Cavalleria Rusticana/Pagliacci
Produced by the Teatro Lirico D’Europa
Tuesday, October 14, 2008, 7:30 p.m.

This famous double-opera gives you infidelity, jealousy and murder, all in one evening! Cavalleria Rusticana (Rustic Chivalry) by Mascagni and Pagliacci (Clowns) by Leoncavallo are typically performed together. Teatro Lirico D’Europa has again assembled a stellar cast of impressive European singers. www.jennykellyproductions.com

“No opera house should be without its ‘Cav and Pag.’”
      New York Times

Sponsored by the Armer F. Ahlstrand Charitable Trust

Paul Taylor Dance Company
Friday, November 7, 2008, 7:30 p.m.

One of the world’s most sought-after dance troupes will thrill Rockford audiences with their extraordinary gold standard of modern dance. The Paul Taylor Dance Company of 16 dancers reaps international acclaim as it tours around the world. It was founded by Paul Taylor, revered as one of the world’s greatest choreographers, with 124 dances in his legacy. The company will also perform for the annual “Reach for the Stars” concert for fourth graders.
www.ptdc.org

“The entire company looked splendid . . . extraordinary dancers”
     The Washington Times

Sponsored by AMCORE Bank

Czech Symphony Orchestra
Tuesday, February 10, 2009, 7:30 p.m.

The 70-member Czech Symphony Orchestra has performed in many European music festivals as the Janacek Philharmonic Orchestra, and is known as the Czech Symphony Orchestra during its U.S. tours. Their Rockford date will include violinist Jennifer Frautschi, who has been a soloist with the Chicago Symphony Orchestra as well as other major orchestras. Ms. Frautschi will perform Mendelssohn’s Violin Concerto in E minor, Op. 64, in honor of Mendelssohn’s 200th birthday anniversary.
www.artsmg.com; www.jenniferfrautschi.com

“(Frautschi) is a marvelous musician . . . an important violinist . . . “
      John von Rhein, Chicago Tribune

Sponsored by John and Sue Brubaker Charitable Trust

Ladysmith Black Mambazo
Friday, February 27, 2009, 7:30 p.m.

Experience the soothing sounds of South African music when the world-famous Ladysmith Black Mambazo makes its first appearance in Rockford! The a capella 8-man group has sold more than 7 million records, making them the #1 selling ensemble from Africa. The group has performed with Sarah McLachlan, Paul Simon, Melissa Etheridge and other great artists.
www.mambazo.com

“ . . . the layered beauty of Ladysmith Black Mambazo’s delivery transcended . . .”
     Dallas Morning News

Sponsored by Gordy and Mary Ann Smith Charitable Foundation

Burning River Brass
Thursday, April 16, 2009, 7:30 p.m.

Twelve of the finest brass and percussion players in the country will strut their stuff, which includes fresh arrangements of classic literature as well as original works written specifically for the group. Burning River Brass has been heard on NPR and tours nationally.
www.burningriverbrass.com

“These musicians are virtuosos.”
     Cleveland Plain Dealer