Fort Myers Philharmonic to honor first responders with Sept. 11 concert

By happeningsmagazine

The Fort Myers Philharmonic will open its 2026-27 season with a moving tribute to the heroes of Sept. 11 and the first responders who continue to serve our community. Honoring First Responders, under the direction of music director Paul Nadler, will take place on Friday, Sept. 11 at 7:30 p.m. at the Barbara B. Mann Performing Arts Hall at FSW.

The special commemorative concert marks the 25th anniversary of the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks with an evening of remembrance, reflection, and extraordinary music.
Before the performance, WGCU’s Tom Hall will present a short film featuring interviews with first responders who served at the World Trade Center on Sept. 11, offering personal reflections on courage, sacrifice, and resilience. The film sets the stage for an evening dedicated to honoring those who answered the call in one of America’s darkest moments.

The musical program opens with Samuel Barber’s Adagio for Strings, one of the most poignant and emotionally powerful works in the orchestral repertoire. Its timeless beauty has become synonymous with remembrance and healing.