'Gathering Together' orchestra concert set for Monday

Friday, November 19, 2010

GREENCASTLE -- The DePauw University Orchestra will present a musical program aptly titled "Gathering Together" on Monday just before the Thanksgiving holiday.

The concert will begin at 7:30 p.m. in the Green Center for the Performing Arts in Kresge Auditorium. The uncommon concert hour -- which is free and open to all -- will provide a study break for students and allow for a bit of retrospection about events surrounding this time of year.



"The rhythm of the academic year is so ingrained in our lives regardless of our occupation, and time and again we observe students moving away from habits of rigorous study to focusing on time to be spent with family and friends," Orcenith Smith, conductor of the orchestra, said. "This behavior begins at the Thanksgiving break and continues through the duration of the holiday season. Time around loved ones is often emotional and reflective; music is a way of helping people connect with these feelings."

The concert will feature an adaptation of the Dutch hymn "We Gather Together," as well as host a percussion improvisation over Native American Indian chants. Ottorino Respighi's "The Pines of Rome," and a new musical work by Dean Marshall, "Calypso Jam," will also be on the program.



"Each work represents a meaningful reflection on gathering; the Dutch hymn We Gather Together begins rather abstractly and grows until voices gather together forming a hymn of request," Smith said. "Thanksgiving is built upon our strong connection with American Indians and we celebrate this in a unique interpretation of native rhythms by our percussion section."



"Calypso Jam" is a new piece of music written by Marshall, a music educator. Marshall and his Canadian ensemble, Barrage, have energized string programs throughout North America by emphasizing the sheer joy of musicians getting together and making music together.

Closing the concert is the colorful work by Respighi titled "The Pines of Rome." This piece points to nature areas around Rome, evoking the spirit of people gathering amongst old pine trees.

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