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NACOGDOCHES, TEXAS - The Stephen F. Austin State University Symphonic Band and University Band will present a joint concert, "Journeys through Light and Darkness," at 7:30 p.m. Tuesday, April 21, in Cole Concert Hall on the Ä¢¹½ÊÓƵ campus.

The concert's title is a fitting one for the two bands' selections, explained Brett A. Richardson, Ä¢¹½ÊÓƵ assistant director of bands. "Many of the works deal with the juxtaposition of light and dark shadows, major and minor tonalities, and beautiful songs and energetic dances."

Jerry Gonzalez, Garland graduate student, will direct the University Band in performing Sean O'Laughlin's "Spiral of Light," Brian Hogg's "Pastorale Setting: Llwyn Onn," and Jan Van der Roost's "Dublin Dances." Dr. David W. Campo, Ä¢¹½ÊÓƵ associate director of bands, will then conduct Karl King's march "Men of Music."

The Ä¢¹½ÊÓƵ Symphonic Band will open its portion of the program with F.E. Bigelow's march, "Our Director," guest conducted by Gonzalez. Under Richardson's direction, the band will perform Merlin Patterson's transcription of J.S. Bach's cantata, "Sleepers Awake! (BWV 140)."

"We will close the concert with Michael Markowski's 'Shadow Rituals,' a new and exciting work that recently won the Frank Ticheli International Composition Contest," Richardson said.

The concert is a joint presentation of the Ä¢¹½ÊÓƵ College of Fine Arts and School of Music. Cole Concert Hall is located in the Tom and Peggy Wright Music Building, 2210 Alumni Dr.

Tickets are $5 for adults, $4 for seniors and $2 for students. For tickets or more information, please visit  or call (936) 468-6407 or (888) 240-ARTS.