Mayor Pangallo begins second term at PEM ceremony as poets and performers frame the moment—and the creative sector speaks without being named. On a Monday morning in January, just days before Salem’s official 400+ anniversary kickoff, the city inaugurated its 2026 leadership the way this city does so many things: surrounded by art, grounded in history, and looking resolutely forward.

The Salem State Music Department is taking its large ensemble concerts on the road, presenting its spring concerts at Salem High School. Three separate concerts will take place showcasing the University Orchestra on April 20, the University Band on April 26, and the University Chorus and Chamber Singers on April 27. Each concert will begin at 7:30pm at Salem High