Renowned Marimbist to Open Distinguished Artist Series

by Richard Veit

Waco, Texas - Japanese marimbist Keiko Abe, one of the world's leading figures in the modern development of marimba music, will perform with members of the Michigan Chamber Players at 2 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 1, in Baylor University's Jones Concert Hall.
The concert is the opening event in the School of Music's Distinguished Artist Series.
Keiko Abe is not only an acclaimed performer on her instrument (with 15 commercial recordings to her credit), but is also internationally-respected composer. Four of her compositions, "Conversation in the Forest II," "Wind Sketch," "Voice of Matsuri Drums," and "Wind Across Mountains" will be presented during the concert.
Also on the program is "Lightning II" by another successful recording artist-Michael Udow-who serves as a percussionist with the Michigan Chamber Players. The group's other percussionist is Anthony Di Sanza, and the wind players are oboist Harry Sargous and saxophonist Donald Sinta.
The concert will feature the world premiere of "Hot Zone" by Derek Bermel, a 28-year-old New Yorker, and conclude with a performance of Japanese composer Kaoru Wada's "Go-Za-Kyoh-En."
The Michigan Chamber Players were formed five years ago for the purpose of making music with marimba virtuoso Keiko Abe, as well as premiering dynamic new works by Japanese and American composers.
Tickets for the concert by Keiko Abe and the Michigan Chamber Players are priced at $10, but students and senior citizens will be admitted for $6. For more information, call the Baylor School of Music at 755-3991.