By Alexis Getscher, July 31, 2014.
As part of what's be come an annual tradition, Desert Overture brings back "A La Carte," Aug. 17, an even similar to the first concert it ever performed five years ago.
Each year the "A La Carte" concert serves as a preview of what the group has in store for the season ahead.
The 50-person LGBT concert band will break out into small groups and solos to perform a range of music chosen by band members.
"I always look forward to the opportunity for the individual players in our band to show their talent," said Scott Helms, Desert Overture's artistic director. "I'm looking forward to the trombone pieces, those are going to be a lot of fun."
The trombone performance will include "The Entertainer" as well as another ragtime piece. Additionally, Helms said attendees can expect to hear jazz and flute combos as well.
"There's also an absolutely beautiful trumpet duet called ‘Pie Jesu,'" he added.
Around 200 people are expected to fill the Trinity Episcopal Cathedral, in Phoenix, a space Helms said he always enjoys performing in.
"Just the opportunity to perform in such a visually beautiful space [and the] acoustics are my favorite parts," he said, "the staff is always wonderful there too."
Desert Overture has performed each of the past five "A La Carte" concerts at the cathedral, but Helms says the band has grown too big to comfortably fit the space for its full band performances.
Because Desert Overture relies on contributions to pay for practice space, sheet music and performance venues, there is a suggested donation of $15 for the performance.
"A La Carte"
Presented by Desert Overture
4 p.m. Aug. 17
Trinity Episcopal Cathedral
100 W. Roosevelt St., Phoenix
desertoverture.org