Concert season starts in September

Published 8:20 am Wednesday, August 26, 2009

COURTLAND—The Franklin-Southampton Concert Association starts its 32nd season in September with a lineup to be envied.

From the tenor who lifted the spirit of America during the 9-11 tragedies, to two musical groups, an Irish soloist, a musical trio and the Virginia Symphony, “there will be something for everyone,” said association president, Nancy Rowe.

Rowe said for those who have not yet purchased their season tickets, now is the time to do so. She noted that all concerts will be held at the Southampton High School Auditorium.

The first concert, featuring Daniel Rodriguez, will be held on Saturday, Sept. 26, at 8 p.m. Rodriguez is known world-wide as the “singing policeman” during the 9-11 disaster and continues to uplift hearts with his incredible voice and showmanship.

Andy Cooney, termed “Irish America’s Favorite Son,” by the New York Times, will appear center stage on Sunday, Oct. 11, at 7:30 p.m. Cooney and his band, will feature the Darrah Carr Dancers, which will provide traditional Irish step and contemporary modern dance

Cooney also will present Ireland’s King of Blarney, Humorist George Casey.

The third concert, featuring Chapter 6, will be held on Saturday, Jan. 30, at 8 p.m. This concert is a family-friendly show that features intricate harmonies and first-class stage wit.

The six-member group, singing a capella, has performed across North America and Asia.

Chapter 6 is the youngest group to qualify for the Chicago-area National Harmony Sweepstakes.

Returning to the area on Sunday, Feb. 21 at 3 p.m., will be the Walter Noona Trio. Accompanied by Greg Hanson on the electric guitar and Ralph Copley, percussionist, Noona will again delight the audience with his talents on the piano.

The Virginia Symphony, under the direction of Joanne Falleta, and conducted by Matt Kraemer will perform on Saturday, March 13, at 8 p.m.

Funded by the Camp Corporation, this concert is free and open to the public.

The symphony performs annually more than 140 classical, pops, family education and outreach concerts, while still supporting the Virginia Opera, the Virginia Arts Festival and the Virginia Ballet.

The last concert of the season will be performed by The 5 Browns, a group of brothers and sisters, who all play piano. On stage Tuesday, April 13, at 7:30 p.m., the family of five was the first to be accepted simultaneously by the Julliard School of Music.

Said Rowe, “To be able to include this group in our series is a significant achievement.”

She added that series tickets are still available at $40 each, while tickets at the door are $25 for adults and $10 for students.

Season tickets which have already been purchased, will be mailed the day after Labor Day, Rowe noted.

For more information, call Rowe at 653-2498 or Beth Ellington at 562-2881.