Sousa, Strauss and a symphony
<p>Robert Singletary plucks at the strings on his stand-up bass during a rehearsal Tuesday with the Panhandle Symphony Orchestra.</p>
<p>Eric Haakenson balances his tuba while providing the low-end sound from the brass section during a rehearsal Tuesday with the Panhandle Symphony Orchestra.</p>
<p>Tim Sandford, the Lake City High School instrumental director, provides the pacing Tuesday for the orchestra rehearsing "A Night in Paris" during run-through for Friday's concert at the Kroc Center.</p>
<p>AJ Sheffield reads his sheet music while playing the trombone.</p>
COEUR d'ALENE - Janet Haakenson and her violin are ready to rock - along with the other 50 members of the Panhandle Symphony Orchestra.
"We are excited, ready to go," said Haakenson, president of the nonprofit.
The Panhandle Symphony Orchestra, formerly the Fort Sherman Symphonette, will present its free fall concert at 7:30 p.m. Friday at the Kroc Center.
The 50-member orchestra, under the direction of Tim Sandford, will play a variety of music in an hourlong program.
"Don't be late," Haakenson said while laughing.
Some of the featured composers will be John Philip Sousa, Johann Strauss and Rodgers and Hammerstein. Two movements of Dvorak's "Symphony in E Minor from the New World" will be included.
This is one of two annual concerts the group puts on, with the other in April.
Haakenson said the all-volunteer musicians form a close-knit group that enjoys performing together.
"We play good music to the best of each member's ability and have fun," she said. "There's camaraderie in the pieces - and food at break time," she added with a laugh.
Haakenson, a 1953 Coeur d'Alene High School graduate, is hoping the 400-seat Kroc Center auditorium is packed.
She said the audience will hear a variety of light classics.
While the concert is free, donations will be accepted. The Panhandle Symphony Orchestra, like most nonprofits, is struggling financially and could use sponsors.
"This concert doesn't have a sponsor," Haakenson said.
Their only expenses are rental space for rehearsals and performances, and for a conductor.
"We've been able to make ends meet each time," she said.
Information: Haakenson, 762-1572