Shepherd University’s Department of Music participated in The Opera Camerata of Washington’s production of Lehar’s “The Merry Widow” on Oct. 8 at the Austrian Embassy in Washington, D.C.

Eleven SU faculty, students and alumni performed in front of an audience of 400. The students, who came highly recommended from the department, sang in the chorus, performed in the orchestra and even selected other individuals to make up the orchestra.

The DOM’s relationship with the Opera Camerata dates back to 2007. Stephen Czarkowski, assisting conductor and personnel manager for the company, came to SU in 2003 but has worked with the company since 2006.

“We want to bring as many Shepherd students to Washington, D.C., to give them as much experience as possible,” Czarkowski said in a release. “It’s very exciting.”