A Legacy of Music and Community – Warfield Concert Series
On the latest Delta Magic Hour, we had the pleasure of sitting down with Holly Peters, a dedicated committee member of the Warfield Concert Series. What followed was a rich conversation about history, culture, and the power of the arts to bring people together in Helena-West Helena and across the Delta.
A Cultural Gift with Deep Roots
The Warfield Concert Series has a unique and inspiring origin story. Founded in 1939 by Samuel Drake Warfield—known affectionately as S.D. Warfield—the series was established through his will after his untimely death at just 39 years old. Despite never attending college, Warfield was a man of sophistication and passion for the arts, particularly opera and classical music. He had a vision: to make world-class performances accessible to everyone in the Delta, completely free of charge.
And that mission continues today. For over 80 years, Warfield Concerts have brought internationally renowned performers to the region, turning stages in Helena-West Helena into windows to the wider world.
The People Behind the Music
Holly Peters, who moved to the area through Teach for America, brings a fresh and thoughtful perspective to the series. Her hope is to foster a “renaissance of the arts” in the region—one that revives creativity, inspires new audiences, and most importantly, brings people together.
She emphasized that this effort is not hers alone. Holly works closely with fellow committee members Monique Miller and Brenda Braden, forming a small but mighty team that collaborates year-round to plan and host each season's performances. Together, they coordinate artists, logistics, and community outreach—making sure Warfield stays true to its mission of accessibility and excellence.
A Shared Space for All
During the interview, Holly discussed the importance of making concerts a shared space where people of all backgrounds can enjoy world-class music side by side. She sees Warfield as more than entertainment—it’s a cultural bridge and a community builder.
One of her key goals is to increase youth attendance and engagement. By introducing the next generation to the arts, she believes the Warfield Series can help spark a lifelong appreciation for creativity and culture.
Collaboration and Community Impact
Holly also highlighted partnerships with local groups like the Helena Little Theater, which collaborates with Warfield every other year for festive holiday productions. She referenced the book Free Tickets by Helen Mosby as a great source for anyone interested in the full history of Warfield’s legacy.
More Than a Concert
What came through most clearly in this Delta Magic Hour is that the Warfield Concert Series isn’t just about music. It’s about community, inclusivity, and honoring a legacy that continues to enrich lives today. With the dedication of committee members like Holly Peters, Monique Miller, and Brenda Braden—who work together to bring each concert to life—the future of Warfield looks just as bright as its past.
To learn more about the Warfield Concert Series or get involved, stay tuned for announcements on upcoming events and performances.