The Commerce Bank Concert Series opens Oct. 21 with "Family Favorites," an approachable introduction to the orchestra, designed with children of all ages in mind. This concert will feature an inspiring performance by Cape Girardeau's own award-winning pianist and Cape Central High School student, Bonan Wang. Other performers that evening will be the Southeast Missouri Music Academy's very young Suzuki All-Stars, playing as soloists with the symphony, and a special premiere composition by Robert Fruehwald, Southeast associate professor of music, will be featured. A special ticket price of $4 for children is being offered for this performance.

This concert is the first of five concerts the Southeast Missouri Symphony Orchestra will present throughout the year in its Commerce Bank Concert Series 2003-2004.

Mark Sparks, St. Louis Symphony's principal flutist and among the most renowned flutists in the country, will join the Southeast Chamber Orchestra for its second event this year, the "President's Concert", at 3 p.m. Nov. 16 in Old St. Vincent's Church. This afternoon program will explore the musical genius of Mozart and feature Lori Shaffer as soprano soloist. Truly, this dynamic and exciting event is not to be missed.

The third presentation in the series is the beloved Handel's "Messiah," scheduled for 8 p.m. Dec. 2. This delightful production is a collaborative effort between the orchestra, Southeast's Choral Union and the University Choir. This masterpiece has enthralled audiences since its introduction in 1742 and will usher in the holiday season.

Next in the series will be "Sabre Dance!: Russian Masterworks" on March 9, in which audiences will be able to experience some of the most spirited and colorful music in the world, that of the Russian masters. The program on this evening will feature the rousing and popular "Sabre Dance" as well as performances by student winners of Southeast's Concerto and Aria Competition.

The final symphonic showcase this season will pay tribute to the great heritage of African-American music, inspired by the traditions of Spirituals, Ragtime and Jazz. "Feel the Spirit" will take place at 8 p.m. May 4 and will feature arrangements by John Rutter and Mack Wilberg, presented collaboratively by the orchestra, Choral Union and University Choir.

Subscribers who purchase tickets for all five events will receive a 10 percent discount and will have their seats reserved before the beginning of the season. This offer is only good through Oct. 10. Call the Performing Arts Box Office now at (573) 651-2265.