NACOGDOCHES, TEXAS - The SFA Friends of Music will accept reservations through noon Tuesday, April 15, for Extravaganza 27, the Stephen F. Austin State University School of Music's annual gala banquet. The event is scheduled for 6:30 p.m. Tuesday, April 22, in the Grand Ballroom of SFA's Baker Pattillo Student Center.
This year's Extravaganza, "Catch Our Rising Stars," celebrates the 27th anniversary of the gala and fundraiser, which features gourmet dining, performances by student soloists and ensembles, and the presentation of student awards. But this year's event has taken on a new and energized approach, according to Dr. Manny Brand, director of the SFA School of Music.
"This year's Extravaganza will be the culminating musical event of the year," Brand said. "No other concert has the musical variety and generates as much community and university excitement as Extravaganza."
Part music student awards ceremony, part formal dinner, and part musical potpourri, Extravaganza will feature jazz, harp, wind ensemble, choir, opera, string quartet, and orchestra. Additional highlights include awarding the "Outstanding Music Alumnus" of the year and "Outstanding Recitalists" of the year.
Popular trumpet professor Dr. Gary Wurtz will serve as this year's master of ceremonies assisted by Dr. A.C. "Buddy" Himes, dean of the College of Fine Arts, Dr Richard Berry, SFA provost and vice president of academic affairs, and Brand. Live dance music will follow for everyone to enjoy.
The Extravaganza 27 committee includes Habiba Awan, Caryl Hall, Carolyn King, Susie Lower, Gloria Settle, Shirley Watterson and co-chairs John and Melinda Rohrer.
"We are looking forward to the Extravaganza," said Melinda Rohrer. " We love SFA students and support their activities - from music to basketball."
This year's Friends of Music officers include Nancy Collins, president; Carrie Ventura, president-elect; Missy DeVine, secretary/treasurer; and Kenneth and Camille Price, past co-presidents.
Tickets are $40 for adults and $10 for students. Scholarship benefit tickets range in prices from $65 to $140, and donations will be accepted for the Friends of Music scholarship fund.
Axe ’Em, Jacks!