The Rogue Valley Symphonic Band is bringing the Halloween spirit to audiences with its “Phantom Fantastique” concert, featuring music from classical and contemporary composers ranging from Mozart and Bach to John Williams and more.

The performance also marks the debut of new artistic director Alex Gonzalez conducting the symphonic band.

“Even though I’ve only known these fine musicians for just around four months, I can pretty clearly state that this has already become one of the most joyous ensembles I’ve ever worked with,” Gonzalez said of the group.

“Phantom Fantastique” is scheduled for 3 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 20, at Oakdale Middle School, located at 815 S. Oakdale Ave. in Medford.

Tickets are $20, $15 for seniors, and $5 for children, students and Oregon Trail Card holders. Tickets are available online at roguevalleysymphonicband.org or at the door. Fitting in the spooky theme, the organization will offer free admission for kids 18 and younger wearing Halloween costume.

Gonzalez joined the Rogue Valley Symphonic Band in August, bringing with him a plethora of experience in the music world.

He is currently also the director of bands for Southern Oregon University, teaching music pedagogy and conducting the college’s wind ensemble and jazz band.

Gonzalez has also worked as a conductor, band director and educator at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, Capital University Conservatory of Music and Hillsborough Community College.

As artistic director, Gonzalez has enjoyed his role with the symphonic band and connecting with the wide range of players.

“We have some amazing amateur players, and that sound carries through all the ranks,” he said. “For me, conducting is the art of speechless communication on behalf of the composer whose piece we are performing.”

Following the Halloween theme, the concert will feature a mix of classical pieces and modern music to engage listeners of all ages.

Some of the newer tunes include “La Llorona” from Disney’s animated film “Coco,” “Alex and the Phantom Band” adapted from “The Thirteenth Hour” by Kathryn Maslanka and music from iconic film score composer John Williams.

“I’m excited to see (rehearsals) translate in the first performance with the group and how dedicated they are … some do this on the side, to see dedication and passion and commitment every week to give this to the audience and Rogue Valley community, I can’t wait to see how that looks and sounds for the first time,” Gonzalez said.

The excitement is shared by the Rogue Valley Symphonic Band President Shirley Donnelly.

“What excited me most is, No. 1, we’ve got a gem of a conductor,” Donnelly said. “I’m really excited about Alex and the program.”

The Rogue Valley Symphonic Band is a select group of musicians across Southern Oregon and Northern California, with the nonprofit organization performing a wide range of music at venues in the Rogue Valley.

To learn more about the band, visit roguevalleysymphonicband.org.