Missy Schwarz, a local canine celebrity from Rantoul, will be joining the Cincinnati, Ohio Fillmore Wind Band, under the direction of Jim Daughters, and the University of Illinois’ Wind Orchestra lead by Beth Peterson and the Hindsley Symphonic Band lead by Barry Houser in an exciting musical extravaganza on December 3rd at 7:30 in the Krannert Center for the Perfoming Arts’ Foellinger Great Hall.   The three bands’ performance will highlight the diverse musical personalities of Henry Fillmore and his extraordinary influence on America’s early wind band traditions.  Missy, recreating the memorable role of Mike, the radio hound, will give her debut performance of two unique musical works written by Henry Fillmore that were made famous by Mike’s performances with the Fillmore Band between 1925 and 1932.  Missy’s performance pays special tribute to memory of Mike who brought tremendous joy to Fillmore and the many people who were fortunate enough to hear the radio hound in live performance.   Admission to the December 3rd concert is $10,  $7, and $4.

For those interested in learning more about Henry Fillmore’s legacy, a special lecture given by Jim Daughters on December 2nd at the Sousa Archives and Center for American Music will start at 3pm.  The December 2nd lecture is Free and open to the general public.  For further information on the lecture and concert contact the Sousa Archives and Center for American Music at 217-333-4577 or email sousa@illinois.edu.