USAO concert band, rock ensemble deliver Fall excitement

The USAO Concert Wind Ensemble and the Key Players will come together to present an eclectic program of music on Nov. 21 at 7:30 p.m. in the Te Ata Memorial Auditorium.

The concert is free and open to the public.

The Key Players is a synthesizer ensemble formed by Dr. Dan Hanson, professor of music, in 2006. “The keyboard ensemble,” Hanson explained, “will surprise you with rich, powerful and complex sounds. We demonstrate the versatility of synthesizers with unique arrangements of rock standards.”

The program will feature original arrangements of several timeless rock classics including two songs by the Beach Boys, “Good Vibrations” and “Help Me Rhonda,” “Owner of a Lonely Heart” by Yes, Elvis Presley’s “Return to Sender” and the B-52’s quirky smash hit, “Love Shack,” among others.

The Key Players are Nathan Allen of Amber, Adam Bryant of Tuttle, Ariel Morgan of Enid, Jesse Merritt of Minco and Hanson, who also serves as director.

The 32-member USAO Concert Wind Ensemble presents a colorful and challenging program of contemporary and experimental music for concert band. Highlights include John Philip Sousa's "Semper Fidelis," a big Christmas medley and dynamic pieces by Jaime Texidor, Robert Sheldon, William Francis McBeth, Richard Wagner, and Oklahoman Ed Huckeby.

“This is a versatile group,” Hanson offered, “with an impressive range of talent.

“Performers are drawn from every course of study at USAO. Membership is open to anyone who enjoys performing music in a spirit of fun and creativity.”

Both groups serve to educate, entertain and recruit while fulfilling creative expression credits in the Interdisciplinary Studies core. Scholarships are available to each member of the ensembles.

Those interested in more information about the concert should call Dr. Dan Hanson at 574-2297.