欧美AV

The University of Southern Mississippi鈥檚 Bands Department will host a week of free, family-friendly concert events beginning April 25 at 7:30 p.m., when the Symphonic Winds performs Dr. Colin McKenzie鈥檚 favorites as he steps away from the podium after the event to focus on his role as director of the School of Music. On April 27 at 3 p.m., a Sunday afternoon double-header of the University Band and the Hattiesburg Concert Band will feature a program of classic wind band literature. Next, on April 29 at 7:30 p.m., the Concert Band鈥搄oined by the Sumrall High School Concert Band鈥搘ill come together for an evening of music. Finally, on May 1 at 7:30 p.m., the renowned Wind Ensemble will take to the stage with the department鈥檚 best musicians, featuring a dynamic program including a premier of a new symphony and 鈥淟ord of the Rings鈥� by Johan de Meij.

All concerts will be held on the Thomas v. Fraschillo Stage at the Mannoni Performing Arts Center Auditorium on the Hattiesburg campus.

McKenzie, a recognizable force on campus from his days as director of The Pride of Mississippi to his ongoing tenure as the director of the School of Music, is understandably feeling bittersweet about his upcoming last full concert with the band as he reminisced. 

鈥淔or as long as I can remember, music has been the guiding force in my life. It all started with my sweet mother who was insistent that I begin taking piano lessons at the age of five,鈥� he reflected. 鈥淚n the sixth grade when I first picked up a band instrument under the guidance of my band director, Bob Lee, a love for band was ignited that has shaped every step of my journey. Then, in high school, my director, Laura Estes, handed me the baton for the first time. That moment鈥攕tanding in front of my peers, collectively bringing the music to life鈥攚as electrifying. I was hooked. I knew, without a doubt, that conducting was what I wanted to do for the rest of my life.鈥�

Now, as he prepares to step onto the podium for his final concert as the full-time conductor he is filled with gratitude and reflection.

鈥淭his performance marks the closing of a beautiful chapter鈥攐ne filled with remarkable students, inspiring collaborations and unforgettable musical moments,鈥� he continued. 鈥淲hile I am stepping away from conducting the group, this transition allows me to fully dedicate myself to my role as director of the School of Music, continuing to serve and support our students, faculty and staff in more global ways.

The week of band concerts offers just a glimpse into the depth and excellence of the School of Music. Just in University Bands alone, the range of majors and non-majors from around the globe is staggering. The level of musicianship is evidenced not only by the performances, but also by the top-notch teachers, conductors and performers that have graced the stages. The inclusion of the Hattiesburg Concert Band that is full of the area鈥檚 best band directors and their students鈥搈any of them Southern Miss alums颅鈥揳nd the Sumrall High School Concert Band under the direction of alumnus Robby Brandon, add to the depth of the long-established band program at Southern Miss.

Every concert will feature programming to inspire, challenge, and uplift both the performers and the audience. McKenzie鈥檚 final program will highlight both his personal musical journey and cherished memories from past ensembles.

鈥淔or this final concert, I have chosen Alfred Reed鈥檚 鈥楾he Hounds of Spring,鈥� 鈥楾he Thunderer,鈥� the very first Sousa march I ever played, and Omar Thomas鈥� 鈥極f Our New Day Begun鈥� will serve as a poignant and powerful closer, reflecting on the deeper purpose of music in our lives.鈥� 

Click to find these events and for more information.