John Whitwell Guest Conducts At Rochester College Band And Chorus Concert

ROCHESTER HILLS, MICH. (Oct. 4, 2011) – Rochester College’s Music Department will present a concert featuring guest conductor John Whitwell, the A Cappella Chorus and the Rochester College Concert Band on Tuesday, Oct. 18.

John Whitwell is the director of bands emeritus at Michigan State University. Prior to his appointment at MSU, Whitwell held positions at Stephen F. Austin State University and Abilene Christian University. He also taught in the public schools of Michigan as band director. Whitwell is an alumnus of Rochester College, formerly known as Michigan Christian College. He maintains an active schedule and is in great demand as a guest conductor and clinician throughout the United States, Canada, Mexico and abroad.

The 50-member chorus will present a program spanning many years and nationalities. Lotti's Cruxifixus represents early baroque Europe, while Moses Hogan's arrangement of "I Can Tell the World" represents a 20th century vision of 18th century African-American spirituals. Other works include music by Randall Thompson, Pavel Tschesnokoff and more.

The 70-member Rochester College Concert Band includes RC undergraduates and faculty, students from other area colleges, advanced high school musicians and adult community members.

The Tuesday performance takes place at 7:30 p.m. at the Rochester Church of Christ at 250 West Avon Road in Rochester Hills, Mich. Admission is free, though small donations are accepted. For more information, call (248) 218-2149 or e-mail music@rc.edu.

ABOUT ROCHESTER COLLEGE

Founded in 1959, Rochester College is an accredited, independent liberal arts college that pursues academic excellence in a Christian setting. With more than 1,000 students, both in traditional and adult learning programs, RC offers bachelor degree programs at four locations and a master's degree in religious education. For more information about Rochester College, visit www.rc.edu.