World-renown pianist to play twice in Butler
The Butler County Symphony is set for the final concert of its 60th anniversary season.
The concert at 7:30 p.m. April 25 will have the theme "Facet-Natin' Gems." Not only will Composer of the Year Drew Fennell unveil an original composition, but also world-renown concert pianist Leon Bates will return to perform in Butler for the first time in 10 years.
Bates also will appear on his own at 3 p.m. April 26 as part of the Butler County Community College's Performing Arts Series.
Bates, a Philadelphia native who has appeared in some of the most prestigious concert halls in North America and Europe, is known for classical and jazz performances. For the symphony concert, he will play works by French Impressionist composer Joseph-Maurice Ravel and jazz great Duke Ellington.
Also, since this is the symphony's final performance of its "Diamond Jubilee" season, a diamond bracelet valued at $3,500 will be raffled off. Tickets can still be purchased for $10 at the symphony association's office at 259 S. Main St., or at the concert at Butler Intermediate High School, 551 Fairground Hill Road.
The symphony is under the direction of conductor Elisabeth Heath Charles.
Tickets in advance are $15 for adults and $5 for students and are available at the symphony office. Adult tickets at the door will cost $18. For more information, call 724-283-1402 or visit the Web site, www.butlersymphony.org.
Tickets for the BCCC show will be $18 in advance and $22 at the door; students pay $10 either way. Call 724-284-8505 or visit www.bc3.edu/theater.
