Mission Valley Live takes a rhythm-infused leap into the performing arts season Oct. 30 with Solomon Jaye's show, “Tap into Soul.” His show, at 7 p.m. at the Ronan Performing Arts Center, is the first installment in what executive director Trish Rodrique describes as “an incredible, exciting lineup of artists for our 2026-27 season.”

The tap-dancing soul singer, backed by a three-piece band, blends multi-octave vocals and world-class tap dancing in a setlist featuring both classic and contemporary chart-topping hits.

His cross-genre mashup of music and dance moves seamlessly from James Brown, Al Green and Stevie Wonder to Earth, Wind & Fire, Bruno Mars and Ed Sheeran.

The second show of the eight-concert series welcomes the holiday season Dec. 11 with Buzz Brass at the Polson High School Auditorium.

The award-winning Canadian quintet has been travelling the world and captivating music lovers for 24 years and has given over 2,000 concerts across North America, Europe and China.

Their holiday show blends good cheer with classics such as Tchaikovsky’s Nutcracker suite and the traditional “Silent Night,” as well as more modern repertoire like “Sleigh Ride” and “The Twelve Days of Christmas.”

The Trevor Panczak Band lends a country flavor to the first concert of the 2027 season, Jan. 22 in Polson. The award-winning country music entertainer grew up on a farm north of Cutbank and now lives with his family in southern Alberta.

The 6’5” “Gentle Giant” is a singer/songwriter with country music in his blood, who brings authenticity, warmth and talent to the stage.

The season continues with a guitar and violin duo, Yu and I, Feb. 19; The Empire Trio, March 12; guitarist Luca Stricagnoli, April 9; Jason Lyle Black with Haley Renee, April 30;  and the Calloway Chamber Players, May 21.

Even before the series’ first performance, Mission Valley Live has been enriching local schools and communities. In September, talented violinist Byron Wallis offered two outreach programs at the Polson library, and last week two actors from the Missoula Children's Theater brought 19 acting and improv classes to students in Dixon, Charlo, Ronan, Valley View, Polson and Dayton.

While Solomon Jaye is in town this week for “Tap into Soul,” the artist is scheduled to present three outreach programs in the schools and at Providence St. Joseph Assisted Living; and Buzz Brass will also offer an outreach program.

How do students respond?

“That was the coolest thing I have ever seen,” said Connor Durglo after Pamyua performed for Ronan students in 2025.

And young Sylvie was very excited when The McDades performed at Cherry Valley Elementary last spring. She learned to dance fast, with her hands on her hips, and discovered, “there’s a big whistle and a little whistle.”

According to Rodrique, tickets prices went up this year to $20 each or $125 for the eight-show season, and are only available at the door or online.

For tickets and more information, visit missionvalleylive.com.

    Canada's Buzz Brass offers a festive start to the holiday season as part of Mission Valley Live's performing arts series. (Courtesy photo)