Boise State Orchestra pairs classic composers with film scores for Halloween show

Boise State University’s Symphony Orchestra presents its annual Halloween concert on Wednesday, October 28, at 7:30 p.m. in the Morrison Center main hall. The event, titled “Of Stage and Screen,” combines classical compositions with popular film music. Admission costs $15 for general entry, while students, faculty, and staff holding a Boise State ID may attend for free.

Director Chris Purdy has led this tradition for nearly thirty years. He views the Morrison Center as one of the finest performance spaces in the Northwest. The program spans centuries, ranging from 18th-century arias to recent cinematic scores. This mix allows the orchestra to showcase both historical repertoire and modern arrangements for a diverse audience.

The concert highlights the work of John Williams. A medley arranged by Paul Lavender closes the show, featuring themes from “Jaws,” “Harry Potter,” and “E.T.” The program also includes pieces by Jacques Offenbach and Camille Saint-Saëns. These selections reflect the dual focus of the theme, bridging the gap between traditional stage performances and on-screen storytelling.

Three faculty members join the ensemble as soloists. Matt Castner will perform on the alto saxophone. Dr. Kramer Milan will play the vibraphone. Professor Chris Amirati, the bass instructor, will also participate. Their involvement demonstrates the collaborative nature of the university’s music department, bringing together different disciplines for the holiday event.

Eliot DeHaven, the winner of the 2026 Concerto-Aria Competition, performs as a vocalist. He will sing Mozart’s “Hai già vinta la causa!” and Charles Gounod’s “Ô sainte médaille… Avant de quitter ces lieux.” DeHaven described the experience of singing with the full orchestra as special, noting that he feels like part of the group rather than just a soloist. He praised the talent and receptiveness of his fellow musicians.

Cameron Edwards, the principal cellist, emphasized the value of live performance in the current digital age. He argued that technology cannot replace the beauty of art. Edwards suggested that audiences need to take time away from social media and constant communication to experience live music. This perspective aligns with the event’s goal of fostering a shared emotional expression among attendees.

Orchestra members often wear matching Halloween-themed attire to keep the atmosphere light. Edwards noted that seeing the costumes makes the performance feel more fun for the audience. The group works to project sound to the back of the two-thousand-person hall while maintaining a cohesive blend. This technical challenge is a regular part of performing in the Morrison Center’s acoustics.

The “Spooktacular” serves as a preview for the orchestra’s next major event. The group will perform its Annual Holiday Concert on November 12 at 6:30 p.m. The current program offers a free opportunity for campus community members to engage with classical music in a festive setting.