“SAXOPHONE AND ORCHESTRA: A NIGHT OF 20TH CENTURY MUSIC”

COLUMBUS, GA, March 25, 2019 - The Columbus Symphony Orchestra (CSO) is pleased to present “Joe Girard Plays the Sax” on Saturday, April 13, 2019 in Legacy Hall at the RiverCenter for the Performing Arts. Columbus State University Schwob School of Music’s Assistant Professor of Saxophone, Dr. Joe Girard, will be featured in works by Glazunov and Ibert. You have not really heard the saxophone until you hear it played by Joe Girard, talented member of the Donald Sinta Saxophone Quartet (DSQ). Masterpieces by de Falla and Stravinsky complete the concert program. Dr. Joe Girard is a concert saxophonist who enjoys a rising career as a soloist, chamber musician, and educator. His solo and chamber performances have taken him around the country and across the globe, appearing as a soloist with the Reno Philharmonic, Dallas Winds, Columbus State University Philharmonic, University of Michigan Symphony Band, and the Paris Républican Guard Band, among others. As an active chamber musician, and tenor saxophonist of the DSQ, he received first prize at the 2013 Concert Artists Guild Victor Elmaleh Competition in New York City. As a result, DSQ presented their Carnegie Hall debut at Weill Recital Hall in November 2014. Dr. Girard received his Doctorate from Michigan State University where he served as a teaching assistant to Joseph Lulloff and was awarded a Dissertation Completion Fellowship. He completed his Master and Bachelor of Music at the University of Michigan under the tutelage of renowned saxophone pedagogue Donald Sinta. “Joe Girard Plays the Sax” is presented by TSYS, Circa Craft Cocktails, Uptown Wine & Spirits, WTVM, 103.7 LiteFM, and Boomer 102.5. Enhance the evening experience with an exclusive pre-concert event! On Saturday, April 13th, from 6:00 – 7:00 PM, prior to the concert, enjoy our Roaring 20s Party at Circa Craft Cocktails (across the street from the RiverCenter for the Performing Arts at 900 Front Ave. Columbus, GA 31901). Join us for some jazzy music, complimentary appetizers provided by Circa Craft Cocktails, and signature drinks provided by Uptown Wine & Spirits. Entrance to the party is FREE with your concert ticket. Visit csoga.org/preconcertevents or call Marketing Director Kristen Hudson at (706) 256-3645 for additional information. On Saturday, April 13th, we will have our Open Rehearsal beginning at 12:30 PM. We encourage attendance from all members of the community, including those who are unable to attend the evening concert

CONTACT: Kristen Hudson CSO Marketing

706.256.3645 (direct line) 706.323.7051 (fax)

Email: marketing@csoga.org Website: www.csoga.org

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

or looking for a “behind-the-scenes” look into the ensemble. It is a great way to introduce young children to a live musical experience in a sensory-friendly environment. Continuing the tradition, this informal and all-inclusive atmosphere is breaking the financial barrier by encouraging attendees to “pay what you want.” Audience members set their own prices to eliminate hesitation and allow new viewers to partake in the music being created by the CSO. Attend Know the Score at 6:30 PM in Studio Theatre. Know the Score is a casual pre-concert conversation with Music Director and Conductor George Del Gobbo that provides insight into the repertoire on the evening’s concert. Tickets are $35 for adults and $10 day-of rush tickets are available for students (ages 5 and up). They can be purchased at the RiverCenter Box Office, Monday through Friday, 10 AM to 5:30 PM or one hour prior to the performance (enter doors located on Broadway). For more information call the RiverCenter Box Office at 706.256.3612 or visit us online at www.csoga.org. The Columbus Symphony Orchestra, formed in 1855, is the second orchestra founded in the nation and the first founded in Georgia. The CSO, under the direction of George Del Gobbo, has long been considered one of the Southeast’s premier musical ensembles. The CSO’s performance venue at RiverCenter for the Performing Arts, Bill Heard Theatre, seats 2,000 patrons and provides a state-of-the-art visual and acoustic experience. For more information visit csoga.org or call (706) 256-3645.

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