The Rockford Symphony Orchestra is pleased to present the Rockford Symphony Youth Orchestra’s (RSYO) spring concert at 3 p.m. on Sunday, April 27 at the Freeport Masonic Temple located at 315 West Stephenson St. in Freeport. RSYO conductor Dr. Alison Gaines has programmed works by Wagner, Britten, Barber, and Bizet.

In addition to the 60 members of the RSYO, there will be performances by special guests including Sam Batista of DeKalb, first prize winner of the 2007 Rockford Symphony/Rock Valley College Concerto Competition; and the Highland Community College Chorale under the direction of Mr. Allen Redford. A reception honoring the graduating senior members of the RSYO will immediately follow the concert.

Tickets are $12 for adults and $8 for students in advance through April 25; $15 for adults and $10 for students at the door the day of the concert. Advance tickets are available at the RSO Box Office located at the Riverfront Museum Park, 711 N. Main St. in Rockford. For further information, call (815) 972-2939.

The Rockford Symphony Youth Orchestra, led by conductor Dr. Alison Gaines, is in its 42nd season this year. The young musicians participating in this premiere youth orchestra are from 20 regional schools, plus home. The orchestra rehearses weekly and gives concerts at the end of each semester. RSYO is the area’s premiere full-training orchestra for regional student musicians. Auditions are held in late spring for the following concert season.