Canton Symphony Orchestra To Put On SUMMER SERENADES IN THE PARK

This summer Stark County residents have been enjoying performances by ensembles from the Canton Symphony Orchestra (CSO) in several Stark Parks. The series, known as Summer Serenades in the Park, a partnership between the Canton Symphony Orchestra (CSO) and Stark County Park District (SCPD) will conclude with a FREE full orchestra concert on September 4 at 7:30pm at Petros Lake Park (3519 Perry Drive SW, Canton).

Since June small ensembles from the CSO have performed in five of Stark Parks' locations. "We had a lot of success last year with the Summer Serenades and wanted to continue that this year," notes Amanda Perry, Programmer for SCPD, "We love seeing people experiencing new things in the parks." The series is sponsored in part by Dominion, The Henry & Louise Timken Foundation, and Ada C. & Helen J. Rank Charitable Trust.

The concert, set up in the amphitheater area of Petros Lake Park, will include music from popular films including Star Wars, Pirates of the Caribbean andHarry Potter, favorite classics by Dvo?ák and Korngold, patriotic marches, and more. Rachel Waddell, Associate Conductor of the CSO will conduct the orchestra.

To further enhance the experience, pre-concert activities will begin at 6:00pm. The Park District will provide life-size board games and a play area for children. Attendees should bring their own chairs or blankets and are encouraged to pack a picnic dinner or snacks to enjoy during the concert. Wine will be permitted for consumption within the amphitheater area. "This is a relaxed, casual, family-friendly event," says Michelle Mullaly, President and CEO of the orchestra, "we want everyone to enjoy being together in the park while listening to the music."

The mission of the Stark County Park District is to acquire, preserve, and develop natural areas for passive recreation, conservation, education, and nature appreciation. Stark Parks offers more than 14 parks and 100 miles of hiking, bicycling, and equestrian trails and four lakes for boating, fishing, canoeing, and kayaking. More information is available at StarkParks.com.

Founded in 1937, the Canton Symphony Orchestra is a fully professional ensemble and organization dedicated to performing concerts that enrich, educate and entertain. Under the direction of Gerhardt Zimmermann, the orchestra performs classical, pops, holiday, and educational programs. Most performances are in Umstattd Performing Arts Hall at the Zimmermann Symphony Center 2331 17th Street NW, Canton, Ohio (adjacent to McKinley High School). Parking at the Zimmermann Symphony Center is free. For more information, please visit www.CantonSymphony.org.