Homecoming Concert features an "˜eclectic, engaging blend' of music
The 16th Annual Homecoming Concert will kick-off an exciting year for the Valparaiso University Symphony Orchestra as they prepare for their tour of New Year’s Gala Concerts in China from Dec. 27, 2012 through Jan. 7, 2013.
The Homecoming Concert takes place at 8 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 6, in the Chapel of the Resurrection. The performance follows the 4 p.m. Homecoming Choral Concert featuring the University Chorale, the Women’s Choir, and the Men’s Choir.
“The Orchestra’s Homecoming Concert will have an eclectic, engaging blend, built around concertos by young composers,” says Dennis Friesen-Carper, Reddel Professor of Music as well as conductor of the Symphony Orchestra. The music of the day is an important part of the Homecoming festivities, offering variety for alumni and friends visiting, as well as for the students.
The concert also features Dr. Ericka Grodrian, Assistant Professor of Music, performing the Mozart classic, “Concerto for Horn with Orchestra No. 4” as well as Dr. Stacy Maugans, Assistant Professor of Music, performing the “Saxophone Concerto” by pop-influenced composer Michael Torke. This piece includes a chamber orchestra featuring four percussionists.
The Symphony Orchestra performance will be framed with dramatic overtures by Strauss and Verdi. Samuel Barber’s “Adagio for Strings,” is recognizable from the searing emotional contribution it makes to numerous films including “Platoon,” “The Scarlet Letter,” “Elephant Man,” “Reconstruction,” and “El Norte” will complete the program. The concert performance will celebrate the beginning of a great year for Valparaiso University’s Department of Music and they are inviting the entire Valpo community to be a part of it.
Tickets are $15 for adults and $10 for senior citizens and non-Valpo students. Admission is free for VU students, faculty, and staff with ID card. Visit valpo.edu/TheArts or call 219-464-5162 for more information and to purchase tickets.
About Valparaiso University
Valparaiso University is a comprehensive independent Lutheran university with more than 4,000 students on its campus located in Northwest Indiana, an hour from Chicago. Valpo is a community of purpose-driven, service-minded and ethical individuals who embrace the pursuit of truth with freedom, humility and compassion. Valpo has been identified as one of the top master’s-level institutions in the Midwest by U.S. News & World Report magazine for the past 22 years. Valparaiso University offers 110 undergraduate academic programs through the colleges of Arts and Sciences, Business Administration, Engineering and Nursing. Valpo also has a distinguished honors college, a School of Law and more than 40 degree and certificate programs in its Graduate School and Continuing Education Division. Valpo has been recognized for its commitment to outstanding teaching, preparing thoughtful leaders with strong cross-cultural skills and global awareness, and dedication to serving others.