Laredo Philharmonic Orchestra’s First Concert for the Season Oct. 9

With the memory of recent hurricanes and tragedy fresh in peoples’ minds, the theme of concert on Sunday, October 9 at 4 p.m. in the Texas A&M International University Center for the Fine and Performing Arts Recital Hall, “Music and the Human Spirit” seems particularly appropriate.

Tickets for each concert are available at the door, at various Wells Fargo branches and the business offices at TAMIU and LCC. Season passes are also available.

“Music has always been a source of unity and strength for people,” said Brendan Townsend, music director of the Laredo Philharmonic Orchestra, “Whether we are singing ‘Las Mañanitas’ or the ‘Ode to Joy’ we use music to celebrate and console.”

The musical selections chosen to reflect the theme of “Music and the Human Spirit” include Samuel Barber’s “Adagio for Strings” which Townsend describes as the “National Anthem of Mourning” having been heard by millions at the funerals of President’s Roosevelt and Kennedy and countless other solemn occasions.

This is followed by Malcolm Arnold’s “Peterloo” Overture which describes the events of a historic meeting on political reform which turned tragic when the cavalry charged on the peaceful crowd.

“But out of that event came a movement towards change so typical of human nature,” explained Townsend, “This music sums it all up – and ends with a great tune of hope.”

The final piece is perhaps the musical symbol of human unity: Beethoven’s Symphony No. 9 in D min, better known to many as the “Ode to Joy.”

Joining with the Philharmonic Orchestra for this performance of Beethoven’s masterwork will be the Laredo Philharmonic Chorale, the United High School Choir, and four talented young soloists from around the country.

Tickets for each concert are available at the door, at various Wells Fargo branches and the business offices at TAMIU and LCC. Tickets for adults are $20; seniors pay $12 and TAMIU and LCC students are admitted free with a student ID. Season passes are also available for $85; season tickets for seniors are $60.

For more information, please contact Townsend at 326.3039 or 721.5330 or e-mail btownsend@tamiu.edu.

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