The music department’s next installment of a popular concert series will continue Thursday with a performance of “Four Last Songs” and “Bright Light!”

The next in the “Rush Hour” concerts will spotlight Jane Olian, and Jeffery Hoover’s brass ensemble.

Acting chair of the music department, Kirk Smith, said the “Rush Hour” concert series is popular because of its convenient 5:10 p.m. start time.

“People can go before they go home, or to dinner, after they are done with class or work. The concert lasts about an hour,” Smith said.

“The concerts are equally popular with teachers and students,” Smith added.

He said it is convenient for faculty to come from their offices and not have to worry about going home and changing first, because dress is casual.

Olian comes to Iowa State from New York, where she teaches at New York University, the Aaron Copland School of Music/Queens College, and the Manhattan School of Music Preparatory Division. Olian is also on the faculty of several other music schools, including the Westminster Conservatory of Music/Westminster Choir College. She will also be providing a voice master class for Iowa State vocal students while in Ames.

Olian’s list of previous engagements and awards is prestigious and includes the title role of Mozart’s “Zaide” with the Rockland Camerata, a celebrated tour of the Midwest with the Minnesota Opera, with a role in “Madame Butterfly,” and several well-known music festivals.

During the performances of Hoover’s “Bright Light!,” audiences view slides of his paintings, combining his music and his art.

Hoover is founder and Music Director of New Music Today, and promotes work that brings together the audience, composer, and musicians.

Hoover is Chairman of Fine, Performing and Applied Arts at Illinois Central College.

His compositions have been recognized with awards and honors including the Trieste prize.

The “Rush Hour” concert on Nov. 7 is scheduled to take place in the Music Hall Recital Hall.