Senior Suburban Orchestra celebrates Johann Strauss II at holiday concert

The Senior Suburban Orchestra, now in its 26th season, invites you to the “Family and Friends Holiday Concert” on Saturday, Dec. 13.

The concert will begin at 2 p.m. in the sanctuary of Woodridge United Methodist Church, 2700 75th St. in Woodridge.

The concert will celebrate the 200th anniversary of the birth of Austrian composer Johann Strauss II with selections including the “Tritsch-Tratsch” (Chit-Chat) Polka, Op.214 (1858); “Lob der Frauen” (In Praise of Women) Polka Mazurka, op. 315 (1867); and “Die Fledermaus” Overture (1874).

In addition, the concert will include the vocal duet “No Two People” by 20th-century Broadway composer Frank Loesser in memory of Senior Suburban Orchestra member Ron Baumgartner who arranged it and many other pieces for the orchestra, and seasonal music including “Christmas Music For Orchestra”; “Light the Candles!”; sing-along holiday favorites; and Leroy Anderson’s holiday classic “Sleigh Ride.”

The orchestra’s conductor, Dan Pasquale D’Andrea, has been with the Senior Suburban Orchestra since its beginning in 2000, and has helped develop the orchestra into an award-winning 40-plus piece performing organization. It presents up to 15 concerts per year for venues such as retirement homes, schools, and community organizations.

Although there is no charge for the concert, donations are appreciated. Light refreshments will be served after the concert.

More information about the Senior Suburban Orchestra can be found on its website, seniorsuburbanorchestra.org.