Woodwind instruments featured in March 19 Elgin Symphony Orchestra concert

On Sunday, March 19, the Elgin Symphony Orchestra will showcase the music of woodwind instruments in a concert at the First United Methodist Church in Elgin. The concert, conducted by Wilbur Lin, will include "Octet" by Reinecke, "Petite symphonie" by Gounod, and "Serenade for Winds" by Dvorák.

Lin is the assistant professor of conducting at Northern Illinois University and music director designate for the Missouri Symphony.

"This is a great opportunity to better experience and understand the diversity of the woodwind section in an intimate setting," said Eric Gaston-Falk, vice president of artistic planning and operations at the ESO.

As Lin explains, "The first half of the concert presents two iconic works of two slightly different genres. Reinecke's 'Octet' is composed for the flute, oboe, two clarinets, two bassoons, and two horns. This piece shows off the virtuosity of this group of soloists. Following up Reinecke is Gounod's 'Petite symphonie.' As the title implies … it is a miniature symphony. It only has one additional oboist compared to the Reinecke, but the sound becomes so much more orchestral."

The second half of the concert features work that pays homage to music that can trace its roots to Medieval times.

Dvorák's "Serenade for Winds" is an instrumental serenade that includes a cellist and a double bassist in addition to oboes, clarinets, and bassoons.

The concert will begin at 2:30 p.m. at the church, 216 E. Highland Ave. in downtown Elgin.

Tickets are $20. Student tickets are $5. Youth age 17 and under are free with an accompanying adult. Tickets can be purchased on the ESO's website, www.ElginSymphony.org, and, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Tuesday through Friday, by calling its box office at (847) 888-4000.