Upcoming Concerts

Featuring the DuPage Festival Orchestra 

Join conductor Scott Uddenberg and the DuPage Festival Orchestra for an inspiring evening of contemporary orchestral music featuring the works of composer, violinist, educator, and physician Dr. Michael J. Karasis.

This unique program presents three original compositions that explore humanity’s place in the universe, the resilience of the human spirit, and the power of music to tell stories that transcend words.

The evening’s featured work, The Pale Blue Dot, is inspired by humanity’s renewed exploration of space through NASA’s Artemis program and Carl Sagan’s iconic reflection on Earth as a tiny “pale blue dot” suspended in the vastness of the cosmos. Combining powerful orchestral music with narration, the work invites audiences to reflect on our shared home, our connection to one another, and our place in the immense universe we call home. Narration will be provided by Dr. Casey R. Watson, Professor of Physics and Astronomy at Millikin University.

Also featured is Symphony No. 10: An American Salute to Ukraine, a moving tribute to the beauty, culture, and enduring spirit of the Ukrainian people. Written in response to the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, the symphony celebrates the rich traditions of a nation while acknowledging the challenges its people continue to face. Through moments of both power and perseverance, the work reflects resilience, hope, and the strength of the human spirit.

The program concludes with Violin Concerto No. 2, a captivating and technically demanding work featuring acclaimed violinist Isabella Lippi. Both haunting and beautiful, the concerto showcases the expressive range of the violin through soaring melodies, virtuosic passages, and deeply emotional musical storytelling.

Under the direction of Scott Uddenberg, the DuPage Festival Orchestra brings these compelling works to life in the beautiful live acoustics of Hammerschmidt Memorial Chapel.

About the Conductor

Scott Uddenberg is an accomplished conductor, vocalist, educator, and arts leader in the Chicagoland area. He serves as Music Director at Prince of Peace Lutheran Church in Schaumburg and is the longtime Director of the Elmhurst Choral Union. A respected musical collaborator and advocate for the arts, Uddenberg also serves on the Board of Directors for the Grant Park Music Festival. Known for his

commitment to artistic excellence and community engagement, he has built a reputation for bringing musicians and audiences together through meaningful and inspiring performances.

About the Composer

Dr. Michael J. Karasis is a composer, violinist, educator, and practicing urologist based in Decatur, Illinois. In addition to his medical career, he serves on the faculty of Harper College and has dedicated much of his life to composing original works inspired by science, history, current events, and the human experience. His music combines intellectual curiosity with emotional depth, creating works that challenge, inspire, and connect with audiences.

Experience an evening of extraordinary music as The Pale Blue Dot brings together science, storytelling, and symphonic artistry in one unforgettable performance.

General Admission: $25 in advance | $30 at the door