What began as one woman’s homecoming has blossomed into one of Tarboro’s most anticipated cultural events. The Third Annual Music Festival, presented by the Tarboro Choral Society, is set to take place this spring—bringing with it a weekend of world-class performances, musical education, and community celebration.

At the heart of it all is Dr. Nettie Jean Williams, a Tarboro native whose journey from local music teacher to award-winning conductor and founder of the Oklahoma Master Chorale has come full circle. When she returned to Tarboro in 2015 following the passing of her husband, Dr. Williams reignited the town’s musical flame by founding the Tarboro Choral Society.

“I credit the town of Tarboro from my early days for providing the groundwork for my creativity and musical success,” she says.

Launched in 2023 with an “Opera Returns to Tarboro” theme, the festival set out to revive the spirit of the town’s long-lost opera traditions. That first year included concerts, masterclasses, children’s art workshops, and a sweeping finale at Edgecombe Community College’s Keihin Auditorium featuring a full orchestra and acclaimed soloists. 

Each year since, the festival has grown in talent, scope, and vision. This year’s event promises a musical trifecta of Brahms, Bach, and Beethoven. This year's concert series will take place on May 2nd (6:30p @ Clark Episcopal Church), May 3rd (7p @ Howard Memorial Presbyterian), and May 4th (7p @ Keihin Auditorium, ECC) on a Friday, Saturday, and Sunday in Tarboro. 

Friday’s performances focus on Brahms with a concert featuring the Carolina Choral Artists under conductor James Mauk and six dancers performing Viennese waltzes. Saturday is a deep dive into the sacred and intricate works of Bach, with five organists from the NC Guild of Organists sharing the stage. Sunday’s grand finale brings together the Tarboro Choral Society, a full professional orchestra, pianist Caleb Harris, soloist Rebekah Ambrosini, and a children’s chorus from Stokes Elementary School for a moving and memorable performance of Beethoven’s Choral Fantasy and Brahms’ Alto Rhapsody.

And like every year, admission is completely free.

The Tarboro Choral Society is powered entirely by grants and donations from local businesses and community members. This commitment ensures that the music remains accessible to everyone, regardless of income. Dr. Williams notes that it’s this kind of generosity that makes the festival possible, year after year.

“It’s important that these concerts remain free for all to attend,” she says. “We function solely on generosity.”

The Society has also expanded its partnership with Edgecombe Community College, joining their concert series offerings and reaching broader audiences across the county. This year also marks the first time children will be invited to sing—extending the musical experience to young performers and giving families even more reason to attend.

For those who’ve never experienced a Tarboro Choral Society performance, Dr. Williams offers a promise: “You’ll be blown out of your britches.” The concerts feature a blend of professional artists and passionate hobbyists coming together in harmony. It’s a showcase of what’s possible when talent and community intersect.

Beyond entertainment, there’s a deeper mission—to leave the audience, especially young people, with a newfound appreciation and love for classical music. And the Society is always open to welcoming new members, volunteers, and supporters. Anyone interested can visit tarborochoralsociety.com and click “Contact Us” to get involved.

Whether you’re a longtime classical music lover or just curious to hear something extraordinary, the Third Annual Music Festival invites you to come as you are—and leave inspired.