Piano ensemble to perform classics, ragtime

The internationally acclaimed Six Piano Ensemble will perform two concerts of popular, classical and ragtime selections this weekend at Oakton Community College in Des Plaines.

The program features the world premiere of "Oakton Toccata," written for the ensemble by composer Robert Vandall. The ensemble also will perform works by Mozart, Dvorak, Shostakovich, Scott Joplin and Francis Poulenc.

During the concert, six pianos will be on stage with the pianists directed by Glenna Spraigue, professor and coordinator of music at Oakton.

"The rich layered sound of the ensemble is comparable to that of an orchestra, with each member playing a different part of a composition as the melody transfers from pianist to pianist," Sprague wrote in an e-mail. "The group performs with brilliance and precision."

The group has a live recording available on CD and cassette by calling Sprague at (847) 635-1905.

If you go

What: Six Piano Ensemble

When: 8 p.m. Saturday and 3 p.m. Sunday

Where: Oakton Community College, 1600 E. Golf Road, Des Plaines

Reception: Follows each performance

Tickets: $12-$17

Call: (847) 635-1900