The University of Wisconsin-Superior Music Department will host Alumni Reunion: Music of the Lake, a two-day celebration of the honoring the enduring legacy of UW-Superior music program. Both concerts are free and open to the community.

The celebration begins on Thursday, September 25, at 7:30 p.m. at Cathedral of Christ the King in Superior.

“Nearly every aspect of the Music Department will be represented,” said Michael Fuchs, D.M.A., UW-Superior director of choral activities, associate professor and chair of the Music Department. “The Band, Orchestra, and Choir will be featured, along with the percussion ensemble, small groups, and soloists. This concert highlights the depth and breadth of the musical experiences offered at UW-Superior.”

The evening will feature the world premiere of a new composition by UW-Superior alumnus David Packa.

“The premiere is titled Near the Shores, with music by David Packa and text by Jade Marielan, also a UW-Superior alum and staff member in the Center for Continuing Education,” said Fuchs. “It will be performed by the UWS Chorale, with David Packa at the piano. The piece concludes with a moving arrangement of the UW-Superior Alma Mater.

“It’s a beautiful composition that captures the spirit of Lake Superior through the changing seasons while reflecting the lived experiences of generations of UW-Superior music students. It is dedicated to the music students and alumni of UW-Superior.”

The festivities continue on Friday, September 26, at 7 p.m. in Webb Recital Hall with the Alumni Solo/Chamber Recital. The recital is preceded by a reception with light appetizers in the lobby of Holden Fine Arts Center for alumni, friends, students and concert attendees at 5 p.m.

“The alumni recital has always been a favorite event for our students and alumni,” said Fuchs. “The legacy of the UW-Superior Music Department stretches across decades and throughout the country. Bringing people back home for a performance featuring multiple generations of musicians is both marvelous and deeply meaningful.”

Cathedral of Christ the King is located at 1111 Belknap St. Webb Recital Hall is in Holden Fine and Applied Arts, 1805 Catlin Ave.