Oklahoma State University Symphony Orchestra to appear in concert with KANSAS

Wednesday, August 25, 2010

The Oklahoma State University Symphony Orchestra will perform with legendary rock band KANSAS.  The band, known for such 1970’s hits as “Dust in the Wind” and “Carry on Wayward Son”, will perform at 8 p.m. with the symphony on Thursday, Sept. 23 and Friday, Sept. 24 at the Stillwater High School Performing Arts Center.

The concert is part of the band’s 2010 Collegiate Symphony Tour to raise money for college music programs.   The concert next month in Stillwater will benefit the OSU Department of Music.

“This will be a full-blown concert with pro-lights and sound,” said Phil Ehart, KANSAS drummer.  “KANSAS prides itself in performing first-class shows no matter what the venue.  This college tour is an opportunity to not only showcase our band but the university’s symphony in the best possible manner.”

“We are very excited about this opportunity,” said Brant Adams, head of the Department of Music at OSU. “KANSAS’ popularity gives our students and faculty a unique occasion in which they can showcase their talents in front of a whole new audience. 

“The music department and the orchestra are working hard to get prepared for the performance.  This promises to be a spectacular event not only for the audience but for our student performers.”

The presenting sponsor is D’Addario & Co., a musical products accessory manufacturer.  D’Addario will give a one-time $2,000 scholarship to OSU’s Department of Music.  In addition to the scholarship, D’Addario & Co. will give the school a selection of products from its catalogs. 

KANSAS became one of the most popular rock bands of the 1970’s following the release of its first album, “KANSAS” in 1974. In addition to Ehart, the band is comprised of singer-keyboardist Steve Walsh, guitarist Rich Williams, bassist Billy Greer and violinist David Ragsdale. 

Advance tickets are $40 and can be purchased through the OSU Music Department’s website at music.okstate.edu or at protix.com.  A small number of half-price student tickets will be available through the Music Department office on a cash basis only.  Only one ticket per OSU student ID will be sold until all tickets are gone.  No credit cards, checks, or phone orders will be accepted.  Student tickets must be purchased in person.