The Moore Philharmonic Orchestra will host a fundraiser dinner at 1 p.m. Sunday, March 8. This event is sponsored by and will be held at the Outback Steak House, 100 Southern Road, Southern Pines, off U.S. 15-501.

For $20 per person, participants will be treated to a full dinner including salad, entre, dessert, coffee, tea and soft drinks, accompanied by chamber music performed live by orchestra members.

"Thanks to the generosity of Outback Steak House, the cost of these tickets will be donated to the Orchestra's Spring Development Fund," said Eric Kopecky, music director and conductor. "The proceeds will support music scholarships, help enrich music education in Moore County, expand the Orchestra's music library, and help cover administrative expenses."

In addition to performing at least three free concerts for the community each season, the Moore Philharmonic hosts an annual solo competition for Moore County instrumental music students in which the winner earns a scholarship and the opportunity to perform a solo accompanied by the Orchestra. This year's winner, Mallory Hayes, will be featured in the Mother's Day Concert May 10 at the Owens Auditorium of Sandhills Community College.

Since 2005, the orchestra has served the Sandhills community, supporting music appreciation and education. It provides an outlet for approximately 50 volunteer musicians to perform varied programs of orchestral literature.

Members include adults and talented college, high and middle school students. It is a nonprofit 501c(3) organization and relies entirely on individual and business contributions to support the Spring Development Fund and to cover general and operating expenses. The orchestra is a member of the Arts Council of Moore County and the Moore County Chamber of Commerce.

For more information or to purchase tickets for the Outback fundraiser dinner, visit the Moore Philharmonic Orchestra Web site at www.mp orchestra.com.