Orchestra to perform patriotic concert
Submitted by Elgin Symphony Orchestra
The Elgin Symphony Orchestra concerts on Nov. 17-18 will be sure to rouse the patriotism in the hearts of all listeners as it performs beautiful standards including “Ol’ Man River,” “God Bless America,” and “Battle Hymn of the Republic.”
The concerts also feature the world premiere of “Salute,” an original piece composed by Daniel Brewbaker in honor of the late state Sen. Douglas Hoeft, a veteran Republican legislator from Elgin.
Hoeft was an educator known for his sense of humor, but when he spoke about education, people listened. In his role as superintendent of the Regional Office of Education and during his 10 years as state representative, he was able to make a difference at the highest levels. He began his career by teaching at Elgin High School and was dedicated to service in his community. He loved Elgin, supporting the Elgin Symphony Orchestra and many social agencies, as well as the fundraising drive to cast and install the bronze Pioneer Memorial Statue by the late Elgin sculptor Trygve Rovelstad. He set in motion the drive to establish a permanent home for the PADS shelter, which has been named in his honor.
When Hoeft died suddenly in December 2002, it was a shock to the community. Those who had helped him raise money to run for office decided to dedicate those funds to helping young people realize their future, establishing the Douglas Hoeft Scholarship Foundation. Aided by the generosity of friends, to date, 69 young people have received help in attending college. His legacy lives on.
Stephen Squires, ESO resident conductor and music director finalist, will lead the orchestra with guest vocalist Robert Orth.
Henry Fogel, past president of the Chicago Symphony Orchestra, will narrate Copeland’s “Lincoln Portrait.”
Through a special grant from the EFS Foundation, the ESO is offering half-price tickets to veterans and free tickets to active military personnel.
Performances will be held at 7:30 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 17, and 2:30 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 18, at Hemmens Cultural Center, 45 Symphony Way in Elgin.
Tickets are $28-$68. For tickets, call the ESO box office at (847) 888-4000 or visit www.elginsymphony.org.