Concordia University Chicago welcomes the public to a weekend of free seasonal music events, starting with the University Band Christmas Concert on Friday, Dec. 6 at 8 p.m., and continuing with the Services of Lessons & Carols on Saturday, Dec. 7 at 4 p.m. and 7 p.m., and Sunday, Dec. 8 at 4 p.m.
The University Band will present a festive program, including “Sleigh Ride” and “A Christmas Festival” by Leroy Anderson; “Adventum,” arranged by Jared Barnes; “Jesu, Joy of Man’s Desiring” by Johann Sebastian Bach; and “Hark, Those Jingle Bells Are Smokin’” by Julie Giroux. Another piece to be performed, “Luminescence,” was composed by Daniel Pattie, a senior at Oak Park-River Forest High School. Jean Harrison Bojes will provide commentary for the evening, introducing and describing each selection.
The University Band comprises approximately 70 musicians, including residents from surrounding communities as well as Concordia-Chicago students, faculty and staff. Conductor Dr. Richard Fischer, distinguished professor of music and the Fred and Jane Wittlinger Endowed Chair for Music Performance, recently celebrated 50 years as director of bands at Concordia-Chicago. In addition to his work at the University, he is in demand internationally as a guest conductor, clinician, presenter and adjudicator.
The Services of Lessons & Carols are a beloved Christmas tradition, featuring scripture readings, choral music and congregational singing. Pre-service music begins 20 minutes prior to the start of each performance. The University’s music ensembles, including the Kapelle, Laudate, Männerchor, Handbell Ensemble, Schola Cantorum and Chamber Orchestra, will perform during the services. A freewill offering will be collected to support the CUC Music Department.
For those unable to attend in person, Lessons & Carols will be streamed online at CUChicago.edu/live on Sunday, Dec. 8 starting at 6:40 p.m.
Seating in the chapel is first come, first served. Concordia-Chicago’s campus is located at 7400 Augusta St., River Forest, IL. Free off-street parking is available in the University’s parking structure, south of Division Street on Bonnie Brae Place. ADA-accessible parking is available in the visitors’ lot adjacent to the north side of the University parking structure. For more information, visit CUChicago.edu/music or call 708-209-3060.
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