[November 19, 2009] Beat Hunger concert expands to two performances Tweet Nov 19, 2009 (Chattanooga Times Free Press - McClatchy-Tribune Information Services via COMTEX) -- Ever heard "Flight of the Bumblebee" played on the xylophone? That's just one of the highlights in store for concertgoers when the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga's Percussion Ensemble presents its annual Beat Hunger benefit Sunday and Monday. "This is the first time we've ever held the concert twice, but we're doing it because the audience has gotten so big," said Dr. Monte Coulter, director. "We overflow the concert hall and get in trouble with the fire marshal. The only solution was to perform twice." The concert draws such a crowd because it has built a reputation for entertaining, innovative numbers. For example: xylophonist Chris Smith's flying "Bumblebee" rendition. "If all goes well, he goes from start to finish in 58 seconds," said Coulter. Coulter said another unusual piece is "Head Talk," which is played entirely on drumheads. Eight marimba players will perform Bach's Fugue in G minor. The ensemble will play the local premiere of Lynn Glassock's "Playing Dragoon," which was inspired by horse-drawn cavalry. "Also, a real treat this year will be a new piece for percussion ensemble and saxophone by David Gillingham with guest artist Clint Schmitt. Clint is a fabulous local saxophonisit and UTC faculty member, who is well known to Chattanooga musicians and audiences. "There are 13 talented percussionists in this ensemble, and the group has more depth than I have ever seen at the college level," said Coulter. The concerts are a benefit for the Chattanooga Community Kitchen. Charlie Hughes, executive director of that agency, estimates that in one night over its past 10 years, Beat Hunger has collected 1,500 pounds of food. IF YOU GO --What: Beat Hunger percussion concert. --When: 7:30 p.m. Sunday and Monday. --Where: UTC Fine Arts Center, corner of Vine and Palmetto streets. --Admission: Two cans of food or $2 check made out to Chattanooga Community Kitchen. --Phone: 425-4601. To see more of the Chattanooga Times Free Press, or to subscribe to the newspaper, go to http://www.timesfreepress.com. Copyright (c) 2009, Chattanooga Times Free Press, Tenn. Distributed by McClatchy-Tribune Information Services. For reprints, email [email protected], call 800-374-7985 or 847-635-6550, send a fax to 847-635-6968, or write to The Permissions Group Inc., 1247 Milwaukee Ave., Suite 303, Glenview, IL 60025, USA. [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ]