Stephen F. Austin State University

NACOGDOCHES, TEXAS - The Stephen F. Austin State University Chamber Winds will present "Medieval Fare" at 7:30 p.m. Thursday, April 27, in W.M. Turner Auditorium. The concert will feature musical compositions either from or inspired by the medieval period.

The band will open the concert with Ron Nelson's "Medieval Suite," a three-movement work that highlights three medieval masters: Leonin, Perotin and Machaut, explained David W. Campo, SFA associate director of bands and the ensemble's conductor.

According to Nelson, the three movements are "neither transcriptions of (the masters') works nor an attempt at emulating their respective styles. Rather, their music served as a sort of launching pad for three pieces which draw on some of the stylistic characteristics of music from that period."

Kevin Whitelaw, graduate student from Grand Rapids, Mich., will conduct the band in Norman Dello Joio's "Variants on a Medieval Tune," which utilizes the melody "In dulci jubilo," a favorite of many composers throughout the ages, according to Campo.

The closing number on the program will be "Carmina Burana," featuring vocal soloists Kathryn Haney, Nacogdoches senior, and Steven McDonald, Lorena graduate student.

"From its original orchestral incarnation by Carl Orff in 1937, through its current setting for band by arranger John Krance, the music of the 12th century goliards of France has always enthralled listeners with its depiction of earthly pleasures," said Campo.

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

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