Campus Connection

Performance features long-time director Gary Walth’s last on campus

The combined choral forces of UW-La Crosse’s Choral Union and Concert Choir will present Carl Orff’s “Carmina Burana,” a secular “scenic” cantata which offers something for everyone. “With the music itself fluctuating between simple chant and almost rock-inspired rhythms, then juxtaposing majesty with intimacy, this large work will instantly become your favorite classical piece,” says conductor Gary Walth. The concert is set for 7:30 p.m. Sunday, May 14, in the Bluffs Room, Student Union, 521 East Ave. N. Suggested ticket donations are $5 for students, $8 for senior citizens and $10 for others. All tickets will be sold at the door. Walth expects the audience to recognize some of the music. “Carmina Burana’s” opening and closing movements, “O Fortuna,” has been used in countless commercials selling everything from cheese to watches and Australian beer, he notes. Assisting the choir are two pianists; tenor, baritone and soprano soloists; a percussion ensemble led by UWL Music Department Professor Tammy Fisher; and the Affinity for Dance Ensemble, Nicole Novak, director. This is Walth’s final conducting performance on campus after a 24-year career as the director of choral music studies. He will retire at the end of the spring semester, but will have a grand final performance with the Concert Choir at Carnegie Hall in June. If you go— Who: UWL Choral Union and Concert Choir What: Carl Orff’s “Carmina Burana” When: 7:30 p.m. Sunday, May 14 Where: Bluffs Room, Student Union, 521 East Ave. N. Admission: $5 for students, $8 for senior citizens and $10 for others. Get tickets at the door.