Bay College is excited to announce a new season of Strings on the Bay, its annual chamber music concert series, continuing a tradition of bringing high-quality performances to the community while embarking on an inspiring new chapter.
Founded by Arol Beck, a longtime Bay College Trustee and dedicated arts supporter, Strings on the Bay has enriched the region for decades through exceptional musical experiences. This enduring partnership with Bay College has helped sustain and grow the series, making it a cherished part of the local cultural landscape.
Following more than 30 years of artistic leadership by Paul Lundin, the series now transitions into new hands. Longtime Strings on the Bay flutist, Emily Olson will step into the role of Music Director, marking an exciting evolution for the program. Olson also serves as Artistic Director of Beacon Arts Michigan, a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting chamber music across the Upper Peninsula and expanding access to high-quality performances, arts education, and community engagement opportunities.
Under Olson’s leadership, Strings on the Bay will continue to deliver the exceptional performances audiences have come to expect, while expanding its creative direction and strengthening its connection to the community through this valuable partnership.
All concerts will be held in the Besse Center Theater on Bay College’s Escanaba Campus. Performances begin at 7:00 p.m. ET on select Tuesdays throughout the summer.
2026 Concert Schedule
June 16, 2026 | Merged | Submerged - Beacon Arts Trio
A vibrant and imaginative program featuring flute, violin/viola, and harp. This performance
explores poetic landscapes, the Harlem Renaissance, and the depths of the sea.
July 14, 2026 | Once Upon a Piano, There Were Four Hands - Amy I-Lin Cheng & Alexander Burrow
An intimate evening featuring a mother-son duo performing solo and four-hand piano
works, celebrating storytelling, legacy, and new beginnings.
August 11, 2026 | American Echoes - True North String Quartet
A powerful season finale honoring cultural heritage and community, including a special
opportunity for local voices to participate in a collaborative musical experience.
Tickets are available online, at the Besse Center Box Office, or at the door prior to each performance. Admission is $15, or $7 for students from kindergarten through Bay College. A three-concert bundle is available for $35 (a $10 savings) by visiting baycollege.tix.com and using the discount code 3for35 at checkout.
Strings on the Bay is made possible through the generous support of its sponsors. Sponsorship opportunities are available for $130, which includes two tickets to each concert, recognition in the program, and a tax-deductible receipt.
For more information or to become a sponsor, visit www.baycollege.edu/strings or mail a check to:
Bay College Foundation
2001 N Lincoln Rd
Escanaba, MI 49829
About Bay College
Bay College is the community’s college with a mission of: Student Success, Community Success, and Culture of Success. Bay is devoted to each individual’s achievement in the classroom, on-campus, online, in the community and into the workforce by providing career certificates, associate degrees, transferable university credits, industry certifications, trainings, and professional development programs which develop skillsets, enrich individuals, and advance careers. #BayIsTheWay