Hastings College Music invites the community to its final performance of the academic year: the Music Finale Extravaganza. This celebratory showcase will take place on Sunday, May 3, at 3 p.m. at the Masonic Center (411 N. Hastings Avenue). Admission is free and the event is open to the public.
The concert serves as a grand conclusion to the performance season, featuring the Hastings College Band and the Hastings College Choir, as well as the presentation of the annual Hastings College Music Awards.
The afternoon begins with the band, led by visiting conductor Erin Beave, and Dr. Matthew Rush, percussion coordinator. Beave has guided the ensemble this semester while Dr. Louie Eckhardt, director of bands, is on sabbatical.
The band’s repertoire highlights include:
- “Simple Gifts” by Frank Ticheli: A beloved four-movement work based on Shaker melodies.
- “American Elegy” by Frank Ticheli: A moving tribute composed in memory of those lost at Columbine High School, emphasizing hope and strength.
- “Chasing Sunlight” by Cait Nishimura: A vibrant, contemporary piece that captures the feeling of a summer sunset.
Following the band’s performance, annual music awards will be presented to students. This ceremony recognizes the hard work, talent and dedication of student musicians throughout the year.
The second half of the program features the Hastings College Choir, under the direction of Dr. Raoul Carlo (Miggi) F. Angangco and collaborative pianist Dr. Jonathan Sokasits.
The choir will perform a diverse selection ranging from Baroque masterpieces to modern arrangements, including:
- “What Passion Cannot Music Raise and Quell” from George Frideric Handel’s “Ode for St. Cecilia’s Day”: Featuring soprano soloist and graduating senior Angela Amaya, this classic work celebrates the power of music itself.
- “The Word Was God” by Rosephanye Powell: A rhythmic and powerful contemporary choral staple.
- “How Great Thou Art” (arr. Dan Forrest): A lush and soaring arrangement of the traditional hymn to close the afternoon.
“This concert is more than just a performance; it is a celebration of the community and growth our students have experienced this year,” said Dr. Wayne Riggs, vice president for academic affairs and chair of the Department of Music and Theatre. “From the energy of the band to the reflective nature of the choral program, there is something for everyone to enjoy.”
Hastings College is a four-year residential college that focuses on student academic and extracurricular achievement. Founded in 1882, the College is dedicated to student success and service to the community. Discover more at hastings.edu.