BILOXI - Music, poetry and visual images will combine to celebrate the science of the seven seas at 7 p.m., April 8, at The University of Southern Mississippi's Scott Aquarium.

The multimedia program "Seascapes" will feature performers from the University's School of Music in combinations of string quartets, oboe and piano, some vocal music and a saxophone duo. They will present selections by Saint Saenz, Schubert, Jacobi and other composers.

"We have about 12 performers who will be playing a variety of types of music, all related to the ocean or water in some respect," said Dr. Jay Dean, music director and conductor of the symphony orchestra at Southern Miss. "Most of the music is classical with at least one folk selection."

Original video of the Gulf of Mexico, recorded by the university's broadcast services, will accompany the performance. The hour-long program will also feature Dr. Angela Ball, professor of English, reading sea-related poetry. A reception will follow the performance.

Dean said the event grew from an idea presented by Dr. Jay Grimes, Southern Miss provost, for immersing an audience in a sound-and-sight celebration of the oceans. Grimes is the former dean of the university's College of Marine Sciences, which includes the Scott Aquarium.

"The J.L. Scott Marine Education Center and Aquarium has given Southern Miss the distinction of national leadership in marine education for many years," Grimes said. "One of the hallmarks of Scott Aquarium programs is the use of all disciplines -- including music -- and all the senses to introduce people young and old to the wonders of the sea. 'Seascapes' continues this proud tradition and synergy."

Grimes added, "We are excited that the college and the aquarium are co-hosting this event that features musicians from our internationally acclaimed School of Music and a distinguished poet from our prestigious Center for Writers."

"Seascapes" is the fifth in the 2003 Gulf Coast Ambassador Series, musical events provided through a colaboration between Southern Miss on the coast and the Southern Miss School of Music.

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