Elmhurst Choral Union commemorates Civil War anniversary with oratorio performance, lecture

To recognize the 160th anniversary of the conclusion of the American Civil War, the Elmhurst Choral Union will perform “An American Civil War Memorial,” an oratorio composed by Dr. Michael Karasis, on Saturday, Aug. 30.

President Harry S. Truman’s great-grandson, Wesley Truman Daniel, will provide narration. Artistic interpretations of the Civil War will be projected throughout the performance.

The chorus, professional orchestra, and soloists will be under the direction of Scott Uddenberg, and colors will be presented by Commander Mike Kerley and the American Legion Post 187 Color Guard.

Tickets are $20 or $10 for youth up to age 18. Purchase tickets online at elmhurstchoralunion.org/tickets or at the door the day of the concert.

The performance begins at 3 p.m. at Elmhurst Christian Reformed Church, 149 Brush Hill Road, Elmhurst.

Enhance your enjoyment of the performance of “An American Civil War Memorial” by attending a pre-concert lecture on Thursday, Aug. 20, presented by Scott Uddenberg, artistic director of Elmhurst Choral Union.

Hear behind-the-scenes stories of the composition, the musicians, and the composer. The lecture will be held from 7 to 8:30 p.m. in the Kossmann Room at Elmhurst Public Library, 125 S. Prospect Ave. The lecture is free and open to the public. (This event is not affiliated with Elmhurst Public Library.)

For more information, visit elmhurstchoralunion.org or email info@elmhurstchoralunion.org.