>> View the Gallery      >> Watch the Quicktime Video 2005-2006 wavelength Kick-off Concert & Event      Chopin & Breakdancing   Olga Kern's Chopin 1   Saturday, October 8, 2005, 8 PM   On Saturday, October 8, Jones Hall and the Houston Symphony will witness two unlikely appearances –   young   audiences and…break dancing. As the first concert of a new youth program entitled wavelength, the   evening of   music and dance will break fresh and innovative ground. Pushing the boundaries of a typical Symphonic experience, the concert on the 8th – “Olga Kern’s Chopin 1” - will be followed by a party for members to feature a performance by local hip hop and break dancers. Performers from Shawn Welling's Planet Funk Dance Troupe will move to music selections that incorporate classical themes, in addition to modern dance beats. The locally and nationally recognized dance troupe, led by Director Shawn Welling, is excited to partner with the Symphony for the first time. Katie Haught, a student at University of St. Thomas, says that “wavelength is something different and a refreshing change of pace. It makes the Symphony more accessible and fun for younger audiences. You’re surrounded by your peers – it’s a much more comfortable experience.” The wavelength program, now in its infancy, has been started with the aim of bringing young patrons back to Jones Hall. People ages 15-29 are free to join at no cost, and become eligible to purchase $8 tickets to select classical and pops performances throughout the season. But wavelength’s goal isn’t just to sell tickets – it’s to provide exciting and relevant cultural experiences to Houston’s high school, college, and young professional markets. The October 8th event, to also be attended by Symphony musicians and staff, will begin to build excitement for a new initiative that bridges the gap between traditional classical music and the current generation of music lovers.