The University of Mary Washington Philharmonic continues its 2017-18 season with a children’s Halloween concert on Friday, Oct. 27.
The annual Fiddlestix Instrument Petting Zoo has become a cherished community tradition. This year’s theme, Star Wars, will feature the opportunity for children to meet the instruments of the orchestra and then to hear a concert.
Children are encouraged to come in costume to UMW’s Dodd Auditorium for this free event. “The orchestra loves interacting with young people,” said Kevin Bartram, director of the UMW Philharmonic. “And this year, we are excited to perform the original film music of John Williams.”
Billed as a “Jedi Training Academy,” youngsters will learn the ‘way of the force’ by facing the trials of meeting the instrument of the orchestra, according to Bartram. Once they have fulfilled their training, they earn a final lesson in light sabre conducting with Maestro Bartram. Then the families will hear the full symphony orchestra perform the music from Star Wars and other Halloween favorites.
The Petting Zoo Academy begins at 6 p.m. and the concert is from 7:15 p.m. until 8 p.m. A children’s costume parade will end the evening. Admission is free, and no reservations are necessary.
The Philharmonic season will continue with its annual Holiday Pops concert, featuring the Irish Tenors performing songs from the best-selling album “We Three Kings” on Friday, Dec. 8. Tickets go on sale Monday, Oct. 30, for Friends of the Philharmonic and Monday, Nov. 6, for the general public.
For more information or to become a Friend of the Philharmonic, call 540-654-1324 or visit umwphilharmonic.com.