Rehearsals are demanding but excitement is high as the Wichita State University Symphony Orchestra and Symphonic Wind Ensemble prepare for their premiere performance in New York City’s Carnegie Hall at 1 p.m. Monday, May 30, in the world-famous hall’s Isaac Stern Auditorium.

A celebratory reception for the students and music faculty, and featuring special guests WSU President Don and Shirley Beggs, is slated for 4-6 p.m. Sunday, May 29, at the Grand Hyatt Hotel in New York City.

Here's how you can obtain concert tickets and/or reception reservations:

For tickets: Special rates are offered for tickets ordered before May 5. To use a credit card to order, please call CarnegieCharge at (212) 247-7800 or purchase online via CarnegieCharge. There is a $6 per ticket service charge. To purchase $95 tickets for $75, use discount code MAP10508. The full range of ticket prices through CarnegieCharge is $95, $57 or $35. The $35 tickets are for seats that have no elevator access.

For reception reservations: Email Connie White at the WSU Alumni Association at connie.white@wichita.edu. There is no charge for the reception. In addition to Don and Shirley Beggs, other university personalities who will be special guests in attendance include Mark Laycock, orchestra conductor; Vic Markovich, wind ensemble conductor; Gary Miller, provost and vice president of academic affairs and research; and Rodney Miller, dean of the College of Fine Arts.

To help out: The School of Music will continue to raise funds for the trip to New York City. A gift of any amount will be appreciated or donors can opt to “Adopt-a-Student” for $1,000. All amounts are tax-deductible.

Make checks payable to WSU Foundation/Orchestra Enrichment Fund and mail to the WSU Foundation, 1845 Fairmount, Wichita, KS 67260-0002. You can also use a credit card by indicating the name of the card, its expiration date and the correct cardholder name.