FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Nov. 8, 2004 - Sylvia Bierschenk

SFA Chamber Orchestra presents concert

NACOGDOCHES, TEXAS - Music by Joseph Haydn, Maurice Ravel and Gustav Holst will be performed by the Stephen F. Austin State University Chamber Orchestra at 7:30 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 16, in Cole Concert Hall.

Jeff Jacobsen, SFA assistant professor of music, directs the orchestra, which focuses on smaller chamber ensemble and string works form the Baroque to the present.

Included on the program is Haydn’s “Symphony No. 82,” which Jacobsen calls a “playful work.” The piece acquired its nickname “The Bear” from the drone basses, a bagpipe effect, in the dance-like final movement, according to Jacobsen.

The Chamber Orchestra will also present Holsts’ “Brook Green Suite.” The suite was written in 1933 for the composer’s students at St. Paul’s School and first performed in 1934, two months prior to Holst’s death.

“The suite intertwines folk and dance tunes with splashes of modal harmony, all in a completely melodic and approachable style,” Jacobsen said.

The third piece included on the program is Ravel’s “The Tomb of Couperin,” which commemorates François Couperin, a 17th century composer. The piece’s four movements are built along the lines of a French dance suite of Couperin’s era.

The concert is a joint presentation of the SFA College of Fine Arts and the Department of Music.

Tickets are $5 for adults, $4 for seniors and $2 for students. For tickets or more information, log on to www.finearts.sfasu.edu or call (936) 468-6407 or (888) 240-ARTS.