Augustana Symphonic Band to celebrate 150 years in November

The Augustana Symphonic Band (formerly the Augustana Concert Band) will celebrate its 150th anniversary during a weekend-long celebration Nov. 22-24, 2024.

Established in 1874 as the Augustana Silver Cornet Band, the ensemble is the oldest continually performing ensemble on campus and one of the oldest wind ensembles in the United States.

The sesquicentennial event is expected to draw more than 500 alumni, friends, community members and students from the Quad-Cities community and nationwide. The weekend will include a celebration concert with the premiere of "Symphony No. 6: Color of Stars," a commission by American composer Kevin Walczyk, conducted by Symphonic Band director Dr. James Lambrecht; an alumni band performance; a presentation on the history of Augustana's wind bands; and a panel discussion with alumni in the music industry.

"I can't wait to hear the world premiere of Kevin Walczyk's piece, but spending time with classmates that I haven't seen in years might be even more exciting for me," said Randy Micheletti '98, chair of the event planning committee. "My experience in the music department was more than just academics, more than just a club. It was a family, focused on our development as kind, thoughtful humans."

"It has been gratifying to observe the tremendous growth of Augustana's band program," said Jerry Johansen '68, planning committee member and, with wife Judy Pitzer '71 Johansen, supporter of the newly established Band Sesquicentennial Endowed Fund. "The music department, like other departments at Augustana, helps students grow into thinking and well-rounded individuals."

For a full schedule of events, or if you would like to give to the Band Sesquicentennial Endowed Fund, visit augustana.edu/band150.