The instrumental ensembles of Austin College under the direction of Dr. Ricky Duhaime will present their annual spring concert, “An Evening of Chamber Music and Jazz,” on Monday, April 15, at 7:30 p.m. in Wynne Chapel at Austin College. The event is free and open to the public. For more information, contact the Music Department at Austin College at 903.813.2251.
This spring’s concert will consist of a first half devoted to the Austin College Chamber Orchestra, performing an Overture by Jean Berger and a suite of Old Dances and Airs by Ottorino Respighi, orchestrated for winds and strings by Duhaime.
The Chamber Orchestra is comprised of Austin College students, joined this semester by community members Greg Hendrix, Linda Milbourn, Jane Klausen, and Cathy Richardson. Students with majors and minors from across the disciplines of the College are represented in the group, with varying professional goals and a continuing interest in music.
The second half of the concert will feature the Greater Texoma Jazz Ensemble, performing a variety of big band charts in both traditional and contemporary styles, with soloists drawn from the group.
The Greater Texoma Jazz Ensemble consists of students, faculty, and other adults from throughout the region, with performance venues this semester at the Durant and Bells school systems in addition to Austin College. The concert this semester will feature jazz soloists Xavier Shubert and Chris Dickson, alto saxophones; Joseph Gaitlin, baritone saxophone; Jesse Speer and Chris Gregg, trombones; John Vietta, trumpet; John McGinn, piano; David Moore, guitar; and Richard Burleson, drums.
Duhaime, the Mildred S. Mosher Professor of Music at Austin College, has been a member of its Department of Music faculty since 1978.
Austin College, a private national liberal arts college located north of Dallas in Sherman, Texas, has earned a reputation for excellence in academic preparation, international study, pre-professional foundations, leadership development, committed faculty, and hands-on, adventurous learning opportunities. One of 40 schools profiled in Loren Pope’s influential book Colleges That Change Lives, Austin College boasts a welcoming community that embraces diversity and individuality, with 46 percent of students identifying as persons of color. The residential student body of approximately 1,300 students and more than 100 expert faculty members allow a 13:1 student-faculty ratio and personalized attention. This year, the campus recognizes 100 years of co-education and has had several opportunities to recognize the history of women and accomplishments of current alumnae. Austin College is related by covenant to the Presbyterian Church (USA) and cultivates an inclusive atmosphere that supports students’ faith journeys regardless of religious tradition. Founded in 1849, the College is the oldest institution of higher education in Texas operating under original name and charter.