Rehearsals: M 7-8:30 p.m.
The Augustana Oratorio Society, originally named the Handel Oratorio Society, was formed in 1880 by Augustana theology Professor Olof Olsson. It consisted of students and choirs in Moline, Rock Island and Andover, Ill. Their first concert in 1881 was part of the celebration of Holy Week.
The society has performed Handel’s "Messiah" and other oratorios almost every year. The ensemble is celebrated for exploring the riches of choral-orchestral literature.
The musicians of the Augustana Oratorio Society include community members, Augustana students, and members of the Augustana Choir.
Any Augustana student may sing with the Oratorio Society. Participation does not meet scholarship participation requirement. More information is available from Dr. Jon Hurty.
Augustana's Jenny Lind Vocal Ensemble, under the direction of Dr. Michael Zemek, will embark on a performance tour March 20-23, 2026. The tour will kick off in Chicago, Ill., and then they will continue on to perform in Seattle, Wash., and Portland, Ore.
Fish, insects, elephants and the Augustana Choir all have their place in the natural world of sound, as explored by journalist Amy Martin ‘95.
Violinist Becky Kia ’87 actually said no the first two times Mannheim Steamroller came calling. But by 1990, she was ready. Kia accepted the invitation to join the ensemble’s backup orchestra for its Christmas concerts in Omaha, and today she is a touring conductor and solo violinist.
The Augustana Jazz Ensemble will perform, directed by Dr. Joel Linscheid.
The Augustana Percussion Ensemble will perform, directed by Dr. Tony Oliver.
The Augustana Symphony Orchestra will perform.
