Spring ensemble tours deepen performance skills
This spring, the Augustana Symphonic Band traveled the Midwest, performing concerts in Galesburg, Ill.; Overland Park, Kan.; Washington, Iowa; and Wauconda, Ill.; the Augustana Choir toured California, visiting Santa Barbara, Thousand Oaks, Yorba Linda, San Clemente and Rancho Santa Fe; and the Jenny Lind Vocal Ensemble performed three concerts in Illinois over April, visiting Elmhurst, West Dundee and Northbrook.
Augustana's tradition of ensemble tours dates back to the Augustana Silver Cornet Band, which toured Illinois and Iowa in 1882. Since then, Augustana's three touring ensembles — the Augustana Choir, Augustana Symphonic Band and Jenny Lind Vocal Ensemble — have been on the road, traveling as far as England, France, Japan, Scotland, Spain and Sweden.
Through these tours, Augustana students get to experience different cultures and share their love of music with the world. Learn more about the experiences of two touring student musicians who shared their experience performing music regionally.
Santi Miranda ’24, music education major, Monmouth, Ill. – Augustana Symphonic Band
What is it like touring with the Augustana Symphonic Band?
Touring with the ASB was so much fun! I know normal people under regular circumstances would get tired of the same people for five days in a row, but the ensemble has been close since the beginning of the semester, making the tour a much more enjoyable time. Most of the ASB is made up of first-year students. Having this experience with them has been a lot of fun because we learned how to tour together.
How did the tour help you grow as a musician?
This tour helped me grow as a musician in a way that only a tour can, and it taught me to perform to the very best of my ability. We only had about an hour of warm-up time, and the rest of our time was spent on a long bus ride or in a hotel – so not many practice opportunities. It was a real test of focus and skill to be able to pick up my clarinet and give it my all for five days in a row.
Olivia Diericks ’26, political science major, Prophetstown, Ill. – Jenny Lind Vocal Ensemble
What is it like touring with the Jenny Lind Vocal Ensemble?
Touring with Jenny Lind was a great experience! Singing in different environments helped me grow as a musician and as a choir member, and I made unforgettable memories with my choir friends. I learned to rely on my fellow singers for support and to trust in my own musical skills.
What is a memory from the tour that you’ll never forget?
I'll always remember the appreciation of the audiences who came to our church concerts. They were so grateful that we shared our music making with them, and that gratitude was truly touching.