AUSTINTOWN, Ohio – Jazz pianist Theron Brown and his trio will give a free concert at 1 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 23, at St. Blaise Parish’s St. Joseph Church, 4545 New Road.

Admission is free.

Brown has shared stages with artists across various genres, from the Cleveland Orchestra to Snarky Puppy. He has performed at the Kennedy Center in Washington, D.C., and other major venues across the globe.

A pivotal moment in his career came with his portrayal of young Herbie Hancock in the 2015  film “Miles Ahead,” directed by Don Cheadle, which showcased his acting talent.

Brown lives in Akron, where he dedicates himself to the local arts scene as the artist coordinator for I Promise School, a board member of several cultural organizations, and founder of the Rubber City Jazz & Blues Festival.

His work as an educator extends from Firefly Music School to Kent State University.

With his recent recordings, including his latest release, “Mr. Magnetic,” Brown continues to blend gospel and jazz influences.

Holiday Open House at the Hoyt

NEW CASTLE, Pa. – Arts & Education at the Hoyt’s holiday open house will take place from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 23.

This free annual event allows visitors to explore the museum and community center’s historic houses and also sit in on classroom demonstrations, make holiday crafts, shop for locally made gifts and tour the elaborately decorated period house. 

Classes include stained glass, watercolor, drawing, ceramics and music lessons.

Music instructors Antonio Ford (voice, keyboard, guitar and drums), Beth Goldstein McKee (cello), Karen Douds (piano) and Paul Douds (guitar) will be available to talk about year-round music lessons adaptable for all ages and skill levels.

Both children and adults can join Hoyt staff and volunteers in the ballroom to craft ribbon trees, paper angels, holiday gnomes and snow globes. 

The expanded gift shop will carry locally produced wares ranging from pottery, jewelry, glass and ceramics to prints, stickers, magnets and more.

Mr. and Mrs. Claus will be on-site from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. for photos, accompanied by children’s stories every half hour. 

The open house will additionally feature the unveiling of The Presidential Pottery Bell in conjunction with America250PA’s Bells Across PA program at 1 p.m. The design was inspired by the presidential plates produced by Shenango China in 1955 and 1968 and the county’s fireworks heritage. The ceremony will take place off the southern terrace of Hoyt East, adjacent to the main galleries. 

Shenango Valley Gets Ready for Holidays 

SHARON, Pa. – Holiday kick-off events in the Shenango Valley will feature traditions in downtown Sharon and Hermitage, followed by a special Small Business Saturday celebration Nov. 29.

The holiday magic will begin Friday, Nov. 21, in downtown Sharon with the annual Night of Lights Christmas Tree Lighting celebration. Festivities will start at 5 p.m. with live entertainment, seasonal treats and family fun – including a reindeer petting area in the green space downtown. At 6 p.m., Santa Claus will help light up the community Christmas tree.

On Saturday, Nov. 22, the Hermitage Holiday Light Parade will start at 6 p.m.

Small Business Saturday in the Shenango Valley will take place Nov. 29 at shops in downtown Sharon and Hermitage.

Shoppers are encouraged to explore local boutiques, cafés, galleries and markets while taking advantage of special promotions, pop-up shopping experiences and holiday-themed activities. Participating stores will feature festive decorations, giveaways and extended hours.

For information, go to SharonPA.com.

Graduating YSU Art Students Exhibition

YOUNGSTOWN, Ohio – The fall 2025 Graduating BFA Exhibition, featuring the art and design work of students graduating in the fall semester from Youngstown State University, will  open at the McDonough Museum of Art on Friday, Nov. 21, and run through Dec. 13. 

An opening reception will take place from 5-7 p.m. Friday.

Participants in the exhibition include Amirah Chieu, Mason Culbertson, Ray Glenn, Sam Mastorides, Elise McMaster, Mason Parks, Alexxia Rom, Ashley Stamper, Andrew Stasion, Anthony Steiner, Erin Straker and Emma Strope-Downs.

The exhibition and reception are free and open to the public. The museum is open from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tuesday-Saturday.

Lecture on Shenango Valley in Civil War

YOUNGSTOWN, Ohio – Taylor Galaska, author and Sharon Historical Society president, will give a free lecture on the Shenango Valley’s Civil War history and its ties to the Mahoning Valley at noon Nov. 20 at the Tyler History Center, 325 W. Federal St., downtown.

Following the fall of Fort Sumter, President Abraham Lincoln and Pennsylvania Gov. Andrew Curtin called for 75,000 men to suppress the rebellion. Many from the Shenango Valley enlisted, uncertain of what lay ahead.

In the years leading up to the war, Sharon transitioned from a small village to a thriving town, spurred by the discovery of Sharon Block Coal and the arrival of the Erie Extension Canal. The founding of Sharon Iron Co. in 1850 marked the beginning of industrialization, with Sharon, Wheatland and Sharpsville becoming known as “the three links of the iron chain.” By the war’s end, returning soldiers had been transformed by their experiences, many rising to become community leaders. Monuments were built to honor their sacrifices, and the Grand Army of the Republic played a significant role in supporting veterans.

Wind Ensemble and Concert Band to Perform 

YOUNGSTOWN, Ohio – A performance by Youngstown State University’s Wind Ensemble and Concert Band will take place at 4 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 23, at Stambaugh Auditorium. The concert will feature traditional marches and contemporary works and holiday favorites.

To purchase tickets in advance, go to StambaughAuditorium.com.

Jazz Combos in Concert in Bliss Hall 

YOUNGSTOWN, Ohio – Youngstown State University’s jazz combos, led by Kent Engelhardt and Glenn Schaft, will perform at 7:30 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 20, in Ford Theater, lowest level of Bliss Hall. 

The concert is free and open to the public. Parking is available in the Wick Avenue deck (M30) for a $5 cash fee.

Christmas Worship Service at Westminster

NEW WILMINGTON, Pa. – Westminster College invites students, families, alumni and community members to its annual Christmas Worship Service at 4 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 7, in Orr Auditorium. 

This campus tradition celebrates the Advent season through Scripture, music, prayer and reflection and is free and open to the public.

Those unable to attend in person can view the service live HERE.

This year’s service will feature the message “Can It Be?,” delivered by the Rev. James R. Mohr II, chaplain and director of church relations. Scripture readings will be offered by senior members of the Class of 2026.

The service will include musical performances by the Westminster College Concert Choir and Chamber Singers.

The event will also include carillon music. 

A free-will offering will be collected during the service.

Pictured at top: Theron Brown will perform at St. Joseph Church in Austintown.