‘Picnic with the Buckeyes’ concert with the Columbus Symphony Orchestra will move to Mershon Auditorium

COLUMBUS – The sounds of wind, string and percussion instruments will envelop Mershon Auditorium, 1871 N. High St., at 6 p.m. Tuesday (10/7) when the Columbus Symphony Orchestra presents a free concert for The Ohio State University community. The doors will open for seating at 5 p.m.

“Picnic with the Buckeyes,” is an opportunity for Ohio State faculty, staff and returning students to join in welcoming the university’s first-year and new transfer students to the Columbus campus. Families and friends also are invited.

Sponsored by the Office of Undergraduate Admissions and First Year Experience (UAFYE), the event was originally planned as an outdoor concert and picnic on the Oval. Unseasonably cold temperature has moved the event inside. Because of the limited seating capacity in Mershon, a viewing screen will be set up on the outdoor plaza to accommodate additional guests. No food or beverages can be taken into the auditorium.

Mabel Freeman, assistant vice president for UAFYE, said the event represents more than a social gathering.

“Our research has shown that helping students find solid connections to the university and the Columbus community plays a key role in retaining them beyond their first year,” Freeman said. “We also feel strongly that exposing students early to different experiences, such as the cultural arts, and doing so outside a typical classroom setting, is important to their educational experience.”

CSO Associate Conductor Peter Stafford Wilson will lead guests through an arrangement of familiar Ohio State songs and noted classical selections. WCMH television co-anchor Cabot Rea will host the event.

Steve Crawford, coordinator in UAFYE, said the change in venue will not alter the focus or benefits of the concert.

“The Columbus Symphony Orchestra is an integral part of the cultural arts in Columbus,” Crawford said. “We are extremely grateful that the symphony has agreed to perform on our campus.”

A highlight of the 90-minute concert will include a selection by composer Aaron Copland titled “Lincoln Portrait” that will feature a narration by Ohio State Poet Laureate David Citino.

For additional information, contact Crawford at (614) 292-3324.