Beethoven works on tap when UIC choir joins ESO, Elgin Choral Union March 8-9

The Elgin Symphony Orchestra will be performing "Beethoven Inspired" on Satirdau and Sunday, March 8-9, at Hemmens Cultural Center in Elgin.

Pieces for this performance include Beethoven's Symphony No. 2 in D major, and Cherubini's Requiem in C minor. Beethoven admired Cherubini, calling him "the greatest contemporary composer."

Leading the orchestra will be Andrew Lewis, the music director of the Elgin Choral Union. Lewis is also the artistic director of Bella Voce, founder and artistic director of The Janus Ensemble, Choirmaster at St. Luke's Episcopal Church in Evanston, and is on the conducting faculty at the University of Illinois at Chicago. He is also artistic director emeritus of the Lutheran Choir of Chicago and formerly taught conducting at DePaul University. Lewis received his bachelor of music degree from Northwestern University and his master of music degree from Eastman School of Music.

Joining the orchestra will be the UIC Symphonic Choir and the Elgin Choral Union. The UIC Symphonic Choir, under the direction of Michael J. Anderson, is a university choir made up of students of all disciplines. It provides student singers with the opportunity to perform at the highest possible level with their peers and potential future colleagues.

The Elgin Choral Union is a 110-member adult choir in residence at Elgin Community College, made up of talented and dedicated volunteers and professional section leaders who come from over 30 communities.

The Elgin Symphony Orchestra experience is unmatched for a fun, relaxing, cultural experience. Patrons can enjoy a drink, time with friends and even shopping in the lobby of the Hemmens Cultural Center. After Saturday night performances, the audience is invited to "Mingle with the Musicians" at the local restaurant, Elgin Public House. From start to finish - the ESO brings world class, big city entertainment without the hassles of the big city.

The ESO's "Beethoven Inspired" will be performed at 7:30 p.m. Saturday, March 8, and 2:30 p.m. Sunday, March 9, at the Hemmens Cultural Center, 45 Symphony Way, Elgin. Tickets are still available and can be purchased through the ESO box office at (847) 888-4000 or by visiting www.elginsymphony.org.