The heat in the University Recital Hall will go up several degrees with the Faculty Artist and Friends first concert of the season, Tango~Waltz~Tango, on Oct. 3 at 8 p.m. Sizzling melodies, hot rhythms and rich instrumentation will get audience hearts pounding and toes tapping.

"There's been a revival of these dances in popular culture recently," Dr. Deanna Oye, Faculty Artist and Friends Series coordinator and music faculty, says. "The spirit of these two dances compliment each other nicely – both are elegant, but tell different stories. The waltz is amorous, while the tango is boldly passionate."

"The etudes of Astor Piazzolla are performed by a jazz ensemble featuring tenor saxophonist, Dr. David Renter," Oye adds.

The finale of Le Cumparsita, a tango of the 1900s, will also dazzle audiences. As well, a unique arrangement of the Liebeslieder Waltzes by Brahms for piano duo and vocal quartet is on the program.

This year's Faculty Artist and Friends Series highlights the talents and musicianship of U of L music faculty and their guests.

Dale Ketcheson inspires audiences with his classical guitar pieces on Nov. 7.

On Jan. 30, 2010 a celebration of great composers will present a program of music from masters Schumann and Chopin, on the occasion of their 200th birthdays.

The final concert in the series, An American in Paris, features the U of L Faculty Brass Quintet, consisting of Trudi Mason (trumpet), Keith Griffioen (trumpet), Dr. Thomas Staples (horn), Gerald Rogers (trombone) and Nick Sullivan (bass trombone). The concert, on April 17, 2010, includes a mélange of French-inspired music and American blues.

Season tickets for the series are available at a 25 per cent discount – simply put, buy three get one free. Individual tickets are $15 for regular admission and $10 student/senior. The season ticket price is four performances for $45 regular and $30 student/senior.

Season tickets are available through Oct. 3 from the Box Office (404-329-2616).