“AMERICAN RHAPSODY”

On Saturday, November 2, the Immaculata Symphony will hold its fall concert, American Rhapsody in Alumnae Hall at 7:30 p.m. The Immaculata Symphony is a university-community organization, with a long and outstanding tradition that goes back to the University’s founding in 1920.

Under the direction of Joseph Gehring, M.M., music director, three American composers will be featured in the fall concert. The famous Rhapsody in Blue, by George Gershwin, will be performed by Dr. William Carr, Steinway Artist and chair of Immaculata’s music department. The concert begins with music from the American opera Merry Mount by Howard Hanson, which will be conducted by Immaculata Symphony assistant conductor, Mark Cellini. Rounding out the program is Symphony No. 1 in A-flat, “Afro-American,” completed in 1930 by William Grant Still, the first African American to compose a symphony that was performed by a prominent orchestra. Fans of jazz, blues and classical styles will enjoy this concert.

Gehring is an associate faculty member and director of ensembles for Immaculata’s music department. He has directed the Immaculata Symphony since 2004, and is an active conductor, pianist, and educator. He is the conductor of the West Chester Band and Chesco Pops Orchestra, and is a frequent guest conductor of various honor/festival bands and orchestras throughout Pennsylvania and Delaware.

Cost for the concert is $15 for general admission, $12 for senior citizens, $8 for students, and free for children under the age of 12. Tickets are available for sale on the night of the event, and online at www.immaculatasymphony.org.