Music by one of the greatest composers of the 20th century closes the U of L Faculty Artists and Friends concert series. Homage to Stravinsky on April 4, 8 p.m. in the University Recital Hall, features an array of his masterpieces.

A highlight of the program is Igor Stravinsky's delightful The Soldier's Tale for instrumental ensemble and three speakers.

"This modern folk fable tells how a soldier returning home on leave is tricked by the devil out of his cherished violin, his sweetheart and five years of his life in return for a book that reveals future stock prices," explains Dr. Brian Black. "The soldier becomes immensely wealthy through the magic of the book but yearns for his previous happiness. Finally he decides to confront the devil, defeat him and win back all that he has lost."

Also featured in the concert are Stravinsky's Faun and Shepherdess, the early song cycle that first revealed the composer's genius, a sultry Tango for piano and the Three Pieces for Clarinet, inspired in part by Stravinsky's interest in jazz.

Several Music Department faculty are performing, including: Dr. Sandra Stringer, Margaret Mezei, Trudi Mason, Nick Sullivan, Peter Visentin, Adam Mason, Dr. Thomas Staples and Dr. Deanna Oye.

Joining faculty performers as special guests are some old friends, Dr. George Evelyn as the narrator, Peter Monaghan as the soldier, and some new friends, bassoonist Michael Macaulay and the double bassist George Amorim.

Tickets are $15 regular and $10 student/senior from the U of L Box Office, 403-329-2616.