Western Illinois University is rolling out the purple carpet for Homecoming week, and the School of Music is officially tuning up to kick off the festivities in style.
From lush choral harmonies to big band jazz and a historic debut inside Macomb’s newest cultural hub, a packed lineup of performances will set the celebratory tone for returning alumni, students and community members alike.
The music begins Tuesday, Oct. 20, at 7:30 p.m. with the Fall Choral Concert, titled “In Dreams.” The evening highlights the Concert Choir under the direction of conductor Dr. Jason Hawkins, alongside the Chamber Singers and University Singers led by conductor Dr. Brian J. Winnie, accompanied by collaborative pianists Heidi Brooks and Dr. Po-Chuan Chiang.
The momentum continues Wednesday, Oct. 21, at 7:30 p.m. with the energetic Jazz Showcase Concert, bringing a lively mix of syncopated rhythms and improvisational brass to mid-week audiences.
The week’s marquee event arrives Friday, Oct. 23, at 7:30 p.m. with the School of Music Celebration Concert. Hosted in the Great Hall of the new Goldfarb Center for Performing Arts, this landmark performance marks the first School of Music showcase inside the highly anticipated facility.
Celebrating WIU's rich musical legacy, the concert will unite all four major School of Music ensembles—the University Singers, Jazz Studio Orchestra, Symphony Orchestra and Wind Ensemble—alongside WIU Music Alumni for an unforgettable Homecoming spectacle.
Tuesday's "In Dreams" choral concert will be live-streamed on the WIU School of Music YouTube channel for those unable to attend in person. Friday's Celebration Concert at the Goldfarb Center is a non-ticketed, general admission event, offering students, alumni, faculty, and community guests a firsthand look at the new space.
For additional details regarding performance locations and schedules, contact Recital Hall Manager Joanie Herbert at [email protected] or 309-298-1843.
