The Rockford Symphony Orchestra announces the fifth session of the Sound Bites Lunchtime Series for 2008/09.  The popular discussion event is held from noon to 1 p.m. at Brio located at 515 E. State St. on Friday March 27, 2009.  Sound Bites is a fresh and relaxing way to prepare for the RSO concert experience.

Presented over the lunch hour, Sound Bites is a series of informal discussions featuring RSO Music Director Steven Larsen and a variety of exciting solo guest musicians performing with the RSO on most concerts throughout the season. This Sound Bites features Rockford’s own piano prodigy, Emily Bear. Seven year old Emily will perform Mozart’s Piano Concerto No. 23 with the RSO. Emily has performed three times at Ravinia and has made four appearances on the Ellen Degeneres Show. She composes as well as performs classical, jazz, and original compositions.

Sound Bites is free; however space is limited and reservations are strongly recommended due to the popularity of this guest performer. Call Lorie Langan at (815) 972-2939 for reservations. Lunch is available for purchase at Brio.

The topics for each Sound Bites vary, offering a personal perspective by the particular guest musician featured at the discussion. Insights into the performers’ background, personal challenges, and their reflections on the music that they will perform with the RSO are a major feature of the series. There is also ample opportunity for those attending the discussions to join in with questions or comments.

For further information about other events and concerts call (815) 965-0049, or visit www.rockfordsymphony.com.