Augustana College Symphony Orchestra taking first tour

For the first time in its history, the Augustana Symphony Orchestra will take its act on the road, performing concerts in the Chicago area Nov. 3 and 4.

"Both the band and choir programs here have a long history of touring," said Dr. Daniel Chetel, an assistant professor of music and Augustana's director of orchestral activities. "There's a really strong touring history going back 50, 60, 70 years, and I'm excited for the orchestra to join in on that."

The orchestra's first tour also is an opportunity to share its work with Chicago-area prospective students and families, and with alumni.

The first tour concert at Messiah Lutheran Church in Wauconda will be a joint performance with the Lake Zurich High School Orchestra and Palatine High School Orchestra - both of whose directors are Augustana alumni: Nathan Sackschewsky '06 at Lake Zurich, and Dung Pham '94 at Palatine.

During the day, the Augustana Symphony Orchestra will work with the high school programs before all three combine for the evening's performance.