Northwestern music presents band, choir and strings concerts

The Northwestern College music department will present a series of concerts in late April and early May, featuring performances by the Symphonic Band, Women’s Choir and Orchestra, and Jazz Band. All concerts will be held in Christ Chapel and are free and open to the public.

On Friday, April 24, at 7:30 p.m., Northwestern’s Symphonic Band will perform a selection of spring repertoire offered as an expression of praise, while also celebrating the ensemble’s graduating seniors.

On Friday, May 1, at 7:30 p.m., the Women’s Choir and Orchestra will present a joint concert. The Women’s Choir will offer a diverse selection of sacred and traditional works, including Michael Engelhardt’s setting of the 12th-century text “O Antiqui Sancti” by Hildegard von Bingen and a new arrangement by director Cindy Moeller of Edvard Grieg’s “Ave Maris Stella.” Additional highlights include Jeanette Gallant’s a cappella setting of the traditional Acadian tune “Marie Madeleine,” as well as contemporary spirituals such as Patti Drennan’s “Glorious Peace,” Gweneth Walker’s “Were You There?” and Jeffery L. Ames’ “Holy is the Lord.”

At that same concert, the Orchestra will present a program titled “The GOAT” (Greatest of all Time), showcasing some of the most beloved string orchestra composers. Selections will include the lively finale from Tchaikovsky’s “Serenade for Strings,” Mozart’s iconic “Eine Kleine Nachtmusik,” and “Spring” from Vivaldi’s “The Four Seasons.” Additional highlights include music by Aaron Copland, Edward Elgar and Leroy Anderson, as well as contemporary film favorites such as John Powell’s “How to Train Your Dragon.”

At 7:30 p.m. on Saturday, May 2, the Jazz Band will recognize the United States’ 250th anniversary with a concert inspired by classic USO shows of the 1940s. Designed to honor and uplift service members and their communities, the concert will feature well-known big band favorites such as “In the Mood,” “Moonlight Serenade” and “Boogie Woogie Bugle Boy.” The performance will also feature senior trumpet player Josiah Sandstrom and senior vocalist Abbie Jo Segerstrom on the classic ballad “It’s Been a Long, Long Time.”

Northwestern’s music department has a tradition of dynamic performances, outstanding faculty and standout educational experiences in an environment committed to glorifying God. Students can audition for one or more of 10 ensembles, having the opportunity to tour around the world and perform in the award-winning Christ Chapel.