A composition by Dr. Michael F. Murray, professor of music at Missouri State University, will reach international audiences this fall. Entitled “Tempest Fantasy,” Murray’s composition for string orchestra will be performed by the Moravian Philharmonic Orchestra in Olomouc, Czech Republic, in September, with a recording of that performance released by PARMA Recordings in a compilation of modern orchestra music in 2013.

“Tempest Fantasy” is based on music Murray originally composed for Missouri State’s production of “The Tempest” in 2000. He completed the orchestra piece in fall 2011. “The Tempest” is considered one of Shakespeare’s most musical plays.

“Much of the music in the ‘Fantasy’ is based on tunes sung by the character Ariel, an ‘airy spirit’ who is under Prospero’s authority and who employs magic to carry out his master’s plots,” said Murray.

Murray will travel to Olomouc in September to attend the recording session. The Moravian Philharmonic Orchestra will perform the piece under the direction of Petr Vronsky.

For more information, contact Murray at (417) 836-4250 or MikeMurray@missouristate.edu.

Courtesy Missouri State’s Office of University Communications