ROCK ISLAND, Ill. — The Augustana Symphonic Band, originally established in 1874 as the Augustana Silver Cornet Band, is celebrating its 150th anniversary with a special weekend-long event, scheduled for Nov. 22-24.
As the oldest continually performing ensemble at Augustana College and one of the oldest wind ensembles in the United States, the band has played a significant role in the college's history and the Quad Cities community.
The sesquicentennial celebration is expected to draw more than 500 alumni, friends, students and community members from across the nation. The weekend’s events will include:
- A celebration concert, featuring the premiere of "Symphony No. 6: Color of Stars" by American composer Kevin Walczyk, conducted by Symphonic Band director Dr. James Lambrecht
- An alumni band performance, reuniting former members
- A presentation on the history of Augustana's wind bands
- A panel discussion featuring alumni working in the music industry
For more information about the event or to reserve tickets, visit Augustana's website.
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