ROCK ISLAND, IL (11/02/2017)-- For the first time in its history, the Augustana Symphony Orchestra will take its act on the road, performing concerts in the Chicago area Nov. 3 and 4.
"Both the band and choir programs here have a long history of touring," said Dr. Daniel Chetel, an assistant professor of music and Augustana's director of orchestral activities. "There's a really strong touring history going back 50, 60, 70 years, and I'm excited for the orchestra to join in on that."
The orchestra's first tour also is an opportunity to share its work with Chicago-area prospective students and families, and with alumni.
The first tour concert at Messiah Lutheran Church in Wauconda will be a joint performance with the Lake Zurich High School Orchestra and Palatine High School Orchestra - both of whose directors are Augustana alumni: Nathan Sackschewsky '06 at Lake Zurich, and Dung Pham '94 at Palatine.
During the day, the Augustana Symphony Orchestra will work with the high school programs before all three combine for the evening's performance.
Kayli Ahuja of Rock Island will perform as part of the Augustana Symphony Orchestra.
Paige Gerhart of Bettendorf will perform as part of the Augustana Symphony Orchestra.
Gabriel Lance of Davenport will perform as part of the Augustana Symphony Orchestra.
Collin Bracey of Blue Grass will perform as part of the Augustana Symphony Orchestra.
Corey Jacobs of Rock Island will perform as part of the Augustana Symphony Orchestra.
Tanner Logan of Moline will perform as part of the Augustana Symphony Orchestra.
Caitlin Thom of Bettendorf will perform as part of the Augustana Symphony Orchestra.
Founded in 1860, Augustana College is a selective four-year residential college of the liberal arts and sciences. The college is recognized for the innovative program Augie Choice, which provides each student up to $2,000 to pursue a high-impact learning experience such as study abroad, an internship or research with a professor. Current students and alumni include 170 Academic All-Americans, two Nobel laureates, 13 college presidents and other distinguished leaders. The college enrolls 2,500 students and is located along one of the world's most important waterways, the Mississippi River, in a community that reflects the diversity of the United States.
