Stephen F. Austin State University

NACOGDOCHES, TEXAS - Harmonie, a new student chamber ensemble at Stephen F. Austin State University, will present its inaugural concert at 7:30 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 20, in Cole Concert Hall on the SFA campus.

The term "harmonie" was used in 18th and 19th century Germany and France to describe a small orchestra of wind instruments, usually oboes, bassoons, clarinets, horns and sometimes flutes, explained Fred J. Allen, SFA director of bands and the group's conductor.

The 10-member ensemble was formed this summer by two SFA students, graduate hornist Weston Fisher and senior oboist Jason Paschall. They organized Monday night rehearsals and invited Allen to be the conductor.

"The time these students rehearsed was given because of their love for music. They are all top-level players who wanted an outlet for playing their instruments during the summer," Allen said.

Each musician is also a member of one or more other ensembles within the SFA School of Music.

"Harmonie, however, does not meet for credit," Allen explained. "It is simply an enhancement to the other musical experiences the students are having at SFA."

The concert's program includes works by Gaetano Donizetti, Ludwig von Beethoven and Arthur Bird.

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 call (936) 468-6407 or (888) 240-ARTS.