Andrews Wind Symphony Presents 'Americana Soundscape' Concert

The university's wind ensemble will perform classic American music on April 19th.

Apr. 12, 2026 at 12:59pm

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A vibrant, abstract illustration featuring bold, geometric shapes in red, white, and black, conceptually representing the energy and musical traditions of an American wind symphony concert.The Andrews University Wind Symphony's 'Americana Soundscape' concert will bring classic American melodies to life through an energetic, multimedia performance.Berrien Springs Today

The Andrews University Wind Symphony, under the direction of Denisse Santos-Gooden, will present its spring concert titled 'Americana Soundscape' on Sunday, April 19th at 4 p.m. in the Howard Performing Arts Center. The program will feature a lineup of American composers and scenes from the 1930s through the 1950s, including works by George Gershwin, Aaron Copland, Irving Berlin, and more.

Why it matters

The Andrews University Wind Symphony is a renowned ensemble that showcases the musical talent of the university's students and faculty. This concert celebrates American musical traditions and provides the community an opportunity to experience a diverse program of classic American compositions performed live.

The details

The concert will open with Gershwin's 'Strike Up the Band' conducted by graduate student Francis Aguilar Jr. Other highlights include 'The Wonderful World of Disney,' 'Beale Street Blues,' 'Moon River,' and 'American Patrol.' After intermission, the second half will feature Copland's 'Hoe-Down' from 'Rodeo' conducted by graduate student Lymuel Ligsay, as well as 'Baby Elephant Walk,' 'Cole Porter on Broadway,' and 'Puttin' on the Ritz' performed by the Andrews Brass.

  • The concert will take place on Sunday, April 19, 2026 at 4 p.m.
  • Tickets can be purchased in advance at howard.andrews.edu.

The players

Denisse Santos-Gooden

The director of the Andrews University Wind Symphony.

Francis Aguilar Jr.

A graduate student conductor who will lead the performance of Gershwin's 'Strike Up the Band'.

Lymuel Ligsay

A graduate student conductor who will lead the performance of Copland's 'Hoe-Down' from 'Rodeo'.

Andrews University

A leading institution of higher education for the Seventh-day Adventist Church, located in Berrien Springs, Michigan.

Howard Performing Arts Center

An 850-seat concert hall on the campus of Andrews University where the concert will take place.

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What’s next

Tickets for the 'Americana Soundscape' concert can be purchased in advance at howard.andrews.edu. Prices are $8.50 for general seating and $6.50 for students and seniors, with a two-ticket limit for purchases using a student ID.

The takeaway

This concert provides the local community an opportunity to experience a diverse program of classic American music performed live by the talented Andrews University Wind Symphony. The program celebrates the rich musical traditions of the United States through works by renowned composers.