By Rylie Harrison | Echo
The Marion Philharmonic Orchestra (MPO) returns to Taylor to kick off its newest concert series, entitled "Musical Postcards." This time, a few friends will also be performing with the ensemble.
The MPO promises a wide variety of musical styles in this concert, from classical to some more familiar Broadway tunes.
According to Professor Al Harrison, who has been with the Marion Philharmonic Orchestra for nearly 40 years, this first concert will feature old European themes in the first part, including a piece by Tchaikovsky.
"Then part two is more light-hearted, Broadway, popular music," Harrison said.
For the Broadway pieces, Taylor welcomes back alumnus Steve Amerson, also known as "America's Tenor." Amerson graduated from Taylor in 1976. He has recorded vocals for over 165 movies and television shows. He has also performed at the Grammy Awards and several Congressional events.
Amerson will be performing songs from musicals such as "Les Mis", "Man of La Mancha", "My Fair Lady" and more.
Not only will a past student be returning to Taylor, but a current student will also be performing alongside the orchestra. Violinist Hasun Yoo, a sophomore, will perform the first movement of Tchaikovsky's Concerto No. 1 in D Major. She won the Collegiate Division of Marion Philharmonic Orchestra's 27th Annual Concerto Aria Competition in 2016.
"Here's this incredible young person doing what very few people can do," said Professor Christopher Bade, who also plays for MPO. "Since this concert features one of our students, it would be really neat if we could get some student support, even if not for anybody else but for her."
Members of the MPO hope the wide range of musical pieces will attract a variety of audience members.
"No matter how old or young, I think that people will enjoy the program just because of the nature of it," Harrison said. "The concert will provide an enjoyable evening, a chance to dress up a bit, if you want to dress up… and to experience a cultural event on campus instead of having to drive to Indy or Fort Wayne or some place."
The performance will take place Oct. 20 at 7:30 p.m. in Rediger Chapel Auditorium. Tickets are $5 for students and $10 for adults with ID.
