Dexter Community Orchestra Plans Tribute Concert for Group's Founder

Editor's note: This press release was submitted by the Dexter Community Orchestra.

To kick off its 2011 season, the will perform a free concert on Sunday at 2 p.m.

The concert will pay tribute to Donald Parrish, the founding conductor of the DCO, who died in July after a battle with brain cancer. The concert will be held in Performing Arts Center.

Music Director Anthony Elliott will lead the orchestra in works ranging from baroque to the 20th century that reflect Parrish’s musical taste. The concert will include Ludwig van Beethoven's Egmont Overture, Edward Elgar’s Nimrod and Richard Wagner’s Overture to Die Meistersinger.

“In discussing Don Parrish with members of the orchestra, it is clear that he was revered not only for his musicianship, but his positive attitude and ability to encourage all players," DCO board member Louis Nagel said. "He fostered in the group a sense of pride in our community orchestra, and he shared with them his love of music and the people who made it.

“In addition Don was a teacher and mentor to many students over his long career in the public schools. Former students came to the Dexter Community Orchestra as adults to play under his baton. The concert on Sept. 11 will honor Don and reflect the feelings of the performers and community members for Don.“

Local musicians are invited to play with the orchestra for the tribute concert. Rehearsals will take place Wednesday, Friday and Saturday. For more information about playing, email info@dextercommunityorchestra.org.