"Singin' at the U" Event Set Saturday at A&M International

Enthusiasts of the chorale tradition will find "Singin' at the U," a musical event planned at Texas A&M International University Saturday, April 24 at 8 p.m., a fun night out.

The third in a continuing series of musical University benefits will help fund the university's growing chorale program. Admission will be $15 for adults and $5 for students. Tickets are available from members in advance and at the door.

Combining talents for the evening performance will be the Laredo Philharmonic Chorale (LPC), Texas A&M International University Chorale, V.M.T. Magnet School Choir, Martin High School Choir, Nixon High School Choir, United High School Choir, Alexander High School Choir and the Cigarroa High School Choir.

Fritz Gechter, assistant professor of music at A&M International and the event's pianist, will be joined in the effort by Billy Wayne Craven, conductor of the LPC; Paul Foster, percussion; Bill Normandan, bass and Ric Cortez, guitar.

Gechter said the developing the collaborative effort has been most fulfilling.

"Billy Craven, Paul Foster, Ric Cortez and Bill Normandan have been tremendously helpful in this initiative and I believe it's one of the most fulfilling music undertakings we've all shared," Gechter said.

He noted he has been impressed with all participants in this collaborative effort, but singled out the efforts of high school chorale directors.

Saturday's performance will provide a rich musical program that embraces the diversity of chorale music, Gechter said.

"We'll have everything from the Broadway melodies of "West Side Story" and "Chess, " and the familiar strains of Gershwin's "Rhapsody in Blue" to romantic ballads like "When I Fall in Love" and the orchestral rock of "Bohemian Rhapsody," he explained.

For further information, please contact the Office of Public Affairs and Information Services at 326-2180.

University office hours are 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. Monday through Friday.

Journalists who need additional information or help with media requests and interviews should contact the Office of Public Affairs and Information Services at pais@tamiu.edu