The WVU School of Music’s Symphony Orchestra will offer a free performance Nov. 20 at 7:30 p.m. and the WVU Choirs will present “To Light: A Holiday Concert” Dec. 3 at 7:30 p.m., both in the Lyell B. Clay Concert Theatre at the WVU Canady Creative Arts Center. Then, on Dec. 7 at 4:30 p.m., the “Pride of West Virginia” Mountaineer Marching Band will perform its annual Keynotes Concert at the Hope Coliseum.
“Today’s technology provides instant access to a variety of music on our watches, phones and computers. However, nothing can replace the magic of live performance,” said Scott Tobias, the Director of Bands. “The WVU School of Music is home to outstanding performing ensembles that present free concerts throughout the year. I encourage everyone to find time to join us for one of these performances to experience the thrill of hearing music performed live and in person.”
As Thanksgiving approaches, join the WVU Symphony Orchestra on Nov. 20 for a night of exhilarating music. The evening will feature arrangements of Emmanuel Chabrier’s “España,” Antonín Dvořák’s “Symphony No. 8” and Dmitri Shostakovich’s “Violin Concerto No.1, III-IV” with Young Artist Competition winner Samantha Wolf.
This event is free and open to the public, but those unable to come in person can watch the livestream of the concert beginning at 7:30 p.m.
After Thanksgiving, join the WVU Choirs for “To Light: A Holiday Concert” on Dec. 3.
“Our concert, titled ‘To Light,’ aims to celebrate the light this time of year in the physical beauty of sun glistening on snow, the warm glow of holiday lights, and in the heart of humanity as we celebrate the season,” said Natalie Shaffer, Visiting Coordinator of Choral Activities.
Performing groups include the treble choir, Mountaineer Singers; tenor/bass choir, Mountaineer Chorus; Chamber Singers; and the WVU Community Choir.
Listeners will be treated to classic carols and contemporary holiday songs, including “O Holy Night,” “Carol of the Bells,” “Child of Peace,” “Jingle Bells” and “Winter Sun.”
“As is tradition, the audience will be invited to sing along with familiar carols and secular holiday favorites,” said Shaffer. “We hope to see you there.”
Ticket prices range from $5 for children to $10 for adults and can be purchased online at go.wvu.edu/choirs. The holiday fun starts at 7:30 p.m.
On Dec. 7, the Mountaineer Marching Band will give a special performance at the Hope Coliseum. Join the Pride of West Virginia for its annual Keynotes Concert at 4:30 p.m.
Even though the band won’t have the space for its famous marching patterns, the Keynotes Concert promises to be just as lively as any halftime show, with game-time favorite tunes, choreography by the baton and flag twirlers and special performances by each instrument section.
Adult tickets are $10, children’s tickets are $5 and groups of 10 or more can get tickets for $3 each. Purchase them online at go.wvu.edu/keynotes or at the door. Attendees are asked to enter through the Gold Gate.
For more information about the WVU School of Music and upcoming events, visit music.wvu.edu and follow @WVUSchoolofMusic on social media.