The Symphony of Rutherford County, under the direction of Wilbert K. Kimple, will present its annual spring concert on Sunday, May 1 at 3 p.m. at the Foundation Performing Arts Center on the campus of Isothermal Community College.

This year’s spring concert will feature an original composition, “A Blue Ridge Tapestry,” written by clarinetist Bill Flanders. Flanders has dedicated the piece to conductor Kimple and to the symphony as a whole.

Flanders describes the composition as “one with roots from the Celtic tradition. Western North Carolina was settled by families from the British Isles, bringing with them their traditions and music from the ‘Old Country.’ Although ‘A Blue Ridge Tapestry’ is original, the audience will hear this familiar style found in traditional Celtic music, which over the years has transitioned to what is now known as Appalachian and Bluegrass.”

In addition to “A Blue Ridge Tapestry,” the symphony’s spring concert will feature several other selections, including the final movement of Beethovan’s “Symphony No. 6 (The Pastoral),” “Grand March from ‘Tannhauser,’” by Wagner, “Artist’s Life” by Johann Strauss and “Poet and Peasant Overture” by von Suppe. The program will also contain a number of modern pieces from Broadway shows and movies. These include “A Tribute to John Williams,” a medley of themes from such well-known movies as “Star Wars,” “Jaws,” “Raiders of the Lost Ark” and “Harry Potter.” Also included will be a medley of selections from “Les Miserables” and “Memory” from “Cats.”

The Symphony of Rutherford County is a multi-generational volunteer orchestra. Founded in 1988, the orchestra is completing its 23rd year of advancing its mission of serving the community through music and music education. The orchestra prides itself on its inclusiveness, requiring no auditions for membership. Anyone who plays an orchestral instrument and who is willing to devote Saturday mornings (Sept. – April) to rehearsals is welcomed to join.

All concerts provided by the symphony are free and open to the public.