Premiere Marimba Quartet Joins Reading Pops Orchestra for Performance at Kutztown University Nov. 7

KUTZTOWN, Pa. – The Heartland Marimba Quartet (HMQ) will join Reading Pops Orchestra for a unique performance at 7:30 p.m., Monday, Nov. 7, at Schaeffer Auditorium at Kutztown University. HMQ is North America’s premiere marimba quartet and the primary performing ensemble of Heartland Marimba, a non-profit organization dedicated to developing and disseminating the classical art form in communities throughout the world. Reading Pops Orchestra is a professional 55-piece orchestra comprised of musicians throughout Pennsylvania.

The marimba is a revered musical percussion instrument that consists of wooden bars that are struck by mallets. Established in 2016 through the vision and leadership of internationally acclaimed marimba soloist Matthew Coley, HMQ seeks to pursue a platform for the music of American composers in its programming and continues to expand its repertoire with works from composers worldwide. HMQ’s pieces include both original works written for marimba and well-known tunes adapted for the instrument.

The Reading Pops Orchestra, under the direction of Dr. Willis Rapp, will join the second half of the concert for music by Joplin and Gottschalk. Attendees will enjoy sounds inspired by nature, video games and ragtime to celebrate this mallet percussion instrument that is played throughout the world.

To purchase tickets, please visit www.KutztownPresents.org or call the KU Presents! Box Office 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., Tuesday through Thursday, at 610-683-4092.

Established to be the center of cultural life at Kutztown University, KU Presents! serves the campus and community by bringing world-class live arts that entertain, educate and enrich.

For more information, please visit https://www.kutztown.edu/about-ku/administrative-offices/ku-presents/2022-2023-season/heartland-marimba.html.