On Friday evening, Oct. 24, the Tryon Concert Association will present the first of two new mini-concert events. These TGIF non-subscription concerts are independent of the traditional season series. Created to get the weekend off to a light-hearted start, these two early evening programs will feature regional performers in a relaxed atmosphere.

The Mountain Chamber Players will perform for the initial TGIF concert at the Tryon Fine Arts Center this Friday. A wine and beer bar will be open at 5:30 and the concert will be presented between 6 – 7 p.m.

The Mountain Chamber Players started as a group in 1998 and have delighted audiences throughout the Southeast. Three founding members include Rita Hayes (flute), the late David Kirby (clarinet) and Katherine Palmer (piano). Later, Brian Hermanson (clarinet) and Jason DeCristofaro (percussionist and composer) were added to the group. All are on the faculty at Brevard College where they are now established as the Brevard College Ensemble-in-Residence.

Words of praise for the Mountain Chamber Players describe the group as “outstanding young musicians,” “exuberant and spirited,” “imaginative and entertaining,” “polished and professional.” They will present a performance of new and older works as well as a composition written by their own musicians.