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1812

Manchester Symphony Orchestra ends 80th season with an ‘1812’ bang


Manchester Symphony Orchestra 80The Manchester Symphony closes its 80th season with “1812” featuring Tchaikovsky’s rousing 1812 Overture.

The concert is 3 p.m. Sunday, May 5, in Cordier Auditorium. General admission is $15. It is free for students 18 and younger, and for Manchester University students, faculty and staff.

The program includes Vanhal’s Concerto for Two Bassoons in F major, featuring the symphony’s Erich Zummack and Freddie Lapierre. Special guest is mezzo-soprano Kelly Iler, a 2014 Manchester graduate.

There will be a ukulele performance at 2:30 p.m. by those who took part in the symphony’s outreach program at the North Manchester Public Library. Brian Kruschwitz taught free group lessons, made possible by a grant from Community Foundation of Wabash County. This performance will be in the Cordier Lobby or outside, depending on the weather.

After the concert, an instrument petting zoo will be in the lobby, courtesy of Quinlan & Fabish Music Co.

“1812” is sponsored by Fox Products, maker of fine double-reed instruments.

Returning patrons and new donors will be able to secure their 2019-2020 season memberships early at the concert by cash, check or credit card.

With about 6,000 residents, the northeast Indiana town of North Manchester is among the smallest communities in the nation with its own symphony orchestra. The symphony was founded in 1939 by Wabash County residents and what was then Manchester College. That partnership thrives today, with a carefully crafted collaboration of professional and community musicians, along with selected University faculty, staff and student musicians.

The symphony is under the direction of Dr. Scott Humphries, Manchester University instrumental studies and music education director.

The public is also welcome to attend the University Bands concert at 7:30 p.m. Friday, May 3, in Cordier. General admission is $5. Admission is free for Manchester students, faculty and staff.

“Fiesta” features the Symphonic Band and Jazz Ensemble conducted by Humphries, and the Percussion Ensemble conducted by Bruce Schneider. Guest conductor is Terry McKee, and student conductors are Mason McBride, Katrina Murray and Hailey Schneider.

For the media
Scott Humphries, Manchester University instrumental studies and music education director, CPHumphries@manchester.edu

About the symphony

About Manchester University

Manchester University, with campuses in North Manchester and Fort Wayne, Ind., offers more than 70 areas of academic study to more than 1,400 students in undergraduate programs, a Master of Science in Pharmacogenomics, a Master of Athletic Training a four-year professional Doctor of Pharmacy and a four-year dual degree in pharmacy and pharmacogenomics. Learn more about the private, northern Indiana school at www.manchester.edu . 

Our mission
Manchester University respects the infinite worth of every individual and graduates persons of ability and conviction who draw upon their education and faith to lead principled, productive, and compassionate lives that improve the human condition. 

April 2019