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|| High Country Press Newswire

April 03, 2008 issue

Philharmonic Wind Quintet of New York To Perform April 16

Appalachian State University’s Office of Arts and Cultural Programs presents a fun and witty chamber music performance on Wednesday, April 16, with the Philharmonic Wind Quintet of New York, also known as the PQNY. This performance, presented in partnership with Appalachian’s Hayes School of Music, will take place at 8:00 p.m. in Rosen Concert Hall and will conclude the 2007-08 Performing Arts Series.

PQNY was formed in 2001 by five key players from the wind section of the world-famous New York Philharmonic— Mark Nuccio (clarinet), Sherry Sylar (oboe), Erik Ralske (horn), Judith LeClair (bassoon) and Robert Langevin (flute). Known for their infectious sense of fun, energy and musicality as much as their virtuosity, the ensemble’s performance is sure to be serious fun.

The ensemble serves as a kind of musical ambassador for the New York Philharmonic, appearing regularly with the NY Philharmonic Ensembles Series, and at numerous fundraising and private performances for the Philharmonic. The ensemble maintains an active touring schedule, performing regularly to sold-out audiences on three continents to great critical acclaim.

Shortly after their debut in 2001, the PQNY performed one of the first concerts at the World Trade Center disaster site to raise morale for the relief workers and residents of the affected area in the wake of the tragedy. In turn, a whole series of concerts by New York Philharmonic musicians was developed. This experience led to the PQNY’s commitment to perform regularly for audiences and causes around the world.

In addition to their busy careers as performers, all five members of the PQNY are highly successful professors as well, serving on the faculties of the Juilliard School, Manhattan School of Music and Mannes College of Music.

While at Appalachian, members of the PQNY will conduct residency activities with students of the Hayes School of Music. Their performance and residency activities are presented in partnership with Appalachian’s Hayes Endowment for Musical Excellence.

Advance tickets for PQNY’s April 16 performance are$10 for all seats. Seating for the performance is general admission, and ticket prices increase at the door on the night of the performance. For tickets or information, call the Farthing Auditorium Box Office at 800-841-ARTS(2787) or 828-262-4046, or visit www.pas.appstate.edu.