UIS Chamber Orchestra to present Early 20th Century Dance Music Program

WHAT: The UIS Chamber Orchestra will perform turn-of-the-century dance orchestra music from the John Robichaux collection.

WHEN: Saturday, May 1, 2010 from 6-9 p.m.

WHERE: Dana-Thomas House, 301 E. Lawrence Avenue, Springfield, IL 62703

DETAILS: Robichaux established himself as the premiere dance orchestra leader in New Orleans, from 1891 into the 1930’s. The John Robichaux Orchestra was active at the time of early jazz in New Orleans.

UIS Chamber Orchestra director Todd Cranson also directs the UIS Bands and serves as the Artistic Director of the Vintage Brass Band in Springfield, IL. His interest in 19th century American band music and the Creole Romantic composers of New Orleans sparked the idea to perform dance music from the Robichaux collection at Springfield’s Dana-Thomas House which was built in 1904. According to Cranson, “this event will allow our community a special opportunity to experience an exquisite intermingling of music, dance, architecture, and history.”

The UIS Chamber Orchestra is open to students, staff, faculty, and local community musicians. For information about getting involved, e-mail music@uis.edu and visit uis.edu/music.

Deborah Hyland of St. Louis will offer period dance lessons during the evening, so that the music may be enjoyed as it was originally intended. Hyland is a folk dance educator, who has taught dance to a wide range of audiences in the St. Louis area and beyond since 1991.

Admission of $5 per person at the door; includes music, dance lessons and refreshments. No advance reservations required. Lawn chairs welcome if the evening weather is pleasant.