Augustana Symphonic Band heading for Spain

The Augustana Symphonic Band will launch its first tour to Spain on Feb. 17, presenting five concerts near Barcelona, Madrid and Valencia.

Led by Dr. James Lambrecht, director of bands and co-chair of music, the 53-member band has a tradition of touring across the country and around the world that goes back decades.

“Touring with the band internationally always is a highlight of the year, not only for the students but also for me as a conductor,” said Dr. Lambrecht. 

Many students and alumni say the highlight of their Augustana experience was touring with an ensemble. 

The Augustana Symphonic Band’s first overseas performance was in 1928, when the group toured Norway, Sweden and other northern European countries. At the time, this trip was thought to be one of the greatest adventures ever undertaken by an Augustana student organization. 

Since that first epic tour, the band has traveled to 37 states and many countries, most recently Japan, Italy, England and Scotland.

Concert schedule

Sunday, Feb. 19 – Combined concert with the Symphonic Band of Alcalá de Henares at Teatro Cervantes in Alcalá de Henares

Tuesday, Feb. 21 – Concert at Conservatory of Music at Getafe

Thursday, Feb. 23 – Combined concert with the symphonic band of the conservatory at the Escola Municipal de Música in Terrassa

Saturday, Feb. 25 – Concert at the Sociedad Musical Santa Cecelia in Cullera

Sunday, Feb. 26 – Concert at the Sociedad Musical la Artistica in Buñol

The band will perform a home concert after the tour at 8 p.m. on Saturday, March 11, in Centennial Hall. Admission is free, and a freewill offering will be accepted.