Since 1967, Central Oregon has enjoyed orchestral music through the programs of Central Oregon Community College. To honor this success, the Central Oregon Symphony Association (COSA) will celebrate the 50th anniversary of its classical music in the high desert during the 2016-17 concert season.  In addition to the regular concert performances featuring some of the favorite guest artists from past years, COSA is preparing a history booklet and hosting a reunion dinner in appreciation of past and present orchestra members. To top it off, a commemorative orchestra composition, “Cascades,” has been commissioned from composer James Barnes.

The warm-up for the anniversary season is the 2nd annual Beat Beethoven’s 5th 5k & 1 mile race. It will take place Aug. 21, 2016 at the COCC campus track in Bend.  All registered participants will receive a tuxedo design t-shirt, raffle ticket and a symphony ticket voucher.The object of the race is for 5k runners to finish before the end of Beethoven’s 5th Symphony (broadcast over loud speakers) – about 33 minutes.  If you can run 5k before Beethoven’s Fifth Symphony ends, you beat Beethoven. The race concludes with a live performance by the Summit Express Jazz Band.

All 5k finishers will receive ribbons that say “I Beat Beethoven” or “Beethoven Beat Me.” There’s a costume contest, prizes for 5k M&F winners, a kids race, live music after the symphony ends, food/drink, an amazing raffle, an appearance by Beethoven himself and lots of fun. Check out the race website: www.beatbeethoven5k.com for more information and ways to sign up.