By Daniel Hasko
RIVER FOREST – For the members of the Concordia University Chicago Wind Symphony, spring break is more than simply a diversion from the academic world. While the break is still a much needed relief from the growing amount of school-related responsibilities, for this group of talented musicians, spring break means spring tour. This spring’s ten day tour kicks off on March 4th at St. John’s Lutheran Church in Arnold, MO. The ensemble will play nine concerts throughout its ten day journey that includes stops in Missouri, Arkansas, Texas, Oklahoma, and Illinois.
Under the direction of Dr. Richard Fischer, who has been with Concordia University since 1974, the ensemble will perform a program that truly has a little something for everyone.
“When putting together a program, I always keep in mind the three E’s: Entertainment, Enlightenment, and the Enhancement of faith,” says Fischer.
This concert definitely has a healthy provides a healthy dose of all three. Starting with entertainment, the program features fun, energetic pieces with the likes of Leroy Anderson’s Bugler’s Holiday as well as variations from Start Wars by John Williams, arranged by Donald Hunsberger. Fulfilling the enlightenment category and would be Eternal Father by Claude T. Smith along with Everything Beautiful by Samuel R. Hazo in addition to other uplifting works.
Lastly, the concert incorporates the enhancement of faith by emphasizing the Easter message of our Lord and Savior through the selection Praise Jerusalem by Alfred Reed. The conclusion of this magnificent work transitions nicely into the closing piece, an ensemble favorite, Who Puts His Trust In God Most Just by Johann Sebastian Bach, arranged by James Croft.
Relating these last two pieces of the program, the first of which communicates the triumphant victory of the risen Savior, and the second which emphasizes that all we need to do is confide in the Lord, the transition is phenomenal. The piece, which has the line “He who relies on Jesus Christ shall reach his heaven most surely,” is a foundation for the enhancement of faith. In regards to the transition between the two closing pieces of the concert Fischer says,
“God works through me to put together a wonderful program. I do not take any credit and, with that said, I’m not sure that there could be a better flow between pieces to end the program.”
Looking ahead to the 2016-2017 academic year, new student music scholarship auditions will take place throughout the next few weeks, and the initial outlook is outstanding.
“I couldn’t give exact records, but this is the most auditions that we’ve had in many years…the future is bright,” says Fischer.
That is especially great news for the ensemble as they will waste no time in utilizing the talents of new members as the 2016-2017 school year, which features international trips to China and South Africa in addition to recording their 15th CD.
Dr. Fischer and the members of the Concordia University Chicago Wind Symphony will be hard at work over the next three weeks as they wrap up their preparations for what is sure to be an unforgettable spring tour. For students at the University and supporters of the group residing in the local area, this same outstanding program featured on the spring tour will be played at the ensemble’s home concert Friday, March 18th at 8:00 pm in The Chapel of Our Lord on campus at Concordia University.
“There’s no other group that I would rather work with,” concludes Fischer. “Their faith, personalities, and commitment to music is truly unbelievable.”
Do not miss your chance to hear this wonderful group of people perform a program that is truly appealing to all.
Image courtesy of Daniel Hasko
