Lawrence University’s Wind Ensemble and Symphonic Band come together for a special America 250 concert at 7:30 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 17, in Memorial Chapel, celebrating the nation’s rich musical heritage through American composers, themes, and styles. The performance is free and open to the public.
The evening will begin with The Prelude, a pre-concert reception starting at 6 p.m. outside Harper Hall, where audience members can enjoy refreshments and hear insights about the program from conductors.
The concert brings together both Lawrence bands for a unified musical journey spanning American hymns, jazz, ragtime, spirituals, Indigenous influences, marches and other traditions that have shaped the nation’s musical identity.
“This concert is different than other conservatory concerts because there’s one universal theme that was responsible for the construction of the entire program from beginning to end,” said Ceon Rumphs, visiting assistant professor of music and Wind Ensemble conductor at Lawrence University. “You get to hear distinctly American music, distinctly American sounds, and distinctly American composers all the way from the beginning to the end.”
The performance features 12 works, five by the Symphonic Band and seven by the Wind Ensemble, selected to reflect both the triumphs and the complexities of the American experience.
“America has a rich musical heritage, and this concert is an opportunity to celebrate that heritage,” said Matthew Arau, associate professor of music education and Symphonic Band conductor. “Within all of the American music we’re celebrating, there’s this richness of identity, of what it means to be an American.”
A highlight of the evening will be the appearance of guest conductor Kevin Sedatole, director of bands and professor of music at Michigan State University and one of the nation’s most respected wind conductors. He will rehearse with both ensembles and conduct selections during the concert.
“Dr. Kevin Sedatole is one of those figures who has been really influential and important in the development of the wind ensemble as a serious medium of performance,” Rumphs said. “It’s a wonderful chance for students to experience somebody who’s been so influential over his career.”
Arau said Sedatole’s presence will add another dimension to an already memorable event.
“He is a leader in the profession,” Arau said. “I’m excited for both bands to learn from someone who has dedicated his life to uplifting the wind band globally.”
Beyond the music, the conductors hope the program encourages reflection on shared community and connection.
“It’s our hope that this America 250 concert makes the audience think about community and how you are more similar to your neighbor than how you are different,” Rumphs said.
For those unable to attend in person at Memorial Chapel on Oct. 17, please join us via webcast: Watch Live.
