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Whether you celebrate Halloween or not, there is no denying that the end of October is a time when many don masks and costumes after dark in the pursuit of fun.

In keeping with the fall festivities, the Kenai Peninsula Orchestra, in conjunction with the Central Peninsula Community Orchestra, will present a seasonal, family-themed concert. "Haunting Melodies" will take place Saturday at 3 p.m. at the Renee C. Henderson Auditorium in Kenai.

"Basically, it will be an orchestra concert with a light side to it," said Tammy Maturro, of the Kenai Peninsula Orchestra.

Much of the music to be played will have a theme appropriate to the holiday, but all in good taste.

"It's all fun, we're not doing anything scary," Maturro said.

The first half of the presentation will include festive pieces such as "The Curse of the Rosin Eating Zombies," "The House of the Untold Horrors," and "Pirates of the Caribbean: Dean Man's Chest."

There will be a brief intermission with snacks for sale, then the show will continue.

"The second half of the presentation will be more legitimate concert pieces, appropriate to the October season," Matturo said.

Some of these pieces include "Toccata and Fugue in D minor" by Bach, "Funeral March" by Chopin, and "Ride of the Valkyries" by Wagner, to name just a few.

There will also be special appearance by masked character throughout the presentation.

"Throughout the concert a phantom will attempt to take over the concert, and in the end the phantom will succeed and conduct a few pieces," Matturo said.

As part of getting into the spirit of the season, everyone in attendance should consider dressing up.

"The orchestra will also be in costumes, and we're encouraging everyone -- kids and adults -- to come in costumes," Matturo said. "There will be a discount for those who do."

Theatergoers will also be able to trick-or-treat after the concert, Matturo added.

Tickets are available at Charlottes Restaurant and River City Books. Admission rates are $12 general, $10 youth (or $5 if in costume), $8 for Raven members, and $25 for the family rate.

For more information, call Laura Norton 299-2453 or Tammy Maturro 283-0781.

Joseph Robertia can be reached at joseph.robertia@peninsulaclarion.com.