TAMIU Christmas Special 'Guitarras' Saturday

A musical Christmas Special is set for Saturday, December 11 at 7:30 p.m. at Texas A&M International University in the Center for the Fine and Performing Arts Recital Hall. This event is free and open to the public.

The music will reflect the season, with "Guitarras de Navidad" featuring the TAMIU Classical Guitar Ensemble, directed by Dr. Gilberto D. Soto, associate professor and chair of the Department for the Fine and Performing Arts.

Soto said the pieces being performed might be familiar to many.

"The Guitar Ensemble will perform Bach's 'Jesu, Joy of Man's Desiring,' and Beethoven's 'Moonlight Sonata.' We will also perform 'El Baile de Luis Alonso,' by Jerónimo Giménez and Vivaldi's 'Concerto in G' as well as Handel's 'Hallelujah Chorus' from 'Messiah,' closing with a very special Spanish arrangement of 'The Little Drummer Boy' and 'Greensleeves,' " said Soto.

In addition, Dr. Friedrich Gechter, associate professor, will be the piano soloist for George Gershwin's "Rhapsody in Blue." Dr. Michael Stone, assistant professor and director of bands, will direct the TAMIU Symphonic Wind Ensemble.

"This piece combines classical music with jazz elements and was written in 1924. Gershwin himself actually performed the piano solo when it premiered in New York," said Soto.

He said he hoped Laredo would join TAMIU in celebrating the season.

"Our beautiful campus provides a wonderful backdrop for the music we will present. We hope everyone can come and enjoy this free event and hear live music, stirringly played," said Soto.

For more information, please contact 326.2654 or visit offices in the Center for the Fine and Performing Arts, room 217.

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