Matanuska-Susitna Orchestra holding concert Sunday

PALMER — The Matanuska-Susitna Orchestra is holding a concert at the Glenn Massay Theater from 3 to 5 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 19.

The concert will feature five musical suites: "Capriol Suite" by Peter Warlock, "The Holberg Suite" by Edvard Grieg, "Carmen Suite" by George Bizet, "Polovtsian Dances," by Alexander Borodin, and "American Suite" by Antonin Dvorak.

The concert will also serve as a fundraiser for Clear Creek Cat Rescue, a local nonprofit dedicated to finding homes for cats.

Matanuska Susitna Orchestra conductor Kate Patterson said that all their concerts act as fundraisers for local causes, and there's time dedicated during each event for the designated group to talk to the audience and raise awareness for whatever they're working on. She said that supporting local endeavors is part of their main mission, referring to their tagline: "making music make a difference."

"We do the best we can,” Patterson said.

Patterson said they typically hold four concerts during their musical season. She said they always hold a concert during Colony Christmas. The Orchestra is set to perform a concert in April to help Colony High School's marching band raise funds for their upcoming trip to Ireland.

"It makes us feel good," Patterson said.

The Matanuska-Susitna Orchestra is an all volunteer group of musicians of all ages and abilities. Patterson said their total membership count fluctuates throughout the year and they have an average of 20 to 30 musicians participating. She said they all share a common love for their craft and making a positive impact in the community.

"We simply are a group of people who love making music,” Patterson said.

Patterson said the Orchestra is always seeking additional members, particularly string players.

For more information, visit matsuorchestra.org.

Contact Mat-Su Valley Frontiersman reporter Jacob Mann at jacob.mann@frontiersman.com