PRINCETON NJ Announcement

Musical Tribute to the Sourland Mountains December 7

Hopewell Valley Arts Council Presents the Premiere of The Sourland Symphony — A Musical Tribute to the Sourland Mountains

Sunday, December 7, 2025 at Hopewell Theater | 5 S. Greenwood Ave, Hopewell NJ HOPEWELL, NJ 

The Hopewell Valley Arts Council is proud to present the premiere of The Sourland Symphony, a sweeping new musical work by acclaimed local guitarist and composer James Popik, on Sunday, December 7, 2025, from 2:00–3:30pm at the Hopewell Theater.

Inspired by the beauty, mystery, and enduring presence of the Sourland Mountains, this nine-piece instrumental suite blends elements of rock, jazz, classical, and blues into a rich, acoustic soundscape. Popik and his ensemble of seasoned musicians invite listeners on a vivid musical journey—from the joyful momentum of Woosamonsa Valley to the expansive, meditative sweep of Southside Spring, Roaring Rocks and Devils Half Acre Blues.

The work has already drawn high praise from regional critics.

“Popik has assembled an incredible cast of seasoned musicians to make this nine-song collection of instrumental offerings not only come to life, but through their craftsmanship, allows listeners to go upon a sonic journey through which, if one closes their eyes, they can envision the very mountain(s) on which the music is based.” — Danny Coleman, New Jersey Stage Magazine

“We are fortunate to have so many gifted artists living in Hopewell Valley,” said Carol Lipson, Executive Director of the Hopewell Valley Arts Council. “To have a local composer debut a major original work rooted in our own landscape is truly something special.” Popik added, “I’ve found enormous inspiration from the Sourlands, and I am extremely grateful to the Arts Council for this opportunity to share the music with you all.”

Popik, a Grammy-featured artist, recently signed a multi-release contract with Wayfarer Records. His extensive performance career includes more than 3,000 gigs across 250 venues from Maine to New Orleans—including an appearance at The White House. He has shared the stage with Los Lonely Boys, Dave Mason, the Marshall Tucker Band, Steve Forbert, and Robert Hazard, among others. Vinyl copies will be available for purchase at the performance.

Tickets are $60 and are available at www.hvartscouncil.org.