On April 15, ECHOrchestra announced its upcoming spring concert, an enthusiastic expression of two beloved rhapsodies and new compositions, promising an unforgettable musical journey for audiences of all ages.

The program features Andrew Staupe, piano soloist, in a lively performance of “Rhapsody in Blue,” one of George Gershwin’s most famous works. The concert will take place at St. John Vianney Catholic Church, 625 Nottingham Oaks Trail, on Friday, May 16 at 7:30 p.m.

“This exciting program will capture the true rhapsody of spring and showcase the exceptional talent and versatility of ECHOrchestra’s musical community,” said Kelli Soika, ECHO’s Interim Executive Director.

The program also features the World Premier of a new work by Mark Buller, ECHO’s Composer-in-Residence. This piece is a musical retelling of the final moments in Ulysses by James Joyce when the protagonist’s love resolves. The orchestra also will perform P i Hungarian Rhapsody by Franz Liszt to conclude this exploration of musical rhapsodies.

The youth concerto competition winner, Vanae Schunk will perform the 1st movement of the Barber Violin Concerto and the orchestra will perform a World Premiere composed by the winner of ECHO’s Young Composer Competition, Caleb Mayberry.

"We are ecstatic to bring the magic of music to our community this May," says Michael Fahey, Artistic Director of ECHOrchestra. "This concert is a celebration of our shared love for music and our commitment to making art accessible to everyone. We invite everyone to join us and experience the joy of live performance."

Tickets may be purchased online at www.echorchestra.org/tickets. General admission is $25, seniors 65+ and first responders $15, student tickets are $10 with ID, and children 12 and under are free.

ECHO Summer Camp

As ECHO continues its commitment to youth education throughout the year, the organization will host its third Summer Strings Camp for Middle School Students at Lanier Middle School, 2600 Woodhead in Houston, from June 16 to 20. The faculty includes ECHO musicians as well as Houston-area educators. Spaces are still available and more information about the camp and registration is available at www.echorchestra.org/summercamp.

About the Energy Corridor of Houston Orchestra

ECHO is a musical organization dedicated to the enhanced appreciation and understanding of orchestral music within the Energy Corridor of Houston, Texas and the surrounding communities. ECHO seeks to share musical and arts experiences through concerts, private events, and educational programs that will strengthen the community.