Salem State Music Department Presents Spring Concerts at Salem High School

The Salem State Music Department is taking its large ensemble concerts on the road, presenting its spring concerts at Salem High School. Three separate concerts will take place showcasing the University Orchestra on April 20, the University Band on April 26, and the University Chorus and Chamber Singers on April 27. Each concert will begin at 7:30 pm at Salem High School at 77 Willson Street, with a $10 suggested donation to support scholarships for music students. 

Salem State music professor, Dr. Mary-Jo Grenfell leads a combined performance of Arabian Dances by Brian Balmages with the University Band and Salem High Wind Ensemble on April 26. The University Band  will present several pieces based on themes of movement, such as the tango and the march. The Salem High Wind Ensemble, under the direction of Cynthia Napierkowski, will also perform Four of A Kind by Jack Bullock. This jazz swing style piece features four high school trumpeters; Em Abboud, William Napierkowski, Eric Jordan and Andreas Bernal. "We are really excited for the opportunity to play with the Salem State concert band and to work with Dr. Grenfell and the Salem State students.” Napierkowski shared.

The combined University Chorus and Salem High School Chorus will perform Ad Astra. Meaning “to the stars”, Ad Astra was adopted as the state motto of Kansas in 1861 at the start of the Civil War. It continues as an homage to all those who have persevered through hard times. It is set in a sparkling choral arrangement by internationally-known composer and Kansas native, Jacob Naverud. University Chorus director, Lynn Shane will conduct. The Salem High Chorus is directed by Alexis MacTaylor. The University Chorus and chamber singers will offer several additional selections including a tribute to Stephen Sondheim.

The University Orchestra will perform a program showcasing “All Mozart, All the Time” including Overture to The Abduction from the Seraglio, Divertimento for Strings in F Major, K138 “Salzburg Symphony No. 3”, Serenade for Winds in C Minor, K388, and Symphony No. 31 in D Major, K297 “Paris”. Their performance is dedicated to the memory of Jim Dillon who played with the SSU Orchestra for several years. 

Admission to these concerts is free, with a suggested donation of $10 at the door to support scholarships for music majors.