UWF Dr. Grier Williams School of Music presents the Symphonic Band in concert
- The UWF Symphonic Band, featuring musicians from various university majors, is dedicated to musical growth and performs a diverse repertoire ranging from classical to contemporary under the direction of Dr. Sean Kelley.
- Participation in the band is open to all students, with auditions required for music majors and for those aiming for solos or principal positions, and the band conducts regular rehearsals twice a week throughout the academic year.
- The recent concert at Gulf Breeze Methodist Church showcased the band's excellence and passion, drawing a strong audience reaction and highlighting the university's commitment to a vibrant arts scene.
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On a beautiful Sunday evening, the University of West Florida Dr. Grier Williams School of Music presented the Symphonic Band in a captivating concert at the Gulf Breeze Methodist Church. This event marked a significant moment in the musical landscape of the university, showcasing the band's commitment to performing the finest wind band and chamber wind ensemble repertoire, both traditional and contemporary.
The Symphonic Band: A Brief Overview
The UWF Symphonic Band is an ensemble dedicated to providing opportunities for musical growth among its members, regardless of their major. Composed of talented musicians from all parts of the university, the band is open to wind, percussion, string bass, and piano players. Under the new direction of Dr. Sean Kelley, the ensemble continues to excel, performing four concerts per year on campus in the Mainstage Theater of the UWF Center for Fine and Performing Arts, with occasional concerts in other venues.
Rehearsal Schedule
The Symphonic Band rehearses twice a week, with a dedicated schedule:
- Fall Semester: Tuesdays and Thursdays, 4:00 pm to 6:00 pm, in Building 82 (CFPA) Room 140 (Rehearsal Room).
- Spring Semester: Mondays and Wednesdays, 4:00 pm to 6:00 pm, in Building 82 (CFPA) Room 140 (Rehearsal Room).
Audition Process
While participation is open to all students, music majors must audition for full membership. Non-music majors may also join without an audition but must complete the necessary enrollment forms and register for the class. Those wishing to be eligible for solos, first part placement, and section principal (first chair) are encouraged to audition. The audition process typically occurs during the few days preceding each new semester.
Concert Highlights
The concert featured a diverse repertoire that ranged from classical masterpieces to contemporary compositions. The band's performance was notable for its precision and passion, highlighting the dedication of its members. Each piece was meticulously rehearsed, showcasing the ensemble's ability to blend traditional and modern elements seamlessly.
The Role of Dr. Sean Kelley
Under the new direction of Dr. Sean Kelley, the Symphonic Band has seen a resurgence in its musical excellence. Dr. Kelley's leadership has brought a fresh perspective to the ensemble, focusing on the development of each member's skills and the overall musicality of the band. His commitment to performing the finest wind band and chamber wind ensemble repertoire has been evident in the quality of performances.
The Concert Experience
The Gulf Breeze Methodist Church provided an intimate setting for the concert, allowing the audience to connect closely with the performers. The venue, with its excellent acoustics, enhanced the musical experience, making every note resonate deeply. The concert was a testament to the university's dedication to fostering a vibrant arts scene.
Audience Reaction
The audience was visibly moved by the performance. The standing ovations and warm applause were a clear indicator of the band's success in captivating the hearts and minds of the listeners. The evening was filled with moments of joy, reflection, and admiration for the talent displayed on stage.
Conclusion
The UWF Dr. Grier Williams School of Music's presentation of the Symphonic Band in concert was a memorable event that highlighted the university's commitment to musical excellence. The Symphonic Band's dedication to performing both traditional and contemporary repertoire under the direction of Dr. Sean Kelley has made it a standout ensemble in the academic community. As the university continues to nurture its musical talent, it is clear that the future of music at UWF remains bright and promising.
References
- UWF Event Calendar: Symphonic Band Concert
- UWF Dr. Grier Williams School of Music presents the Symphonic Band in concert
- UWF Symphonic Band Information and Audition Instructions
