Ensembles

Symphonic Band

Founded on October 2, 1874 at the Paxton, Illinois campus, the Augustana Band is the oldest musical organization on a campus widely recognized for its rich cultural heritage. The first Band consisted of three cornets, two alto horns, two tenor horns, one baritone horn, two bass horns and two drummers. First performances that year included an appearance at an “indignation meeting” and the spring commencement ceremony. The first formal concert was held May 14, 1875 in Clark’s Hall in Paxton. The group began its tradition of appearing at building dedications on October 14, 1875 when the first Augustana College building was dedicated in Rock Island. In 1883, the group also took part in the dedication of “Old Main”, currently the oldest building on campus. In the spring of that year, the Band took its first concert tour, travelling to central Iowa. Since that time, the Band has toured annually with “the purpose of enhancing the value of the Augustana Band to both the listener and the institution of which the organization has been a part.” During World War I, members of the band enlisted as a unit in the service of their country. During that time they not only saw action, but also gave a concert tour after the Armistice was signed. In 1928, the Band became one of the first American collegiate bands to tour in Europe.

Since its inception, The Symphonic Band and its program have grown to include a second band and numerous performances around the world. Tours have taken the Band into 26 states for appearances in a variety of settings including Orchestra Hall in Chicago; Kennedy Center in Washington D.C., Town Hall in New York City; Joslyn Art Museum, Omaha, Nebraska; Crouse Auditorium on the Syracuse University Campus; the Ford Theatre of the Honeywell Center; numerous high schools, churches and community centers. In addition to the recent dedications of the remodeled music facilities, the new Library, the new Science building and the Franklin W. Olin Center for Educational Technology, the Band has recently returned from a tour of England.

The Augustana Symphonic Band rehearses three to five days per week and gives 20 performances both on and off campus. The ensemble performs music of the highest artistic quality written for the wind band. Recent graduates may be found in the most prestigious graduate programs and community ensembles. Membership in the Symphonic Band provides an opportunity for the most dedicated wind musicians to continue their musical growth in a challenging, yet supportive environment.

2009 Southeast U.S. Tour Information »

Dr. James Lambrecht, Conductor