Autumn Prelude Gala
4-6 p.m., Sunday October 1
Montebello B&B Inn, 3535 S. 530 Avenue, Ames

Central Iowa Symphony is launching its 20th anniversary in style with an annual gala celebration Sunday, October 1 in Ames.

"Autumn Prelude Gala" will kick off a year of festivities as the community orchestra celebrates its 20th year and the 2006-07 concert season. The gala, the fifth annual event for CIS, will be 4 to 6 p.m. at MonteBello B&B Inn, 3535 S. 530 Avenue, Ames.

The gala will feature music by two ensembles from the orchestra, wine-tasting, anniversary cake and hors d'oeuvres. A short program will offer highlights of the upcoming season as well as a brief look back at the history and legacy of the Central Iowa Symphony.

Special guest will be Ralph Votapek, Gold Medalist of the first Van Cliburn International piano competition and winner of the prestigious Naumburg Award. Votapek is serving a week-long Artist-In-Residence program at Iowa State University which includes three concerts and several master classes. Votapek is professor of piano and artist in residence emeritus at the Michigan State University School of Music.

Votapeks' visit is a collaborative effort of CIS, the Iowa State University Music Department, Ames Town & Gown Chamber Music Association, the Ames International Orchestra Festival Association, and the Iowa State Center. He also will visit Drake University and Graceland University for additional master classes.

To purchase a ticket to the Autumn Prelude Gala, contact CIS co-president Wendy Nutini at 233-5944. Tickets also will be available at the door.