October 14, 2004

Media Advisory

A pair of free, public events - - an afternoon dedication and an open house featuring an evening of musical performances - - is set for Friday, Oct. 15, to showcase the beautifully remodeled and expanded Altgeld Hall.

The building, inspired by a European castle, is the oldest on the Southern Illinois University Carbondale campus and houses its School of Music.

Here's a quick look at each of the events:

  • 1:30 p.m., east lawn: Formal dedication ceremony. Chancellor Walter V. Wendler will join other University dignitaries at this event. Students in a brass quintet will perform before and after the ceremony. SIU Board of Trustees Chairman Glenn Poshard, SIU Acting President Duane Stucky, Provost and Vice Chancellor John M. Dunn, Dean Shirley Clay Scott of the College of Liberal Arts, music professor Michael D. Hanes, who is director of bands, and music student Boja Kraguli, will be among those making brief remarks. A reception and tours of the building follow the formal dedication.

In the event of inclement weather, the ceremony will move inside to Altgeld Hall's room #112, a new band/orchestra rehearsal room.

  • 7:30 p.m., Altgeld Hall's west entrance, facing Faner Hall Circle, live musical performances and open house. Events begin on the front steps where 17 musicians will perform "Echoes of Altgeld," a fanfare created by faculty member and composer Kathleen C. Ginther.

Activities will then move indoors so visitors may tour the building, where some nine live ensembles of chamber musicians will be playing in as many locations throughout the building. Guests may hear guitars, low brass instruments, opera, contemporary/experimental music, mallet percussionists, woodwinds, flutes, pianists and jazz combos.

Guests also may enjoy cake and hot cider during the open house.