Chorus performs music of local composer

William Dawson Favorite hymns, folk songs and rousing spirituals illuminate the richness of the great American musical experience in "How Sweet The Sound" Saturday, Feb. 9 at 7:30 p.m. at The Village Church, 15100 Shell Point Blvd. and Sunday, Feb. 10 at 3 p.m. at Chapel by the Sea at 100 Chapel St., Fort Myers Beach. Director of Choruses Joseph Caulkins will conduct this concert that features the Symphony chorus, children's chorus and guests.

Fort Myers Beach resident, acclaimed composer and pianist William Dawson composed two of the pieces to be performed including A Setting to Amazing Grace and Psalm 150. Dawson is the Florida State Music Teachers Association Florida Composer of the Year. Michael Helman, composer and organist, will also be featured. The works of Clausen, Hayes, Rutter, and Alice Parker will also be performed.

Two concerts remain in the Stained Glass series. Eternal Light, April 20 at Riverside Church in Fort Myers, offers a moving program of English and Latin texts celebrating the reassurance and hope of everlasting life.

Michael Helman Children of Hope, May 11 at Cypress Lake United Methodist Church in Fort Myers, features the talented Children's Chorus and celebrates the power of children and the power of music to make a difference in the world. Newly appointed Children's Chorus Director Catherine Truesdale will conduct this concert.

Single tickets are $18 and may be purchased by calling the Symphony Box Office at 418-1500 or on line at www.swflso.org. Although tickets may be available at the door, it is strongly recommended they be purchased beforehand.