OC’s Symphonic Band and Chamber Orchestra to perform together again April 14

The show will be performed in Judd Theater at 7:30 p.m.

Oklahoma Christian University invites the community to a free evening of music April 14 featuring both its Symphonic Band and Chamber Orchestra. This will be the second combined concert for the groups this semester, after many enjoyed the first performance in March. The concert begins at 7:30 p.m. in Judd Theater.

The Symphonic Band is directed by Assistant Professor of Music George Schrader, who is also the Director of Bands at OC. He teaches several undergraduate courses such as: music history, music appreciation and instrumental methods.

The Chamber Orchestra is directed by OC alumna Gena Alexander. She is also an adjunct violin professor at OC.

The show will consist of members from both the orchestra and the symphonic band. The two bands will perform works by Norman Dello Joio, Carol Brittin Chambers, Aaron Copland, Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart and more. 

Schrader believes many members of the audience will be familiar with the piece from Aaron Copland called “The Promise of Living.”

“The melody from this work (from his opera called “The Tender Land”) has often been used in church hymns,” Schrader said.

Together, the OC Symphonic Band and Chamber Orchestra will perform an arrangement of the overture from “The Magic Flute” by Mozart.

At the previous concert in March, cellist Lily Blanchard conducted the orchestra in Tchaikovsky’s Serenade in C. This was a sneak peak for the full serenade that will be performed at the concert on April 14. 

A special performance will also be performed by trombone player Spencer Banister. He is an undergraduate Music Education major who is known at OC for his musical talents. He will be a featured soloist and perform on the piece “Blue Bells of Scotland” by Arthur Pryot. The ensemble will perform in the background.

Schrader commented on Banister and how enthusiastic he is to showcase him.

“Spencer recently completed his senior recital requirement, and this piece was featured in that performance as well (accompanied on piano),” Schrader said. “We are excited to perform with him, both here at OC and on tour in Omaha, Nebraska, this weekend, at his home church.” 

At the end of the performance, each of the graduating seniors will be acknowledged as they enter this next chapter in the professional world or graduate school. OC is proud of the musician's dedication and talent, anticipating a special night 

Directions to the performance venue can be found here.