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Bowling Green Commemorates 100 Years of WKU Band Excellence

Musicians captivating the audience at the WKU Band gala concert celebrating a centenary of musical excellence.

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News Summary

Bowling Green is abuzz with anticipation as Western Kentucky University celebrates the 100th anniversary of its band program. The milestone will be observed through a series of gala concerts featuring impressive performances from current students and notable alumni. Scheduled for April 25 and 26, 2025, this celebration showcases the rich history and musical contributions of WKU’s band program, promising an unforgettable experience for attendees.

Bowling Green Celebrates a Century of Musical Legacy with WKU’s 100th Anniversary Band Gala Concerts

Excitement is in the air in Bowling Green as Western Kentucky University gears up to celebrate a significant milestone—its band program’s 100th anniversary. From its humble beginnings back in 1925, when the first band was formed at the then Western Kentucky Teachers College, the program has blossomed into a musical powerhouse that now serves over 400 talented students!

Initially a student-led organization with just 18 eager members directed by the enthusiastic Joyce Felts, the band rapidly grew in stature. By 1926, under the guidance of the newly appointed faculty director, Franz J. Strahm, membership climbed to 30. Fast forward a century later, the WKU Band program has reached impressive heights, landing international recognition for its remarkable contributions to music education.

Get Ready for the Gala Concerts!

To commemorate this incredible journey, a series of delightful gala concerts is set for April 25 and 26, 2025. The festivities will kick off with a spectacular concert featuring the WKU Symphonic Band directed by Dr. Matthew McCurry and the WKU Wind Ensemble led by Dr. Gary Schallert. To add a touch of nostalgia, four former directors have been cordially invited back to participate in this grand celebration.

Among the featured performers, notable WKU alumni will pay tribute to their roots. You’ll hear the incredible sounds of Technical Sergeant Brandon Jones from the US Air Force Band and Master Sergeant Matthew Carmichael from the US Army Band, who will perform a stunning rendition of Delibes’ Flower Duet. Adding to the excitement, four alumni percussionists will thrill the audience with the third movement of Viet Cuong’s percussion concerto, Re(new)al, showcasing the extensive talent and growth of the band program.

The Magic Continues

The second concert during this extraordinary weekend will see the WKU Campus Community Band take center stage. The performance promises to be a splendid mix of current and former WKU directors working harmoniously, all while audiences bask in the rich history of this band program.

During this compelling event, attendees can look forward to a special presentation honoring MSG Larry Fergusson, who will receive the Department of Music’s prestigious Wall of Fame Award. An added highlight will be the world premiere of a commissioned work by Dr. Brant Karrick, titled A Call for Celebration, which will delight concertgoers on the opening night.

Event Details

The gala concerts will unfold at Van Meter Auditorium, starting at 7:30 p.m. each night. The atmosphere is sure to be lively, filled with the notes of nostalgia and the promise of future endeavors. General admission tickets are available for just $10, both at the door and online, making it an affordable evening of musical entertainment that shouldn’t be missed!

Mark your calendars, gather your friends and family, and join WKU as they celebrate a century of musical excellence. For more details, you can reach out to the WKU Department of Music or check out the dedicated 100th Anniversary website for all the latest updates. Bring your love for music, and let’s make some unforgettable memories together!