The American University Music Department presents an extensive lineup of classical, traditional and contemporary performances for the Fall 2024.
AU Gospel Choir Concert
Katzen Arts Center, Abramson Family Recital Hall
Sept. 28, 5 p.m.
The AU Gospel Choir will honor director Sylstea Sledge’s 25-year tenure with an inspiring concert highlighting gospel music's rich repertoire.
This special performance will span a variety of gospel styles, showcasing the choir’s vibrant energy and commitment to uplifting the community through powerful music. The concert promises to be a heartfelt celebration of Sledge’s dedication and the enduring spirit of gospel, creating an evening of joy and reflection for students, alumni and the wider AU community.
Faculty Music Concert– Oh He Dead
Katzen Arts Center, Abramson Family Recital Hall
Oct. 26, 7:30 p.m.
Audience members can groove along with the D.C.-based indie soul band Oh He Dead, featuring AU music faculty member Alex Salser on guitar. The band is known for their unique blend of smooth, luxurious sounds and light-hearted fun.
Their latest studio album, “Ugly,” explores a range of themes from morality to new beginnings. This concert showcases the band’s signature contradictions, promising an engaging and memorable performance.
AU Chamber Singers– International Tour Preview Concert: Colombia
Katzen Arts Center, Abramson Family Recital Hall
Nov. 2, 7:30 p.m., Nov. 3, 3 p.m.
Before the AU Chamber Singers embark on their highly anticipated international tour to Colombia in 2025, they will present a preview concert showcasing traditional choral music from across the Americas, including works by Colombian and Latin American composers.
This marks the Chamber Singers’ first return to Colombia since the 1990s, making this concert not only a musical journey but also a historic moment for the ensemble.
AU Chorus–Tree of Peace
Katzen Arts Center, Abramson Family Recital Hall
Nov. 8-9, 7:30 p.m.
The AU Chorus invites students to take a moment to relax with Tree of Peace, a concert designed to offer a moment of reflection and tranquility.
Under the direction of Casey Cook and the accompaniment of pianist Barbara Wilkinson, the performance will explore themes of peace, nature and serenity. The program will conclude with Gwenyth Walker’s powerful composition “The Tree of Peace,” creating a musical sanctuary for the audience to find harmony and respite with.
AU Symphonic Band– Folk Song
Katzen Arts Center, Abramson Family Recital Hall
Nov. 10, 3 p.m.
Under the direction of Matthew Brown, the AU Symphonic Band will perform Folk Song, a vibrant program inspired by folk music and dances from around the world.
The concert will highlight the rich diversity of folk traditions while featuring works by composers such as Frank Ticheli, Robert W. Smith and Carol Brittin Chambers. The performance will conclude with Ralph Vaughan Williams’ beloved “English Folk Song Suite,” offering a timeless celebration of musical heritage.
AU Jazz Orchestra–Fall for Jazz
Katzen Arts Center, Abramson Family Recital Hall
Nov. 15, 7:30 p.m.
Celebrate the arrival of autumn with the AU Jazz Orchestra’s electrifying Fall for Jazz concert, directed by Joshua Bayer. This performance will serve an exciting variety of jazz styles from bop and swing to Latin, funk and rock.
The concert promises a lively experience, showcasing the students’ versatility and creative mastery in a jazz feast that is sure to captivate and entertain. Bayer encourages the audience to “be prepared to clap a lot,” highlighting the impressive soloing and improvisation skills of the students
AU Symphony Orchestra– Dvořák Symphony No. 7
Katzen Arts Center, Abramson Family Recital Hall
Nov. 16, 7:30 p.m., November 17, 3 p.m.
The AU Symphony Orchestra, also directed by Brown, takes on Antonin Dvořák’s powerful “Symphony No. 7,” a cornerstone of the orchestral repertoire since its composition in 1885.
The concert will also premiere Barbara Harbach’s first symphony “Veneration,” adding a contemporary touch to this dynamic performance.
Tickets for all AU Music Program performances are available on the DPA website, and are free for students, staff, faculty and community members.
This article was edited by Jesscia Ackerman, Marina Zaczkiewicz and Abigail Turner. Copy editing by Luna Jinks and Ariana Kavoossi.
