Daniel Asia has been selected to write a piece for the ensemble Czech Nonet.

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● The University of Arizona's faculty artist series kicks off Sunday with organist Pamela Decker performing a program that mixes newly composed works with classics.

The concert includes the world premiere of a piece by Angela Kraft Cross and Decker's own "El Tigre," described in a press release as an evocation of a tiger's spirit and physicality. Cross' piece, "Homage to Henri Nouwen," is a tribute to theologian Henri Nouwen.

Also on the program are works by Matthew Whitehouse, George Crumb and Olivier Messiaen.

Decker, a 1980 Fulbright scholar, has recorded 10 CDs of works, many of them original compositions. Her music has been performed by musicians in 18 countries.

Decker herself has performed throughout the United States, Canada and Europe.

Sunday's concert begins at 2:30 p.m. at Holsclaw Hall, North Park Avenue and East Speedway. Admission is free; 621-2998.

● Tucson composer Daniel Asia has been tapped by the Barlow Endowment for Music to write a substantive piece for The Czech Nonet.

Asia is only the third American composer to write for the Czech ensemble, which was formed in 1924 and is regarded as the world's longest continuously performing chamber ensemble.

To appreciate how big a deal it is, consider that the Czech Nonet has commissioned works from composers that include Prokofiev, Lutoslawski, Martinu and others.

Asia said the Czech Nonet will perform the piece when it tours North America in 2009 to celebrate its 85th anniversary.

● The Mariachi Divas are making their way back to Tucson this weekend. The popular all-female ensemble will perform at the Desert Diamond Casino, 1100 W. Pima Mine Road, Saturday night.

The Divas continue to grow and evolve in their native Los Angeles with projects that include performing with the Los Angeles Jewish Symphony and celebrating the release of their latest album, "Canciones de Amor," at the L.A. House of Blues in June.

The show starts at 7 p.m., and tickets are $15-$25 through Ticketmaster, 321-1000.