College orchestras tune in on American composers

The Grove City College Department of Music presents “American Composers” with the College Orchestra and Chamber Orchestra at 7:30 p.m. Friday, Oct. 9, in Ketler Auditorium of the Pew Fine Arts Center on campus. The show is free and open to the public. 

The concert features the world premiere Jeff Lippencott’s “American Hymn,” performed by the College Orchestra, and the music of well-known and new American composers, including selections from Bernstein’s “West Side Story,” music from John Williams’ “Star Wars” film score and “Hometown Miniatures” written by Drew Fennell, the trumpet instructor at Grove City College.

Dr. Jeffrey M. Tedford, director of Orchestras for Grove City College, will conduct.

Lippencott is a two time Emmy-nominated composer and is responsible for the music of hit television series including “The Apprentice,” “The Biggest Loser,” “Shark Tank,” “Who Wants To Be A Millionaire,” “MasterChef,” “Hotel Hell,” and “The Quest.” Lippencott has also scored several films. His new work, “American Hymn,” depicts not only the pastoral landscape of America but also the patriotic spirit that helped forge a nation.

Fennell, a well-known composer for concert and brass bands as well as orchestras throughout the country, is also the principal flugelhorn with Pittsburgh’s River City Brass Band.

For more information, call the Music Office at Grove City College at 724-458-2084 or www.gcc.edu/music.