For the past 10 years, Augustana College has been putting on a Christmas concert called Christmas at Augustana. This is an annual tradition that brings together the Augustana Choir, the Jenny Lind Vocal Ensemble, the Augustana Concert Chorale, as well as the Augustana Symphony Orchestra, the Augustana Brass Ensemble and the Augustana Handbell Ensemble to present a program of holiday celebration.
It will take place at Centennial Hall on Saturday, December 1st at 2 pm and 7 pm. Christmas at Augustana will last about 75 minutes and it will include music from each ensemble as well as pieces that combine all of the groups.
“It is such a kinetic experience the first moment everyone is on stage together,” said Daniel Chetel, Director of Orchestral Activities.
Not only will the audience be able to attend this event and enjoy hearing their peer’s musical productions, but they will also have the opportunity to sing along to a few of their favorite Christmas carols accompanied by the organ, the choirs, and the orchestra.
Each year Christmas at Augustana has had a different theme. For their 10th Annual Christmas at Augustana, the theme is “Gloria!”
Dr. Jon Hurty, Director of the Augustana Choir, excitedly shared about the program.
“The biggest piece that our performance includes is called Gloria by John Rutter. We are doing the first movement from the piece which includes all the choirs, orchestra, and brass. It is a very exciting piece and a really great challenge for the students,” he said.
There are over three hundred Augustana students who are involved in this event. They have dedicated their time and talents to prepare for Christmas at Augustana since the second half of fall term. Everyone has been working hard and putting in the extra rehearsals to make this event a glorious experience for everybody. They have put together this performance that includes a lot of music that is upbeat and joyful. There will also be a number of pieces that are slow and beautiful. “It wouldn’t be a Christmas concert without a variety of beautiful carols,” said Hurty.
“It’s a great way to start off the Christmas season,” said Christopher Nelson, who has been the organist for Christmas at Augustana for the last three years.
“Christmas at Augustana is going to be a huge celebration to kick-start the holiday season in the best way we know how. The best way to spread Christmas cheer is by singing loud, for all to hear,” said Ariela Policastro, a first year in the Augustana Choir.
Christmas at Augustana is open for everyone. Tickets are $11.00 and can be purchased through the Augustana Ticket Office. The first performance is already sold out. Proceeds go to fund future expenses of the program.
