Symphony seeks passionate musicians

The Dakota Valley Symphony is a seeking a few good musicians as it gears up for its new season beginning Oct. 9. In particular, it needs string players and percussionists.

The symphony's rehearsals are starting this week, and director Stephen Ramsey says, "We are looking for passionate and enthusiastic musicians." To arrange for an audition, contact Ramsey at sjramz@gmail.com or fill out an online contact request at DakotaValleySymphony.org.

The symphony is also seeking vocalists for "Amahl and the Night Visitors," with rehearsals beginning Oct. 4 and continuing once a week on Tuesday evenings through the performance on Dec. 4. No audition is required for vocalists in the "community sings" format. All those who are willing to attend rehearsals and performances are welcome. Contact Ramsey for details.

StringWerks plans auditions on Sept. 12The StringWerks Music Program is holding auditions beginning Sept. 12 for string, brass, woodwind and percussion musicians. Rehearsals will be held on Monday evenings, with a concert set for Nov. 19 at Burnsville High School's Mraz Center.

StringWerks is a program for musicians of all ages, youth through adult. It is offered through the Burnsville School District's community education program.

Youth orchestra levels include the Cadet Orchestra for beginning strings, the Philharmonic Orchestra for intermediate strings, and the Symphony Orchestra for advanced strings, brass, woodwinds and percussion as well as a Chamber Ensemble for advanced strings. Youth brass, woodwind and percussion players are especially needed.

Adult programs include two groups for intermediate and advanced strings. Musicians are placed based upon ability.

Septemberfest is Sept. 16-17The eighth annual Septemberfest celebration sponsored by Faithful Shepherd Catholic School in Eagan Sept. 16-17 will include a Family Fun Night on Friday night followed by a concert night for adults only on Saturday featuring Boogie Wonderland and Catchpenny.

The outdoor fall festival takes place on the school's grounds at 3355 Columbia Drive in Eagan, just east of the Yankee Doodle Road and Lexington Avenue intersection.

Concert night tickets for the Saturday, Sept. 17 performance by Boogie Wonderland and Catchpenny are $15 in advance through Sept. 9 and $20 after that date. They can be purchased online at www.septemberfestrocks.com. Gates will open at 5 p.m., with beer and other adult beverages, sodas, water and Jake's City Grille food selections available to purchase. Beverages will be two-for-the-price-of-one from 5 to 6 p.m. Concertgoers must be 21 or older.

During Family Fun Night, set for 5:30-8:30 p.m. Friday, Sept. 16, there will be a big top tent where carnival games and activities, DJ music and entertainment, food and crafts will be available. Admission will cost $5 per person or $20 per family.

Event proceeds will benefit Faithful Shepherd.