DOWNEY - Pianist Kevin Fitz-Gerald is known in the concert halls of Canada, China, Japan, Korea, Australia, Mexico, South America, the Mediterranean and the Caribbean, and throughout the United States.He appears as soloist with major orchestras, and as a chamber musician. He has collaborated with internationally renown artists, and recorded performances for radio and television networks across the world. Imagine that passport. But. He has not yet toured Antarctica? We are shocked. Turns out he hasn't toured Downey either, and that is about to be corrected. Finally we will welcome acclaimed pianist Kevin Fitz-Gerald on the stage of our own theater when he plays with our own orchestra on Saturday evening, March 31, at 8 p.m. Mark your calendar and be there. This man is a force, playing the First Concerto of Franz Liszt, himself the phenomenal keyboard dazzler of his time. Under Music Director Sharon Lavery, the program includes two works by Dmitri Shostakovich, the Galop and Symphony No. 9, and Tchaikovsky's Capriccio Italien. The pre-concert conversation covering the music to be heard begins at 7:15 p.m. One of Downey's finest citizens, Art Morris, will conduct the Galop as the 2011 winner of the Baton Auction, and Concertmaster Caroline Osborn, putting on another hat, becomes auctioneer for next year's lucky bidder. And after the final curtain call, a reception in the theater patio for audience and orchestra. Cookies and punch, cheese, strawberries and champagne, all compliments of the symphony boards. Do come. Downey's theater is at 8435 Firestone Blvd., at the corner of Brookshire Avenue, and parking is free. More information is available by calling (562) 861-8211. Tickets? Easy to get. Purchase online at downeysymphony.org or visit the theater box office Tuesdays through Fridays between 11 a.m. and 6 p.m., and of course, before concert time on Saturday. Reserved seating is $30 and $25, and those with student ID, children and adults, may enjoy this exciting evening for $10.

********** Published: March 22, 2012 - Volume 10 - Issue 49