The Santa Barbara Chamber Players Orchestra invites the community to an evening of music, 7:30 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 12 at First United Methodist Church, 305 E. Anapamu St., Santa Barbara.

The performance, conducted by Mary Beth Rhodes-Woodruff, will feature a mix of contemporary and classical works, including the lively “Romanian Folk Dances” by Béla Bartók; two inspiring pieces by local composer Grace Fisher, “Waltz of the Waves” and “A Critter Fable; and Beethoven’s Symphony No. 3 “Eroica.”

The program will open with “Romanian Folk Dances,” a set of six pieces filled with the rich melodies and rhythms of Eastern European folk music.

As part of the Santa Barbara Chamber Players’ commitment to nurturing young local talent, high school musicians will join the professionals for “Romanian Dances.”

Next up will be the two compositions by Fisher. Her “Waltz of the Waves” captures the ebb and flow of the ocean, and her “A Critter Fable” is a charming musical tale that brings the playful world of animals to life.

Fisher is a composer, artist and filmmaker whose story has inspired many people, particularly in the Santa Barbara community.

After a rare neurological illness left her paralyzed, Fisher turned to composition, creating music filled with imagination and emotion.

Through the Grace Fisher Foundation, she works to ensure that children of all abilities can access the joy of creative expression, offering programs in adaptive arts across Santa Barbara.

The evening will finish with Beethoven’s iconic Symphony No. 3, “Eroica,” a celebration of the human spirit, evoking bold, heroic themes and revolutionary emotion.

Tickets are $20 for general admission, free for students ages 18 years and younger. For ticket information and to stay updated on the Santa Barbara Chamber Players, visit sbchamberplayers.org.