Orchestra back to ‘impress’ Sudburians

The touring Hart House Orchestra, based out of the University of Toronto, will stop off at St. Andrew’s Place, 111 Larch St., Feb. 13 at 8 p.m.

Organizer Robert Hall, who is chair of the Laurentian University Department of Music, said the orchestra had decided to include the Sudbury venue as a part of its February tour, after visiting Sudbury as part of a tour four years ago.

“It is just four years since the full symphony orchestra last impressed a Sudbury audience,” Hall said.

“Orchestra manager Elizabeth Day said the members had such a good time here in 2006 that they wanted to return.

They really enjoyed Science North, skating on Ramsey Lake, and the warm welcome of the Sudbury audience.”

The concert program features two major works from the French orchestral literature, Hall said. The performance will include pieces from Debussy’s Fêtes from his Nocturnes and Symphony in D Minor by César Franck.

“The first half of the program will present saxophone soloist Stephen Fox, playing the rarely heard Saxophone Concerto by British composer Joseph Holbrooke.”

Hall said Fox brings a rich classical and jazz background to his playing.

“He will play both the soprano and alto saxophone in various sections of the concerto.”

The Hart House Orchestra was formed in 1976 to provide an opportunity for members of the University of Toronto community with musical training to continue performing without having to pursue music as a full-time career, Hall said.


“The orchestra has a full complement of about 70 players who come together for the joy of making music in an informal and relaxed environment.”

Membership in the orchestra includes students at all levels of study, senior alumni and university staff.

Tickets for the concert are $15 and $10 for students, and are available at Black Cat and the St. Andrew’s Place office. If available, tickets will also be sold at the door. Phone 675-1151 ext. 2521.