Brass ensemble opens Wheaton College’s Artist Series

Wheaton College’s Artist Series almost has become a staple in DuPage County.

The program, which enters its 62nd year Friday and counts the Chicago Symphony Orchestra and the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra among its past performers, opens every fall and runs the length of the school year.

But with a loyal subscription base that approaches 1,000, the program’s directors have launched a renewed effort to attract a more varied audience, hoping to build another wave of loyalty from students.

“We are aware that if we do not engage the young, we will not have a future,” said Tony Payne, the director of the school’s music conservatory. “Job one is to take away the barriers and a big barrier would be cost.”

To do that, the school once again is offering students from any school $5 tickets to any seat for any show in the seven-performance season. The first chance to take advantage of the offer comes at 8 p.m. Friday at Edman Memorial Chapel, 501 College Ave.

Chicago’s Millar Brass Ensemble will perform along with Belgian organist Ignace Michiels. A pre-concert performance will feature members of the Wheaton North High School marching band.

Payne, 54, has been involved with the series since 1983. He said it has faced challenges in recent years as the economy continues to affect families.

“People have been through a lot and there are a lot of challenges, and they face decisions about discretionary income,” he said. “We have focused on making these great arts and music events available to a larger amount of people.”

The pricing is one way to do that. But Payne said he also has focused on bringing in artists that may have a greater appeal to younger audiences.

“The emerging generation is not so much wowed by this name or that name but by the prospect of an experience that is compelling,” he said.

With area businesses climbing on board with discount cards for subscribers and meet-the-artist events both on performance day and during weeks leading up to the events, Payne said creating that experience remains a priority.

“The idea is to handcraft a program that has appeal for a variety of audiences,” he said.

Wheaton College Artist Series

Today: Millar Brass Ensemble with Ignace Michiels on organ

Oct. 22: Joshua Roman, cello

Nov. 18: Cantus singing group

Jan. 27: Hamburg Symphony Orchestra, conductor Jeffrey Tate

March 16: Quartetto Gelato

April 27: Turtle Island Quartet

Info: artistseries.org