[img_inline align=”right” src=”http://padnws01.mcmaster.ca/images/Romanza.jpg” caption=”Frederik Robert, Ken Lavigne and Philip Grant of Romanza will perform on Oct. 27 at 8 p.m. Photo courtesy Caline Artists International.”]The School of the Arts Celebrity Concert Series is back for its 2006-07 season. This year will showcase a diverse array of musical performances from the ever-popular free lunchtime concerts on Tuesdays to the reasonably priced two-hour gala performances on Friday evenings that draw faculty, staff and students alike.

This year is no exception to the quality of artistry that has contributed to the longevity of the series. Starting Sept. 29, the season will be launched with the evening performance of Toronto's Mooredale Concerto Players, a 14-piece orchestral group comprised of young musicians with a passion for classical concertos.

Prepare yourself for a moving experience unlike any other at our lunchtime concert opener, Akafist, on Sept. 26. Not only are they a multiple international prize-winning all-male Russian Choir, but they are also devoted to keeping the vanishing tradition of Russian choral art and Orthodox Church singing alive.

The School of the Arts is also very proud to feature what has been called the yearly highlight of the lunchtime series on Nov. 7. Music professor Hugh Hartwell and his Trio will thrill audiences with their unique jazz collaborations.

In addition, newcomer professor James McGowan will perform an eclectic mix of piano solos on Jan. 16. Music instructor William Moolenbeek will light up the hall with his saxophone riffs on Oct. 10. With so much talent, no wonder the music program at McMaster has been called one of the best!

Speaking of performances worth noting, don't forget to pencil in what is sure to be an enchanting evening with Romanza, Canada's very own three tenors! Philip Grant, Ken Lavigne and Frederik Robert may be young, but they are no strangers to the world stage, having delighted audiences across North America and Europe with their vocal virtuosity.

The final evening concert for 2006 is sure to be a crowd pleaser! Back by popular demand, the Kiyoshi Nagata Ensemble consistently packs houses with the rhythmic power of the Taiko Drums. This is just the beginning of what is to come. It goes without saying that this season has something for everyones taste!

All Celebrity Concerts take place in University Hall, Room 213

For more information, please e-mail concerts@mcmaster.ca or visit the School of the Arts website.