Sioux Falls Jazz and Blues Presents Mark O'Connor with the Augustana Orchestra, 4/4

Sioux Falls Jazz and Blues present their 2013-2014 Concert Series featuring Mark O'Connor with the Augustana Orchestra.

Tickets : $39 and $49
SFJB subscriber tickets are $37 and $46.

To learn more about SFJB, or for specific ticket information, visit their website or call (605) 367-6000.

A product of America's rich aural folk tradition as well as classical music, Mark O'Connor's creative journey began at the feet of a pair of musical giants. The first was the folk fiddler and innovator who created the modern era of American fiddling. Benny Thomasson; the second, French jazz violinist, considered one of the greatest improvisers in the history of the violin, Stephane Grappelli. Along the way, between these marvelous musical extremes. Mark O'Connor absorbed knowledge and influence from the multitude of musical styles and genres he studied. Now, at age 49, he has melded and shaped these influences into a new American Classical music, and a vision of entirely American school of string playing. As The Los Angeles Times recently noted, he has "crossed over so many boundaries, that is style is purely personal.

The Augustana Orchestra is a student ensemble of approximately sixty musicians. Their repertoire consists of major works and overtures, as well as traditional, contemporary, and popular literature for the orchestra. Talented music majors and non-majors alike play an active role in the orchestra program while pursuing music as a major or in other academic disciplines. The orchestra is often featured in Recital Hour, Chapel Services, and to promote interest in Augustana's music program by playing with high school orchestras throughout the region.