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Concert promotes diversity in classical music

Oct. 1, 2010

KALAMAZOO--The Detroit-based Sphinx Chamber Orchestra, renowned for promoting diversity in classical music, will perform Saturday, Oct. 16, at Western Michigan University.

The concert, which also features the Harlem String Quartet and violinist Elena Urioste, will begin at 8:15 p.m. in the University's Dalton Center Recital Hall.

Photo of the Sphinx Chamber Orchestra.The Sphinx Chamber Orchestra is an ensemble comprising top alumni of the national Sphinx Competition for young Black and Latino string players. The New York Times lauded the group as "first-rate in every way" during its highly acclaimed debut at Carnegie Hall in 2004. Founded by African-American violinist Aaron Dworkin, the Detroit-based Sphinx organization seeks to make classical music more reflective of cultural diversity and more prevalent in the lives of youth.

The Harlem String Quartet engages young and new audiences to advance diversity in classical music. A collection of first-place Laureates of the Sphinx Competition, the ensemble made its Carnegie Hall debut to rave reviews from the New York Times in 2006.

Violinist Elena Urioste was selected by Symphony magazine as an emerging artist to watch. Critics and audiences alike have hailed her for her rich tone, the nuanced lyricism of her playing, and her commanding stage presence.

Tickets

The Sphinx Chamber Orchestra at the Dalton Center is made possible by the Bullock Music Performance Institute. General admission tickets are available through the Miller Auditorium Ticket Office at (269) 387-2300 or toll free at (800) 228-9858. They are $15, $12 for senior citizens, and $5 for students with a valid Bronco Card.

For more information on the Sphinx Chamber Orchestra, visit sphinxmusic.org.

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Media contact: Matt Jensen, (269) 387-4678, matthew.d20.jensen@wmich.edu

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