Benjamin McKay to perform in Augustana Symphonic Band 2016 Tour concert

2016 Feb 8

The Augustana College Symphonic Band will perform throughout the Midwest and Colorado as part of the band's 2016 tour, beginning in the Chicago suburbs and continuing west to Kansas City, Hays, Kansas and Denver. The band will return for a home concert at 8 p.m. on Saturday, March 12, in Augustana's Centennial Hall (3703 7th Avenue). Admission for all concerts is free, and a freewill offering will be accepted.

Their performance program is by contemporary artists with different styles and messages. The reverent tone of Kevin M. Walczyk's "Eloi, Eloi" is intended to mimic the act of prayer; the piece was composed in remembrance of the tragic earthquake in Japan in 2011. "Firefly," composed by Ryan George, is an enchanting piece illustrating a child's imagination. The concert will close with a symphony based on the ancient story of Odysseus, by John Mackey.

The Augustana Symphonic Band is the college's oldest ensemble, established in 1874 as the Silver Cornet Band. Currently under the direction of Dr. James Lambrecht, the band is composed of more than 60 student musicians with academic majors across the liberal arts. Among these students is Benjamin McKay of Rock Island (61201).