WINONA, Minn. — Experienced area instrumentalists who love band music are invited to join the band. This season’s first rehearsal will take place on Monday, Aug. 27, from 6:45 to 8 p.m. in Saint Yon’s Hall (rehearsal room 158) on the Winona Campus of Saint Mary’s University.
The Concert Band has been a college-community partnership since 1990 and is directed by Dr. Janet Heukeshoven, professor of music and music education. The band rehearses 6:45 to 8 p.m. Mondays, and 6:45 to 8:30 p.m. on Wednesdays while classes are in session, late August through early May.
Talented high school students and experienced adult community musicians are welcome to join the collegiate instrumentalists for an exciting new season.
The band performs five times during the 2018-2019 academic year: Sept. 29, Oct. 5, Dec. 9, March 10, and May 11. The Family Weekend concert on Sept. 29 features music composed by Richard Saucedo and Samuel Hazo and an arrangement from Leonard Bernstein’s Mass. Oct. 5 will mark the festive Inauguration of Saint Mary’s University’s new president. The annual Christmas Concert is planned for Dec. 9, and the March 10 performance will include a world premiere composition by Dr. David Avshalomov, made possible through the Kaplan Foundation Commissioning project. Commencement will finish out this year’s performance season on May 11.
Placement auditions are individually scheduled between Aug. 30 and Sept. 4; audition repertoire (excerpts of music from the first concert and scales) will be provided at the Aug. 27 and 29 rehearsals.
There’s a place for you in the band! Brass players are especially needed, but all experienced wind, brass, and percussion players are welcome to join our 65-member ensemble. Call 457-1675 or email jheukesh@smumn.edu to reserve a spot for yourself at the first rehearsal on Aug. 27. Please include what instrument you play as well as your full name and preferred contact information.