. This work exemplifies their ability to interpret contemporary compositions while remaining grounded in classical traditions. The program does not stop there. Audiences can expect selections from Gustav Holst’s iconic “The Planets,” featuring powerful movements like Mars, Neptune, and Jupiter. Furthermore, they will revisit the finale of Mozart’s “Jupiter” symphony, a piece known for its grandeur and intricacy.
The enchantment continues with a suite from the beloved film “The Wizard of Oz,” inviting listeners on a musical journey over the rainbow. Classic rock lovers will also be delighted, as the quintet includes a performance of the Beatles’ timeless hit, “Blackbird.” To wrap up the evening, they will present an electrifying rendition of “Danse Macabre” by Camille Saint-Saëns, a piece that guarantees to leave the audience buzzing with excitement.
In the world of music, The 5 Browns have received considerable accolades, with People magazine dubbing them the “Fab Five.” Their combination of talent, piano prowess, and charismatic stage presence has led publications like the New York Post to declare them “the biggest classical music sensation in years.” These endorsements reflect the quintet’s unique ability to appeal to a broad array of audiences, making classical music more relatable and accessible.
Tickets for this unmissable concert are available round the clock online at fredonia.edu/tickets. For those preferring a personal touch, tickets can also be purchased via phone on Mondays, Wednesdays, or Fridays at 716-673-3501 or at the Campus Ticket Office in the Williams Center. Don’t miss the opportunity to witness a musical experience that promises to redefine your understanding of ensemble performance.
This event is proudly sponsored by WDOE and 96 KIX Country, as part of the 2025-26 Lake Shore Bank Season at Rockefeller Arts Center. Audiences are encouraged to arrive early to enjoy the ambiance and perhaps even engage with others who share their passion for music.