Date:28/09/2008 URL: http://www.thehindu.com/2008/09/28/stories/2008092853190500.htm

Karnataka - Mysore

Symphony orchestra to perform on October 3

Special Correspondent

MYSORE: The Air Warrior Symphony Orchestra of the Indian Air Force will perform for the first time during the Mysore Dasara in front of the illuminated palace on October 3 from 5.30 p.m. to 7 p.m.

The 70-member band will showcase talent of the IAF personnel which is quite different to those associated with the skills for flying.

The orchestra, a regular feature at the Rashtrapati Bhavan in Delhi which is also the residence of the Supreme Commander of the Defence forces, will play against a new background and among a different milieu here. For those who have savoured the Police Band which has been a regular feature in Mysore Dasara, the performance of Air Warrior Symphony Orchestra will be something to look forward to.

The orchestra features an assortment of musical instruments including keyboards, guitar and violin. It has a wide repertoire of music ranging from waltz to light classical and patriotic songs. Incidentally, the IAF is the only air force in the world which has a full-fledged band of musicians and a professional orchestra.

The performance of the orchestra was confirmed by the Deputy Commissioner P. Manivannan, when he briefed media persons on the other arrangements for Dasara here on Friday.