This spring, the UMKC Conservatory will host performances ranging from orchestras to jazz groups and solo senior recitals.
Most concerts are free for UMKC students, but larger performances offer students a discounted ticket price.
Sophomore music education major Elly Lu is a violin player in the Conservatory’s orchestra.
“Spring is the time of year when everyone is wrapping up,” Lu said. “Everyone wants to wrap up on a high note (pun intended).”
Lu highlighted the orchestra’s upcoming concert on Feb. 23, the technically challenging performance of “The Rite of Spring” by Igor Stravinsky. Director of Orchestras at the Conservatory, Kevin Noe, will be conducting their performance.
The spring musical, “The Pirates of Penzance,” is one of the most highly anticipated performances of the semester featuring the UMKC Orchestra uniting with student vocalists. The show will run from March 20-23 with discounted tickets for UMKC students.
The Conservatory’s Dance program wrapped up its Senior Capstone Dance Recitals this month, but their calendar is full of future events.
“After senior performances we’ll do our spring show, the faculty show. I’ll be rehearsing a lot for those too,” said senior dancer Jaeden Johnson.
UMKC Conservatory musicians will play at the Nelson Atkins Art Museum in an event titled “Sight X Sound: An Art and Music Series” on March 1, April 5 and April 19. Tickets are free for UMKC students who pre-register on the UMKC Conservatory website.
Non-music majors can join UMKC’s campus band to play music together without being in the Conservatory. All students are welcome to join, although 2-3 years of playing experience is recommended.
The band meets on Monday nights and performs one concert each semester, this semester playing on March 4.
“Come to our concerts. They’re (usually) free for UMKC students and count for First Semester Experience credit. It’s freaking cool,” Lu said.
