Orchestra to provide preview in new recital hall

Fans of the Southeast Missouri Symphony Orchestra -- and those who are just curious -- can get a free sneak peek at the orchestra's upcoming 2007-2008 season Sunday.

A pared-down orchestra ensemble of about 40 musicians will present two short programs -- one at 2 p.m. and another at 3 p.m. -- Sunday in the Shuck Recital Hall at the Southeast Missouri State University River Campus. Each performance will last about 30 to 35 minutes, said orchestra director Dr. Sara Edgerton, and will include parts of compositions from all five of the coming season's concerts. The first concert is scheduled for Nov. 6 in the Bedell Performance Hall. Cape Girardeau native and acclaimed violinist Liesl Schoenberger will be the featured guest performer in the concert, called "Sensational Sounds."

Other concerts are:

• Dec. 7 and 8 performances of Haydn's "Symphony No. 104" and Handel's "Messiah" -- the latter a team effort with the University Choir and Choral Union;
• A March 4 performance of Saint-Saens' "Carnival of the Animals"
• An April 29 concert featuring the university student winners of the Concerto and Aria Competition.

The Saint Louis Symphony Orchestra will also perform in concert at the Bedell on April 13.

Edgerton said Sunday's two performances are part of the university's Family Weekend activities, and are scheduled to accommodate more people's schedules.

"It's the same program, but the seating is a little bit limited in the Shuck, and we wanted to make sure we wouldn't turn anyone away," Edgerton said.

Edgerton said the River Campus box office will also be open for those interested in purchasing tickets.

msanders@semissourian.com

335-6611, extension 182