The Southeast Iowa Band is inviting the public to take a musical journey around the world — no passport required.
The group’s spring concert, titled “Musical Passport,” will be held Sunday, March 8th at 3 p.m. inside Chapel Auditorium in Mount Pleasant. Admission is free, with support provided through free-will donations. The performance will last about 90 minutes, include an intermission, and conclude with a reception in the lobby.
Music Director Robert McConnell says the program is designed to appeal to all ages, especially families with students who may be considering joining band. During the concert, musicians will introduce their instruments by playing short musical excerpts, giving young audience members a chance to hear the unique sounds that come together to form the full ensemble.
The afternoon’s repertoire will span the globe — from South America to Armenia to Latin America — and even into outer space. The concert opens with John Williams’ iconic “Superman” theme. Other featured works include “Armenian Dances” by Alfred Reed, the familiar “Light Cavalry Overture,” and a high-energy Latin finale.
Horn player Amanda Stout will be featured as soloist on “Cape Horn,” a piece inspired by the dramatic waters off southern Chile where the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans meet. Stout says the work is filled with powerful horn calls and driving energy, balanced by a lyrical middle section reminiscent of rolling ocean waves.
The 50-member ensemble includes band directors, music educators, professional musicians, and advanced student performers from across southeast Iowa. The group rehearses for five weeks before presenting fall and spring concerts, with a mission of challenging performers while promoting music education in the region.
Again, the Southeast Iowa Band’s “Musical Passport” concert is set for 3 p.m. Sunday, March 8th at Chapel Auditorium in Mount Pleasant. Admission is free.