UIS Music program presents Spring Showcase Concert

WHAT: The music program at the University of Illinois Springfield invites members of the community, students, faculty, and staff to attend the Spring Showcase Concert, part of the “Wind, Fire, Gold, and Roses” series. The performance will feature the UIS Chorus, Band and Chamber Ensemble.

WHEN: Friday, April 27, 2012 at 7:30 p.m.

WHERE: Studio Theatre, located on the lower level of the UIS Public Affairs Center

DETAILS: The Spring Showcase will feature music from a variety of historical periods, countries, with many pieces inspired by nature’s elements. Highlights include Scottish and African-American inspired pieces, Hebrew melodies, Music from the Royal Fireworks, choir arrangements of modern pop songs, Southern Rags, and a Vivaldi Mass in which the UIS Choir and Chamber Ensemble will perform together.

The Chorus, under the direction of Melinda Pitt Kaye, will perform several works including “Jai Ho!” from Slumdog Millionaire and “You raise me up” by Josh Grobin.

Directed by Abigail Walsh, the Chamber Ensemble will perform selections including “Evening in Georgia” by Ippolitov- Ivanov and “Overture on Hebrew Themes, Op. 34” by Prokofiev. Finally, Walsh will lead the Band through selections including James Swearingen’s “A Scottish Portrait” as well as “Encanto” by Robert W. Smith.

The performance is free and open to the public. Refreshments will be served. Donations are welcome and will be used to benefit the UIS Music Student Merit Award, which will be presented at the Fall Showcase.

The UIS Music program began in 2001 and is comprised of students, faculty, staff and alumni, as well as Springfield community members, all with a variety of skill levels. Anyone who is interested in joining the UIS Chorus, Band or Chamber Ensemble may contact Sharon Graf by emailing music@uis.edu or calling 217/206-6240.