From Mendelssohn to the Muppets: Fairfield University Orchestra performs "Classical Meets Pops" concert | Press Releases

7:30 p.m., Friday, April 27, 2012
Gonzaga Auditorium, Fairfield University
Free Admission

Image: Fairfield University Orchestra With a program ranging from Mendelssohn and Mozart to the Muppets The Fairfield University Orchestra has something for everyone, in its "Classical Meets Pops" performance at 7:30 p.m., Friday, April 27, 2012 , at Fairfield University's Gonzaga Auditorium . Music from a classic Broadway musical and even the soundtrack from an enormously popular MMORPG (massively multiplayer online role-playing game) are also on the evening's diverse program. Admission is free.

The Fairfield University Orchestra is made up of Fairfield University students, alumnae, and members of the community. Conducting is Jamie Ratcliffe, who leads the orchestra, and who received her MM in conducting from the University of Oregon where she participated in the prestigious Bach Festival.

The program features the following works:

Orchestral Suite in D major, BWV 1068, by J.S. Bach . Arguably the best and one of the most prolific composers of all time, J. S. Bach is famous for his technically difficult and expressive works.

Three German Dances , K. 605, Nos. 1 and 2, by W.A. Mozart . Mozart would often compose for the court of the aristocracy where he was employed. During this time, a lot of music was still considered "background" music to social activity. It is likely that simple dances, such as these two, would have fit into this category.

Fingal's Cave Overture (Hebrides), op. 26, by Felix Mendelssohn. From the time he was a child, Mendelssohn was fascinated with and inspired by fairytales. This overture, which was inspired by Celtic mythology, is a perfect example. The Hebrides is an archipelago just off of the coast of Scotland, and Fingal's Cave actually exists.

The Muppet Medley, Arranged by Bruce Chase. As we enter into the magical world of the Muppets, we are reminded that this fun group of performers is all about excitement and energy. Audience members will find themselves "Movin' Right Along" to the beat. Tonight is a special treat, with Kermit himself gracing the stage with his banjo playing forte.

Selections from The King and I , by Oscar Hammerstein II and Richard Rodgers, arranged by Bob Lowden . The medley includes "I Whistle A Happy Tune," "March of the Siamese Children," "Getting to Know You," and "Shall We Dance."

World Of Warcraft, featuring "Wrath of the Litch King," "Lament of the Highborne." and "Lion's Pride" by Russell Brower, Derek Duke and Jason Hayes, arranged by Jerry Brubaker . Students often become interested in music from movies they enjoy and even from online video games they play, like "World of Warcraft," the enormously popular MMORPG (massively multiplayer online role-playing game). Although this music is modern, it is clearly inspired either directly or indirectly by famous classical works. World of Warcraft is complex music that is exciting to both orchestra members and the audience.

Gonzaga Auditorium is located in Gonzaga Hall on the campus of Fairfield University at 1073 North Benson Road in Fairfield, Connecticut. For further information and directions, call (203) 254-4010 or 1-877-278-7396.