Music on the Corner will be presenting its final concert of this season, "A Trio Tribute to John P Smith, IV,” , on Friday May 10th at 6:00 PM. The free performance will feature 3 of Roanoke’s leading soloists, Akemi Takayama, violin, Kelly Mikkelsen, cello, and Julee Hickcox, flute, in the beautiful setting of St. John’s Episcopal Church at the corner of Jefferson Street and Elm Avenue in downtown Roanoke. These three gifted local artists join forces to present a joyful and enchanting program in loving memory of and as a tribute to John P. Smith IV, a long-time fixture in the Roanoke Valley music scene. The concert will include works of Bach, Handel, and others. In addition to celebrated solos, duets, and trios, concertgoers will be treated to a “surprise” duet performed by Ms. Takayama and Ms. Mikkelsen.

John Preston Smith IV, a beloved member of the Roanoke community, suddenly and tragically passed away at the age of 63 on May 15th, 2023. A classical musician by trade, he earned a Bachelor of Music from George Mason University and was a musician in the Roanoke Symphony Orchestra for over 30 years. John contributed his talents to many Music on the Corner concerts as well as to other musical performances in our area. Beyond playing the double bass, he was also a sailor, traveler, artist, and proud cat dad. John truly led an eclectic life and had a personality to match.

A pre-concert reception will be held in the St. John's Grand Hallway beginning at 5:15 PM. Concert Patrons are also invited to a cookies and lemonade "Meet the Artists" following the concert.