(January 31, 2007)

Media contact: Dr. Julia Thorn, Camerata conductor, 318-869-5235, or Lynn Stewart, Centenary News Service, 318-869-5120

Gala Event on Feb. 8 to Benefit Centenary College's Camerata Debut Performance at New York's Carnegie Hall

Centenary Camerata
Dr. Julia Thorn conducts Camerata during the annual Legacy Luncheon at Centenary College, Jan. 26, 2007. (Centenary News Service file photo)

SHREVEPORT, LA — With the clock ticking down to the Centenary Camerata's solo appearance Feb. 18 at Carnegie Hall — one of the most prestigious concert venues in the world — supporters of the 55-voice ensemble are planning a gala event to celebrate the stellar accomplishment and to help students make the trip.

A dinner hors d'oeuvres buffet will be held from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 8 at Cook's Culinary Co., 6104 Line Ave. "Camerata, Centenary's talented student vocal ensemble, received this prestigious invitation based on its high level of performance and accomplishments," organizers of the event said.

A limited number of seats remain at $75 per person or $600 per table of six. The dressy casual event includes one complimentary drink per person and a cash bar. Call 318-869-5715 or fax 318-841-7289 for reservations.

Local businesses assisting with the event, in addition to Cook's Culinary, include Rose-Neath Flower Shops and Boyett Printing.

The gala is the latest in a number of fund-raisers Camerata has held since the ensemble received its invitation to be a part of Carnegie's elite Masterworks Series. Two concerts and sales of two CDs have supported the effort, as have contributions from area churches and businesses to allow students to participate in the once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Camerata is conducted by Dr. Julia Thorn and accompanied by pianist Gay Grosz. They will be in New York Feb. 15-19, with the Carnegie performance on Feb. 18. The students will rehearse a minimum of four-hour blocks daily but will have some free time to see the city. They will perform Sunday evening and afterwards enjoy a dinner and dancing cruise around Manhattan, courtesy of Manhattan Concert Productions.

Dr. Thorn has been invited to share the podium with renowned conductor Paul Oakley. Additionally, after submitting a CD sampler, Camerata was selected to not only join the mass choir for Durufle Requiem, but also to have a solo performance as a part of the Debut Series during the festival weekend.