Concordia University Chicago’s premier choral performance ensemble, the Kapelle, will set out for its spring 2026 tour February 27–March 6, presenting a deeply meaningful program titled “Enduring with Jesus: Songs of Faith and Hope.” This tour brings the ensemble to congregations and schools across Florida, culminating in a home concert on Sunday, March 15 at 4 p.m. in the Chapel of Our Lord on Concordia-Chicago’s River Forest campus. Admission is free and free, handicapped-accessible parking is available in the University’s parking structure on Bonnie Brae.

Inspired by the University’s academic year theme, Rejoicing in a Living Hope (1 Peter 1:3–4), the program offers a musical journey that evokes feelings of tribulation, perseverance, and the comfort that only can be found in Christ. Repertoire spans centuries and styles—from Johann Sebastian Bach and Felix Mendelssohn-Bartholdy to Hugo Distler, Richard Hillert, and Thomas Gieschen—reflecting the Christian’s walk with a Savior who bears the sins of His people and brings them hope, a reality brought into sharper focus during Lent.

The Kapelle will also perform Conductor Dr. Charles P. Brown’s version of the traditional children’s hymn “God Loves Me Dearly” during their spring performances. Brown, who is a professor of music and chair of Concordia-Chicago’s Arts division, is a distinguished choral conductor, educator, and clinician whose work includes festival leadership, scholarly presentations, and many other contributions to music education and Lutheran church music. 

The Kapelle’s spring tour dates are:

  • Friday, Feb. 27, 6:30 p.m. – Hope Lutheran Church, 2001 N. Park Rd., Plant City, Fla.
  • Saturday, Feb. 28, 7 p.m. – Beautiful Savior Lutheran Church, 7461 Prospect Rd., Sarasota, Fla.; The Kapelle will also perform during 8 a.m. worship on Sunday, March 1.
  • Sunday, March 1, 4 p.m.– Grace Lutheran Church, 860 Banyan Blvd., Naples, Fla.
  • Monday, March 2, 7 p.m. – St. Paul Lutheran Church, 580 Indian Trace, Weston, Fla.
  • Tuesday, March 3, 7 p.m. – Faith Viera Lutheran Church, 5550 Faith Dr., Rockledge, Fla.
  • Thursday, March 5, 2 p.m. school mini‑concert; 7 p.m. concert – St. John Lutheran Church & School, 1915 SE Lake Weir Ave., Ocala, Fla
  • Friday, March 6, 7 p.m. – Shepherd of the Coast Lutheran Church, 101 Pine Lakes Pkwy., Palm Coast, Fla.

To learn more about the Kapelle, visit CUChicago.edu/kapelle.