Philadelphia Virtuosi Chamber Orchestra to open SFA's University Series

The Philadelphia Virtuosi Chamber Orchestra will open the SFA College of Fine Arts' 2010-2011 University Series at 7:30 p.m. Tuesday, Sept. 14, in W.M. Turner Auditorium on the SFA campus.

NACOGDOCHES, TEXAS - The Stephen F. Austin State University College of Fine Arts will open the University Series' 50th season of performances with the renowned Philadelphia Virtuosi Chamber Orchestra at 7:30 p.m. Tuesday, Sept. 14, in W.M. Turner Auditorium.

"Known for its innovative programming, acclaimed tours, and award-winning recordings, the Philadelphia Virtuosi exemplifies the College of Fine Arts' commitment to bring world-class artists to East Texas through the University Series," said Dr. John W. Goodall, associate dean of the college.

"We are proud to open our Golden Anniversary Season with this fine ensemble, founded and directed by former SFA music faculty member Dan Spalding," Goodall continued.

Since Spalding formed the orchestra in 1991, it has risen to international distinction, with performances that are described as "captivating" (London Observer), "exciting" (San Francisco Examiner), "breathtaking" (Bermuda Royal Gazette) and "magnificent" (San Bernardino County Sun).

The orchestra will open the concert with W.A. Mozart's Divertimento in F, K. 138, followed by the Overture to "The Barber of Seville" by Gioacchino Rossini.

Pianist Gabriela Imreh will then join the orchestra in presenting J.S. Bach's Piano Concerto in D minor (BWV 1052) to close the first half and open the second with Franz Liszt's Malediction for Piano and Strings.

The orchestra will close the concert with Serenade for Strings, Op. 48 by Peter Ilyitch Tchaikovsky.

"Dan has selected an outstanding program for the concert," Goodall said. "These works are wonderful staples of the repertoire which are always enjoyed by audiences around the world."

Prior to the concert, Dr. Andrew Parr, SFA professor of piano, will give an informative talk on the program at 7 p.m. in Griffith Gallery, located across the hall from Turner Auditorium. Immediately following the concert, the audience is invited back to the gallery for a reception honoring the artists and the event's corporate sponsor, Lehmann Eye Center.

Turner Auditorium and Griffith Gallery are located in the Griffith Fine Arts Building, 2222 Alumni Dr.

Tickets to the concert range from $35 to $17.50, with discounts for seniors, students and youth. For tickets or more information, please visit www.finearts.sfasu.edu or call (936) 468-6407 or (888) 240-ARTS.