July 18
Summer breezes will carry the sound of light classical and popular music when the Mid-Michigan Festival Orchestra performs July 18 at the St. Johns City Park Performance Shell as part of the weekly Concert in the Park series. There is no admission for the concert that begins at 7 p.m.
Formed in 1985, the 60-piece, full symphony orchestra is comprised of musicians from Clinton and Shiawassee counties along with the greater Lansing and Flint areas. The orchestra performs a variety of musical styles similar to a Boston Pops type of concert. Rodney Lamar Page, former orchestra director at St. Johns Public Schools, returns again as conductor.
“I’m excited to take the podium again this year to conduct this outstanding orchestra,” Page says. “We’ve got another great program lined up of popular and light classical music that will have a wide audience appeal.”
Originally from Southfield, Page has been conducting and performing for nearly 20 years. He is a graduate of Michigan State University and 2002 Fulbright recipient, and was employed as director of orchestras in St. Johns from 2002-09.
Page’s skill and accomplishments in the classroom were acknowledged in 2006 when he was designated District V Orchestra Teacher of the Year by the Michigan Band and Orchestra Association (MSBOA).
Most recently the talented musician and conductor has turned his attention to providing entertainment services as a freelance musician and DJ presenting unique, innovative shows. His repertoire includes violin, piano, and vocal percussion, often enhancing recorded music with live instrumentation.
Concert in the Park is sponsored by the Clinton County Arts Council and the city of St. Johns, with support from the Michigan Council for the Arts and Cultural Affairs and the National Endowment for the Arts. In addition, a memorial in honor of Frances Muehlenbeck that helps in the financial support of CCAC and the summer music series is being recognized at the July 18 concert.
Concerts are held each Wednesday evening, beginning at 7 p.m., in the St. Johns City Park. The St. Johns Lions and Lioness Club staff a concession stand that offers light refreshments. All concerts are held rain or shine.
For information on Concert in the Park call the Clinton County Arts Council, (989) 224-2429.