SFA Wind Ensemble to present 'The Music of Michael Daugherty'

World-renowned composer Michael Daugherty will be present for the SFA Wind Ensemble's concert, "The Music of Michael Daugherty," at 7:30 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 19, in W.M. Turner Auditorium as part of the SFA College of Fine Arts' University Series.

NACOGDOCHES, TEXAS - The music of one of America's most frequently heard living composers will fill W.M. Turner Auditorium as the SFA Wind Ensemble performs "The Music of Michael Daugherty" at 7:30 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 19. The concert is a part of the Stephen F. Austin State University College of Fine Arts' 2010-2011 University Series.

"Daugherty is known throughout concert halls for his opera 'Jackie O' and for his music for symphony orchestra and bands," said Fred J. Allen, SFA director of bands and the Wind Ensemble's conductor. "We are excited about his visit to campus so that the students can meet the person who wrote the music we will be performing."

The concert will open with "Asclepius," Daugherty's fanfare for brass and percussion, which will be conducted by David W. Campo, SFA associate director of bands.

John L. Whitwell, who was SFA director of bands from 1987 to 1993, will guest conduct Daugherty's "Desi."

"Whitwell commissioned the piece 20 years ago for SFA to perform at a national convention of the College of Band Directors National Association, so it is appropriate for him to return for this anniversary performance," Allen said.

Daugherty's "Brooklyn Bridge" for clarinet and band will highlight the second half of the concert. Soloist will be Dr. Christopher Ayer, SFA professor of clarinet. The band will also perform works by Percy Grainger and Etienne Mehul.

The concert is a joint presentation of the SFA College of Fine Arts and School of Music.

Prior to the concert, Daugherty will speak about his music at 7 p.m. in Griffith Gallery, located across the hall from Turner Auditorium. The audience is invited back to the gallery after the concert for a reception welcoming Daugherty and Whitwell and honoring the event's corporate sponsor, Point A Media.

Tickets are $18 for adults, $12 for seniors and $6 for students. For tickets or more information, please go to www.finearts.sfasu.edu or call (936) 468-6407 or (888) 240-ARTS.