Welcome to our 42nd Concert Season, “Celebrating American Treasures”
As the Lakeshore Wind Ensemble kicks off our 42nd concert season, we commemorate the 250th anniversary of our beloved nation with American treasures, including composers, musicians, films, cities, and dancing! Showcasing composers and musicians from Chicago, music of Mannheim Steamroller, a road trip across America, and of course – the Big Apple with “New York, New York” and a tribute to the lost and brave of 9/11 with “A Hymn for the Lost and the Living.” Join us for this fabulous season!
Each package includes one ticket to a 5-show LWE-only series or all six LWE and LBB concerts at the Capitol.
Music of the Masters: Sweet Home Chicago
Saturday, October 11, 2025 at 7:30 PM
The LWE will open the season with the music of composer and arranger William Himes, conductor of the Chicago Staff Band. He will be joined by guest Euphonium soloist Brad Say of the renowned Chicago Brass Band.
Festival of Christmas: Mannheim Magic
Saturday, December 6, 2025 at 7:30 PM
Celebrate the start of your holiday season with Tom Zalaski and the LWE. Selections will include audience sing-alongs and traditional carols, with half of the night’s repertoire featuring the musical genius of Mannheim Steamroller.
Pops Across America!
Sunday, January 18, 2026 at 2:00 PM
The LWE and LBB will take a musical road trip across America! You will be treated to a variety of songs from across the country, such as “Route 66,” Trombone Shorty’s “Backatown” from New Orleans, “Sweet Home Chicago,” Motown from Detroit, country from Nashville, polka from Wisconsin, and Frank Sinatra in Vegas!
The Winds of March: The General
Saturday, March 7, 2026 at 7:30 PM
The LWE will provide live musical accompaniment to a screening of Buster Keaton’s The General, a masterpiece of the silent film era. Don’t miss this unique performance!
Latin Explosion
Friday, March 27, 2026 at 7:30 PM
Enjoy a festive salsa of rumba and meringue with some jazz and pop music on the side! Featuring guest percussionists and music from Miami Sound Machine, Tito Puente, and the classic cha-cha, “Tea for Two.”
This show is not included in the five-show season package.
An American Salute: New York, New York
Saturday, May 2, 2026 at 7:30 PM
Join Kim Hofmann and the LWE for a rousing rendition of Frank Sinatra’s “New York, New York” and Broadway hits from the Big Apple! Also included will be a salute to veterans, a tribute to 9/11 with Eric Ewazen’s “A Hymn for the Lost and the Living,” and other connections to one of America’s legendary cities.