NWC Symphonic Band to present "March Madness!" concert

“March Madness!” will be the theme of Northwestern College’s Symphonic Band concert on Friday, March 12, at 7:30 p.m. in Christ Chapel. The concert is free and open to the public.

The concert will follow a short spring break tour in which the ensemble will perform for schools in northwest Iowa and Omaha and serve at the Omaha Open Door Mission.

A variety of marches will be interspersed throughout the concert, including Sousa’s “Washington Post,” which will be conducted by senior music major Joel Van Peursem. The repertoire will include works by composers Malcolm Arnold and Alfred Reed in commemoration of the 100th anniversary of their births. Also on the program is Eric Whitacre’s “Lux Aurumque,” which means “light and gold” and was selected by director Dr. Angela Holt because of its tie-in to Northwestern’s motto, God is Light.

 “The Symphonic Band members and I are grateful to have the opportunity for God’s light to shine through us as we share our music,” says Holt, who serves as Northwestern’s director of instrumental studies and music education. “This will be a fun evening with a wide variety of dynamic pieces on the program.”

In order to prioritize the safety of the musicians and the audience members, masks will be required for the event. Physical distancing will be encouraged as families will be seated together in groups no larger than three persons.

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.