|
|
The 21-voice mixed ensemble was selected by competitive audition in the spring of 2009. This fall, they will perform a concert titled "Our Lives are in your Hands." Celebrating God's faithfulness, the program features music from renaissance to modern works. The 15-member Hesston College Wind Ensemble embarks on its first tour, performing a short set of pieces for concert band. Both ensembles are conducted by Bradley Kauffman, Hesston College music faculty member. Freshman Stephanie Swartzendruber, Shickley, Neb., provides piano accompaniment.
This fall marks the beginning of Kauffman's third year on Hesston College's music faculty where he chairs the department and directs the instrumental music program. Prior to coming to Hesston, Kauffman was director of instrumental music at Bethany Christian Schools, Goshen, Ind., and director of choral and instrumental music at Iowa Mennonite School, Kalona, Iowa. He holds a master's degree in choral conducting from the University of Iowa.
During the 2009-10 school year, the Bel Canto Singers will perform at major school events, in local churches, on tour, and by special invitation. Members of this ensemble will also tour Europe in May, 2010.
Hesston College, located in south central Kansas, is the two-year liberal arts college owned by Mennonite Church USA.
The concerts of sacred and secular material are free and open to the public. Alumni and friends of Hesston College are especially invited to attend the following concerts:
* Sunday, October 18, 7:30 p.m., Des Moines (Iowa) Mennonite Church, 4001 56th St. A reception will follow the concert.
* Monday, October 19, 7:30 p.m., First Mennonite Church of Iowa City, 405 Myrtle Ave.
* Tuesday, October 20, 9:45 a.m., Iowa Mennonite School Chapel Concert, 1421 540th St. SW, Kalona, Iowa.
