The Rockford Symphony Orchestra announces the fourth season of SoundBites - the popular lunchtime discussion event. SoundBites moves to a new location this year – KiKi B’s located at 1641 N. Alpine Rd. in the Edgebrook Shopping Center in Rockford will host the lunchtime series. The first SoundBites for the 2009/10 RSO season is scheduled for noon on Friday, September 25. SoundBites is a fresh and relaxing way to prepare for the RSO concert experience.

 

Presented over the lunch hour, SoundBites 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. The SoundBites on September 25 features renowned violinist – Rachel Barton Pine who will perform Alexander Glazunov’s violin concerto with the RSO on Saturday, September 26.This will be the Chicago native’s fourth performance with the RSO, having most recently performed in 2005. Known for her virtuosic skills, Ms. Pine’s musical interests range from classical to heavy metal and she is a powerful advocate for music education as well. She will perform on a 1742 Guarneri del Gesu violin.

 

Sound Bites is free; however space is limited and reservations are strongly recommended. Call Lorie Langan at (815) 972-2939 for reservations. Lunch is available for purchase at KiKi B’s.

 

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.

 

Future dates for Sound Bites, although artists and dates may be subject to change:

November 13 Mark Baldin, trumpet

January 15       Robert Bonfiglio, harmonica             

February 12     Chu-Fang Huang, piano

March 19         Various RSO musicians

April 23           Photographers participating in the “Pictures at an Exhibition” project

 

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