9/6: THE AUSTIN SYMPHONY TO PARTICIPATE IN CLASSICAL MUSIC AND ARTS FESTIVAL

WHO: The Austin Symphony with Ballet Austin, Austin Lyric Opera, UT Performing Arts Center, Classical Music Consortium of Austin (CMCA) and KMFA WHEN: September 6, 2003 – 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. WHERE: The French Legation: 802 San Marcos, one block east of IH 35 at Seventh Street COST: Free CONTACT:KMFAs Marcía Williams, 476-5632 or mwilliams@kmfa.org

(PRWEB) August 24, 2003 -- On Saturday, September 6, the Austin Symphony will join the first-ever KMFA Classical Music and Arts Festival (hosted by KMFA Classical 89.5) in celebration of September as Classical Music Month. The free event takes place from 10 a.m.-5p.m. on the grounds of the historic French Legation Museum.

The event will feature classical music performances, wine tasting, a childrens area, food court and more. There is also a commemorative poster featuring artwork by René Alvarado that will contain season information on all of Austins major arts organizations.

Maestro Peter Bay will be in attendance to speak on the 2003 – 2004 season and the Austin arts community. Representing the ASO will be the Budjanova Ensemble led by Assistant Concertmaster Jennifer Bourianoff. The Symphonys September 5/6 guest artist and legendary pianist Emanuel Ax is also tentatively scheduled to appear.

The Festival brings together the Austin Symphony Orchestra, Classical Music Consortium of Austin (CMCA), Ballet Austin, Austin Lyric Opera and UT Performing Arts Center. Two performance areas will feature numerous smaller classical music groups and students. Various other artists will perform and/or have a booth at the event to tie in various aspects of the fine arts in music, dance and choral activities.

Despite hard economic times and arts organizations going under all around, Austin's arts organizations are standing together to let the community know that they are still here, still providing culturally enhancing performances as well as outreach. The KMFA Classical Music and Arts Festival is the first event where Austins major arts organizations have combined their efforts to raise awareness of the importance of supporting the arts in Austin.

It is a collaborative effort meant to show the collective strength of the arts in Austin and to send a message that the arts organizations throughout Central Texas need the support of their communities and businesses.

Find out more about the Austin Symphony at http://www.austinsymphony.org where you will find interactive seating maps, price options and a wealth of concert information.

For more information visit or call the Symphony Office, 11th and Red River or call 476-6064 or 1-888-4-MAESTRO (toll-free).

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