Doc Krueger, after Augustana Alumni and Friends Concert —
Dr. Harry Krueger, professor emeritus at Augustana College in Sioux Falls, South Dakota. Doc Krueger conducted the brass ensembles at Augustana for many years, and his faithful alumni show up every year the Sunday after Easter to perform a concert to benefit Augustana scholarships. For many years, the performance has expanded to include any “Friends” who come to share the joy of music with Doc and their friends among the Augustana alumni.
I’ve played with the group for many years (maybe 8 or 9?), and have come to admire the enthusiasm Doc brings to his music making, and very much enjoy his wonderful and unique collection of brass ensemble music. Much of the music Doc brings with him is handwritten copies of original scores sent directly to Doc from the composers, and was never published and rarely played (except by Doc and his groups).
Unfortunately, Doc announced that this would be his final year conducting this concert. All of us touched by his wonderful personality will miss the wonderful music and music making. I thought ahead and brought my camera to get a portrait. As I suspected would happen, I only had the chance for one exposure. But it seemed to work out.
Thanks for these many years of music, Doc! The week after Easter will never feel quite the same!