Contact: Maridith Geuder
A Nov. 18 public concert by several MSU ensembles will feature a variety of musical styles and highlight a number of patriotic tunes.
The 7:30 p.m. presentation in Lee Hall auditorium will feature the Famous Maroon Band, Wind Ensemble, Concert Choir, Chamber Singers, and the newly formed Men of Maroon and White. The bands are directed by Elva Kaye Lance; the choral groups, by Bruce Lesley.
Titled "Extravaganza," the free event will include such numbers as "America the Beautiful" by the Wind Ensemble, as well as combined bands and chorus on "A Salute to the Armed Forces" and "Battle Hymn of the Republic."
The Famous Maroon Band also will perform "A Movement for Rosa," a musical salute to the life of civil rights pioneer Rosa Parks composed by Mark Camphouse.
Vocal pieces include spirituals, classical and pop music, ranging from "Didn't My Lord Deliver" to "Twelfth Street Rag."
The Famous Maroon Band, MSU's largest musical group, includes 250 members selected by audition. The smaller Wind Ensemble, also selected by audition, includes some of MSU's most advanced student instrumentalists.
The 80-voice Concert Choir is open to any MSU student by audition. The smaller Chamber Choir includes 28 voices, and approximately a dozen voices make up the Men of Maroon and White.
For more information about the event, telephone the music education department at 662-325-3070.