OC’s Symphonic Band and Chamber Orchestra to perform March 6
The Spring Concert will be in Judd Theater at 3 p.m.
The sounds of a symphony and an orchestra are considered some of the most beautiful and difficult-to-play music, so when the two styles are combined in one performance, audiences enjoy a truly unique experience. That is exactly what the Oklahoma Christian University community will have on March 6 when the Music Program performs its Spring Concert featuring the OC Symphonic Band and Chamber Orchestra. The concert will begin at 3 p.m. in Judd Theater.
George Schrader, director of bands at OC, is also the director of the Symphonic Band, and he teaches several undergraduate courses in music history, music appreciation and instrumental methods. The show is set in a traditional full orchestra band that involves members from both the orchestra and the symphony.
Schrader commented on the show.
“The symphony band portion will be entitled ‘Scenes’ as we explore different scenes depicted through music,” he said. “It includes a walk through The Louvre in Paris, through English lands through the use of folk songs, and a piece depicting a Japanese festival.”
Schrader welcomed working with the students once again after the long winter break.
“I love the process of working up a program over time, seeing their progress and growth as an ensemble, and then putting on the show for our audience,” Schrader said. “It’s a process that never gets old. It’s always a joy to share the stage with such a wonderful ensemble.”
OC’s Chamber Orchestra is directed by OC alumna Gena Alexander; however, cellist, Lily Blanchard, will direct the orchestra in Tchaikovsky’s “Serenade in C” for the first movement of the show.
“This will serve as a teaser for the OC Chamber Orchestra’s spring concert on April 14, where we will present the full “\’Serenade,’” Lily said. “Getting to rehearse and direct my colleagues is a humbling experience, and I am grateful to Mrs. Alexander and the orchestra for working with me.”
Symphonic Band clarinetist Samuel Movsisyan is looking forward to playing alongside his fellow band members and the Chamber Orchestra. Movsisyan is a sophomore and a band officer.
“There is certainly a strong camaraderie among the members of the band and the orchestra,” Movsisyan said. “We have performed together in the past several times–one example being last year’s Christmas concert.”
When asked about the show and any surprises for the audience, a violist from the Chamber Orchestra, Nicholas Drebot, wants students and others to attend to see for themselves.
“Well, I’m just looking forward to a good performance,” he said. “As far as surprises go, I guess you’ll have to attend the show to find out.”
The show is free and is open to the public.