This will be Matt Manweiler’s second time performing on tour with Foreigner, the world-famous rock band that has sold 80 million albums and is known for hits such as “I Want To Know What Love Is” and “Juke Box Hero”. He will be traveling with Foreigner for a run of shows in eastern Michigan and Ohio.

Foreigner is doing a special project that seeks to increase musical diversity by bridging the gap between classical and rock music by joining forces with a classical music ensemble. Mr. Manweiler is excited to help Foreigner bring their vision of a more inclusive and diverse performance to audiences.

Teaching music that is inclusive of many different styles and traditions is one of Rock Island Orchestra’s main goals, as the directors regularly teach styles of music from around the world through side by side concerts and workshops with well-known artists like Jesus Florido (Latin), The Turtle Island String Quartet (Jazz), Christian Howes (Latin and Jazz), and Mark Wood from the Trans-Siberian Orchestra (Rock).

“I’m hoping to use this experience to show my students what is involved in the production of large rock shows, as well as build connections that will benefit the students in Rock Island,” said Mr. Manweiler.

This will be Foreigner’s third time performing with staff and students from Rock Island School District.  In 2018 Mr. Manweiler toured with Foreigner on a Midwest tour. In the Spring of 2020, the Rock Island High School Choir performed with Foreigner on the song “I Want To Know What Love Is” at the band’s show in the Adler Theater.

If you want to see updates from the road, make sure to follow Rock Island Orchestra’s Facebook page!