Swamp Symphony returns to Flavet Field Oct. 28

October 15, 2012

GAINESVILLE, Fla. — The University of Florida College of Fine Arts and UF Homecoming will collaborate for the second year to host Swamp Symphony from 5:30 to 8 p.m. Oct. 28 on Flavet Field.

The concert is sponsored by Gainesville Television Network and VisitGainesville.

“Homecoming isn’t just about football — it’s about all aspects of the University of Florida,” said Hannah Swerdloff, the general chair for Homecoming. Swamp Symphony will also serve as a pillar event for UF’s participation in National Arts and Humanities Month celebrations this year.

Swamp Symphony is a live, outdoor concert that has something for everyone, including performances by the UF Symphony Orchestra, University Gospel Choir, UF Concert Choir, Men’s Glee Club, UF Jazz Bands, Agbedidi African Drum, Dance Ensemble and many more.

This year’s Homecoming theme is “United We Growl,” and the concert’s program includes a tribute to armed forces, Rossini’s famed “William Tell Overture” and other works guaranteed to lift the audience’s spirits. Traditional UF songs will be played by a full orchestra and various vocal ensembles, including “Orange and Blue,” “Alma Mater” and “We Are The Boys.”

This event also features Education Celebration awards for outstanding faculty contributions to UF. The awards include the Homecoming Outstanding Faculty Award and the Homecoming Outstanding Mentor of Undergraduate Research Award.

Also, in celebration of the 150th anniversary of the Morrill Act, Florida Blue Key is introducing the 150th Anniversary Morrill Act Award. Hanna Gehr, director of Education Celebration, said, “The 150th anniversary of the Morrill Act should be recognized because this act essentially provided access to higher education for ordinary Americans, the sons and daughters of working class families, at a time when attending a university was only possible for a privileged few.”

The campus and community are invited to attend this free event and to bring picnic blankets, lawn chairs and tailgating games. No tickets or reservations are required and all performances are family friendly.