Robbinsdale Schools' Musicians Take Stage at Orchestra Hall Tonight (Nov. 7)

Editor's Note: This article was submitted by communication director Tia Clasen.

The combined choirs and symphony orchestras of Robbinsdale Area Schools will perform the Polovetsian Dances from Prince Igor by Alexander Borodin in this year's Fall Music Festival tonight (Nov. 7) at 7:30 p.m. at Orchestra Hal in Minneapolis.

• Tickets are available at both and box offices during school hours and at Orchestra Hall on the evening of the performance.
  
  
• Admission is $10 for general admission, and $5 for students.
  
  
• For families’ convenience, a shuttle bus will depart from Cooper High School at 6:30 p.m.
  
  
• For more information, call 763-504-8027.

The 38th annual concert will also include "Tanczi, Trepak and Troika" by Jan Van der Roost, performed by the combined Armstrong and Cooper bands; "Firebird Suite, Berceuse and Finale" by Igor Stravinsky, performed by the combined orchestras; and "Niska Banja", arranged by Nick Page and performed by the All-District Choir.  Before the evening concludes, an ensemble of over 600 talented musicians will perform under the baton of guest conductor Kathy Saltzman Romey.

Romey is Director of Choral Activities at the University of Minnesota, where she oversees the graduate conducting program and is conductor of numerous choirs. She is also artistic director of the 200-voice symphonic chorus and The Minnesota Chorale, which serves as principal chorus for the Minnesota Orchestra.

“This is the third time Kathy has come to Robbinsdale Area Schools to be a guest conductor at our Fall Music Festival,” said Sheryl Brame, choral director at   “Each year, the students have commented on her attention to detail, depth of knowledge, clarity of conducting, incredible musicianship, and her great people skills." 

In regard to the master work, Brame said, “The students are excited to be studying different countries and cultures and are learning new languages in order to master singing in Russian and Croatian.  They are thrilled to sing such a beautiful and majestic piece at Orchestra Hall.  These learning experiences allow our students to grow in their understanding of world history, music elements, singing and playing techniques, as well as the art of performance.  The concert will be a special moment that the students will carry with them for a lifetime."