The River City Brass Band has commissioned one of its own members to compose a work honoring the city of Pittsburgh on its 250th anniversary. Flugelhorn player Drew Fennell will write a piece to be performed in November.

Other features of the band's upcoming 2008-09 season include a collaboration with tap dancer Shelly Oliver and a concert with a program created by audience suggestions.

Each performance with the band's 28 musicians is conducted by music director Denis Colwell. Concerts take place at Gateway High School, Carson Middle School, Palace Theatre, Pasquerilla Arts Center, Upper St. Clair Theater, Byham Theater (except for Heinz Hall on Dec. 4) and Bethel Park High School:

• September: "Shall We Dance," with tap dancer Shelley Oliver.

• October: "Anthem For America" -- patriotic marches, songs and hymns.

• November: "Birth Of A Great City" -- a musical birthday party for Pittsburgh.

• December: "And The Angels Sing," with high school choral groups.

• March 2009: "Brazen Overtures -- highlighted by opera overtures.

• April: "Strike Up the Band" -- big band era music.

• May: "By Popular Demand" -- Program by audience request.

Full season subscriptions range from $86 to $187. For exact concert dates call 412-434-7222 or 800-292-7222.

-- Post-Gazette classical music critic Andrew Druckenbrod