Northwest Festival Orchestra to perform gala holiday concert
The Northwest Festival Orchestra, under the direction of Dr. Verne Schwager, will present its holiday concert for 2018 at 7:30 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 11, in the Performing Arts Center at Harper College, 1200 W. Algonquin Road, Palatine.
Tickets are $35 for adults, $25 seniors, and $20 students. Schwager and the orchestra will perform accompanied by two soloists, Lindsey Baer, mezzo-soprano, and Kristin Johnston, soprano.
The ensemble will perform a selection of holiday favorites, including "Nutcracker" (excerpts); "Sleigh Ride" by three composers, Leroy Anderson, W.A. Mozart, and Sergei Prokofieff; vocal selections by Delibes and Humperdinck, including "Hansel and Gretel."
The program also features seasonal selections - both religious and secular. There will be the usual "surprises" from the maestro.
The Northwest Festival Orchestra comprises younger professional musicians who share a common passion for creating and sharing music at the highest level. The ensemble's programs are devoted to both classical and contemporary repertoire spanning the orchestral spectrum, and also frequently include opera/operetta excerpts, as well as music from the American Musical Theater.
The orchestra's style and musical integrity are chiefly characterized by a string section known for its warmth and virtuosity, crafted under the leadership of a seasoned conductor.
This now-annual concert represents a quality alternative to similar events downtown.
For details, email festorch@aol.com or call (847) 392-9003, or visit www.northwestfestivalorchestra.org.