The University Band of Concordia-Chicago will perform its annual Patriotic Pops concert on Saturday, June 29 on the University campus. The free concert and ice cream social, which celebrates community and country with timeless music, will begin at 6:30 p.m. on the Addison Hall lawn, 7400 Augusta St., River Forest, IL. In the event of rain, the concert will be held on June 30.
Highlighting a mix of patriotic and popular songs, the University Band will perform “Summon the Heroes” by John Williams in honor of the Paris 2024 Olympics; “The Lion King,” arranged by John Higgins; and “America the Beautiful” by Samuel Augustus Ward. During “Armed Forces Salute,” members of the audience who have served in the military will be recognized.
Jean Harrison Bojes will provide commentary, introducing the repertoire and providing interesting facts on each piece. Chris O’Hara will be the featured trumpet soloist, performing “Ballad,” written for him by R. Christopher Teichler; and “Carnival of Venice,” a classic piece for trumpet and band. O’Hara is an adjunct professor of music at Concordia-Chicago where he teaches brass techniques.
The University Band comprises approximately 70 musicians, including residents from surrounding communities as well as Concordia University Chicago students, faculty and staff. Conductor Dr. Richard Fischer, distinguished professor of music and the Fred and Jane Wittlinger Endowed Chair for Music Performance, is celebrating his 50th year at Concordia-Chicago.
Concertgoers are welcome and encouraged to bring their own lawn chairs, blankets and picnic baskets. Free, ADA-accessible parking is available in the visitors’ lot north of the University parking structure off Bonnie Brae Place. For questions, call 708-209-3555 or email Lisa.Salazar@CUChicago.edu.
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