Augustana’s annual Christmas music celebration set for Dec. 6-7

The Augustana College Department of Music will present Christmas at Augustana at 2 p.m. on Dec. 6 and 7 in Centennial Hall, 3703 7th Ave., Rock Island.

The production will include performances by the Augustana Brass Ensemble, Augustana Symphony Orchestra, Augustana Handbell Choir, Augustana Choir, Jenny Lind Vocal Ensemble and Augustana Concert Chorale. More than 200 student musicians will take the stage to share their talents in what has been a highlight of the Augustana and Quad-Cities holiday season since 2008.

This Christmas at Augustana is the last year that Dr. Jon Hurty, director of choral activities and Henry Veld professor in music at Augustana, will conduct the Augustana Choir, as he will retire next June.

Dr. Hurty said his time at Augustana has given him many fond memories.

“When we established Christmas at Augustana in 2008, I had no idea that it would become such a beloved part of the Christmas traditions here at Augustana,” he said. “Since it is my last year as director of choral activities, it is especially meaningful as I look back on all the great Christmas music that we have done in the past, as well as looking forward to an especially exciting program this year."

Guests are asked to be seated no later than 1:55 p.m. The performance is 90 minutes with no intermission. All ages are welcome.

Tickets range from $11 to $23 and can be purchased at www.augustana.edu/tickets or by calling 309-794-7306.  

Information about additional holiday events at Augustana can be found at www.augustana.edu/christmas.