Drake University’s large music ensembles have scheduled an eclectic series of free performances that are guaranteed to please fans of all ages and tastes.
The Fall 2016 Drake Ensembles Concert Series features performances by Drake’s symphony orchestra, wind symphony, wind ensemble and concert band, two jazz ensembles, and three auditioned choral groups, with special appearances by central Iowa high school groups and the non-auditioned Drake University/Community Chorus.
“Drake University’s large music ensembles enrich our community with world-class entertainment, usually at no cost to audiences,” said Clarence Padilla, director of the Drake University Department of Music. “On behalf of the department, its faculty, and the hundreds of talented students who perform in these ensembles, I’d like to personally invite you to join us this season.”
Performance schedule:
Friday, Sept. 23
Drake Jazz Ensembles I & II, Andrew Classen and James Romain, directors, 7:30 p.m., Performing Arts Hall
Sunday, Oct. 9
Drake Chamber Choir performing Faure’s Requiem, in collaboration with choirs from Valley High School, Waukee High School, Urbandale High School, and Dowling Catholic High School and a professional orchestra, Aimee Beckmann-Collier, conductor, 3 p.m., St. Ambrose Cathedral, 6th and High St. in downtown Des Moines.
Sun., Oct. 9
Drake Symphony Orchestra Concert, Akira Mori, conductor, 7:30 p.m., Sheslow Auditorium
Friday, Nov. 18
Drake Jazz Ensemble I, Andrew Classen, director, 7:30 p.m., Patty and Fred Turner Jazz Center
Sunday, Nov. 20
Cavalcade of Choirs Concert, featuring the Drake Choir, Chamber Choir, Drake University/Community Chorus, Aimee Beckmann-Collier, conductor, and Drake Chorale, Linda Vanderpool, conductor, 3 p.m., Sheslow Auditorium
Thursday, Dec. 1
Drake Jazz Ensemble II, James Romain, director, 7:30 p.m., Patty and Fred Turner Jazz Center
Friday, Dec. 2
Drake Bands Concert, featuring the Drake Wind Symphony, Wind Ensemble, and Concert Band, Robert Meunier, conductor, 7:30 p.m., Performing Arts Hall
Tuesday, Dec. 6
Drake Symphony Orchestra Concert, Akira Mori, conductor, 7:30 p.m., Sheslow Auditorium
In addition to this remarkable slate of large ensemble performances, the university also offers a wide variety of faculty and student recitals, special concert series, guest performers, and other musical events throughout the year—as well as a rich array of theatre and opera performances, art exhibitions, and other fine arts offerings. Friends of Drake Arts organization offers a calendar of all fine arts events at www.drake.edu/friends.