by Johnny Hagerman
Staff Writer
Whether your musical taste craves classical Cello Quartets or the traditional sounds from the Caribbean, the Department of Music’s Fall Concert Series has an eclectic menu of musical experiences for many different types of musical appetites.
In the past, the majority of musical performances took place in the spring because students and faculty have had the first part of the year to prepare and acclimate themselves to their academic surroundings. But Steve Biondo, the new Music Department assistant, coordinated the Fall Series with outside musicians, performers, University instructors, and students to incorporate the musical program into student life earlier in the year, with the intention of increasing campus interest in the arts.
“My goal is to get people interested in the musical talent that exists on this campus,” said Biondo.
Starting yesterday, the concert series began with a performance in classical guitar and soprano. Dave Cahueque, a professional guitarist from Pomona College, accompanied Ursula Kleinecke a professional soprano.
On Oct. 1 in Dailey Theatre, the series shifts to a much different flavor with a performance by “The Trinidad Steel Drum Band,” a musical group originated in South Central Los Angeles. This will be a unique cultural experience for students and faculty, because after the performance of traditional steel drum music from the Caribbean, an informative discussion on the origins and traditions of their unique brand of sound will be held.
Later in October, on Saturday, the 24th, at 8:15 p.m., Michael Ryan will conduct an evening of Classical Guitar and Renaissance songs in the Dailey Theatre. Ryan is a professional musician and ULV music instructor.
Keeping with the classical venue, Quatracelli, a cello quartet from Claremont McKenna College will perform in Founders Auditorium on Friday, Nov. 13, at 7:30 p.m.
Dec. 3 and 4, ULV students debut their musical talents with a student recital and jazz concert. On the Thursday, the 3rd in the ULV Chapel, a student recital will be conducted. Then on Friday, the ULV Jazz Band will perform with Anthony Fesmire in Founders Auditorium.
The season’s largest production will take place on Saturday, Dec. 12, at 7:30 p.m in Founders Auditorium. The large production will feature the University of La Verne Chorale and Chamber Singers with conductor Alan Raines.
Expanding cultural horizons with a variety of music, the Fall Concert Series promises to display exceptional entertainment and inspiring talent to a diverse audience within the University community.
“We’re trying to step it up a notch,”said Biondo. “We have some great musicians at this school, both students and faculty. Hopefully, this series will attract more people to appreciate their music.”
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