Texas A&M International University

LPO Series Ends with May 16 Performance

Noting the phenomenal success of the three concerts presented by the Laredo Philharmonic Orchestra in its series "Laredo Takes on the World," music director Brendan Townsend announced the series tour will end with the LPO's Sunday, May 16 concert at Texas A&M International University.

The final concert will take place at TAMIU's Center for the Fine and Performing Arts' Recital Hall at 4:00 p.m. Tickets are $20 general admission and $12 for seniors and can be purchased at both TAMIU and Laredo Community College business offices. Additional information is available 326-3039.

Director Townsend said response and feedback to the Series has been overwhelmingly positive.

"I have had such incredible feedback from audiences about the wonderful selection of music we have presented this year," Townsend said, "But with all that great music, we still hadn't had a chance to include many of the really great composers that are a vital part of the repertoire - people like Bach, Handel, Beethoven and Mozart. Our last performance of the series will provide that rich opportunity."

The growing audiences that have attended LPO concerts this year have been treated to music from all around the world - USA, Norway, Finland, England, Ireland, Russia, Italy, Bohemia, Slovakia, Austria, Spain and France. In the original program scheduled for May 16, the selections included works from South America and a performance of the "Streets of Laredo."

The May 16 program has now been revised to include what Townsend describes as special gems.

"This revised program will include some real gems of the early orchestral literature," said the energetic Irish conductor, "we realize what many people in the audience still wish to hear - so we have decided to give it to them."

Now the program will include the famous "Arrival of the Queen of Sheeba" by Handel, a Vivaldi guitar concerto, the extremely popular Brandenburg Concerto #3 of J.S. Bach, "Palladio" by Jenkens (better known as the soundtrack in the commercial for a famous diamond merchant), the hugely popular slow movement of the "Concierto de Aranjuez" by Rodrigo, and the famous "Haffner" Symphony of Mozart.

Additionally, audiences will still have an opportunity to hear the afternoon's scheduled soloist, Dr. Gilberto Soto. Soto, who leads the successful TAMIU Guitar Ensemble, has an impeccable reputation in Laredo for providing spirited and exquisite guitar performances.

"One thing we didn't want to change was the choice of soloist - Dr. Gilberto Soto," said Townsend, "I have been looking forward all year to working so closely with my colleague from the TAMIU department of Fine & Performing Arts at TAMIU."

The end of the season also signals an important and historic start for the LPO, Townsend noted enthusiastically.

The LPO will soon begin its 25th Silver Anniversary Season in 2004-2005 and aims to continue to serve as Los Dos Laredos' musical gateway to the future.

"We're looking at an exiciting and historic new season that will extend our desire to be the gateway to orchestral music for Los Dos Laredos. We'll be seeking partners to help us realize our mission, expand our audience and keep the joy of live music part of Laredo's expected quality of life," Townsend assured.

For additional information, contact Townsend at 326.3029.