On March 28 at 6:30 p.m., Concordia’s Symphony Orchestra, Donne di Canto and Men’s Chorus will be performing in the USA250: American Classics for Stage and Screen concert located at Faith Lutheran High School, Las Vegas. They will be joined by the Faith Lutheran High School Choir in a collaborative performance honoring the impact that music has throughout the 250 years of America. Tonight, they will perform at Orange Lutheran High School at 7:30 p.m., highlighting many of the same pieces in a closer setting to Concordia.   

These ensembles will be showcasing a wide range of music from films such as classics throughout Disney’s history: “Coco,” “The Princess and the Frog,” “Pocahontas,” and “James and the Giant Peach.” The choir will also perform highlights from “La La Land,” as well as music from “Crimson Tide.” These songs were chosen from differing genres that wholly represent the American aesthetic. Each of Concordia’s musical groups have spent countless nights preparing for this exhibition of works. 

Music Director Dr. Dan Wessler shared the program's readiness and challenges for these pieces. “It’s been a challenge to execute, but an enjoyable one, and the students are clearly energized by the task,” Wessler said. 

Adding to this, Bradford Thain, a junior, said, “What I’m looking forward to the most about the concert is the delivery of the entire performance. I am especially excited for the portions that I am not singing because I will be able to listen extra well to the orchestra and the awesome playing,” said Thain. 

For many of the performers, these works hold sentimental value as well as historical importance. Many have expressed that they are thrilled to commit themselves to performing these extraordinary works. Thain said “Rehearsing the pieces has given me a much deeper appreciation for one of the pieces; Many of them have layers, which are not immediately apparent, but give a profoundness to the music, which it would not be the same without.” The connection and deep understanding of the music has made the anticipation of the performance only more promising.  

As the performances approach, each of the ensemble's hard work and dedication will be showcased in a memorable evening, one full of celebration and pride in American heritage. This concert promises to bring forth cultural identity in a new light and an expression of nostalgia that will resonate with the audience. The events are free and open to the public. Concordia’s music department will surely produce another spectacular performance. 

For more information about the USA 250 Concert, visit https://www.simpletix.com/e/usa250-american-classics-for-the-stage-and-tickets-233012. For more information about Concordia’s music department, visit https://www.cui.edu/arts/music.

Tags: music, Symphony Orchestra, choir, Men's Chorus

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