PITT CONCERT TO CELEBRATE MUSIC AND DANCE FROM THE PARLOR TO THE SOCK HOP

PITTSBURGH, April 9 -- A century of music and dance in America will be explored at a concert called "Let's Dance: Music From the Parlor to the Sock Hop" Sunday, April 25 at 2:30 p.m. in the Stephen Foster Memorial Auditorium, Oakland.

Pitt's ensemble-in-residence, Dear Friends, will partner with the Pittsburgh International Folk Theatre to present a historical perspective on the music and popular dances that took place in America's ballrooms from 1844 to the 1950s. A free dance lesson for the audience tops off the evening.

The event takes place during National Dance Week (April 24 - May 2), an appropriate time to witness the evolution of dance from its roots in folk traditions, to its place in the home, parlor and public venue.

Dear Friends is a nationally recognized American Music Ensemble, which performs concerts featuring music for the piano, voice and guitar from the home, stage, ballroom and public square. The Pittsburgh International Folk Theatre is a 45-member professional company with a repertoire of music and dance from around the globe.

Tickets for this concert, sponsored by Pitt's Center for American Music, are $12 for adults, $10 for senior citizens, and $8 for students and children. For reservations or further information, call 412-624-4100.

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