Annual SSO Youth Concert is Saturday, October 17

Monday October 12, 2009

SALISBURY, MD---A composer has been killed, but who—or what instrument—is to blame?

Through a humorous murder mystery, the Salisbury Symphony Orchestra offers young and seasoned listeners an innovative and unique introduction to orchestral music during its annual Children’s Concert. “The Composer Is Dead” is performed 3 p.m. Saturday, October 17, in Holloway Hall Auditorium at Salisbury University. The Salisbury Youth Orchestra also performs.

First premiered by the San Francisco Symphony in 2006, the concert features a narrated story by famed San Francisco author Lemony Snicket and a score composed by Nathaniel Stookey.

“We’re looking forward to working with our narrator, Dr. Maarten Pereboom, dean of the Fulton School of Liberal Arts. This concert promises lots of fun,” said Dr. Jeffrey Schoyen, SSO conductor.

In the story, an unnamed inspector tries to solve a murder by searching the ranks of players for suspects or clues. The music features each of the instruments and sections.

According to the San Francisco Chronicle: “It’s funny, buoyant and engaging. ... ‘The Composer Is Dead’ isn’t just an introduction to the orchestra—it’s also a pitch for the joys of orchestral music.”

The one hour concert opens the SSO’s 2009-2010 season and marks its 24th year. Members of the Salisbury Youth Orchestra will perform at the beginning. The concert is made possible through the support of Dr. James M. Crouse, D.D.S., P.A., and the SU Alumni Association, Delmarva Chapter. Available at the door only, tickets are $10 for adults and free for children under 12 accompanied by an adult.

For more information, including season tickets to the SSO, call 410-548-5587 or visit the SU Web site at www.salisburysymphonyorchestra.org.