Play Live Radio
Next Up:
0:00
0:00
0:00 0:00
Available On Air Stations

Purdue Bands 4/21 Preview

Mark Simons / Purdue University

There are three chances to hear Purdue University bands this weekend! The Purdue Wind Ensemble, Symphonic Band, Collegiate Band, Concert Band, Varsity Band, and University Band are all performing Friday, and Saturday afternoon/evening. Guest conductor Loras Schissel, a senior musicologist at the Library of Congress, is a leading authority on the music of Percy Grainger, and conducts the Blossom Festival Band. WBAA's John Clare spoke with Jay Gephart, Doug Fletcher, and Matt Conaway about the showcase.

Learn more about the concerts here.

Purdue Bands & Orchestras boasts one of the most extensive concert band programs in the country, offering six different bands with membership based on musical ability and a varied approach to programming. The breadth of opportunities allows students to participate on a level that matches their ability and interest – from the serious musician to the dedicated hobbyist. Each concert band rehearses two to three days per week for two hours each day, and presents two concerts each semester.

John Nasukaluk Clare is comfortable behind a microphone, streaming video or playing violin. A former broadcaster for NPR, John has previously worked with Voice of America, the Canadian Broadcast Corporation and stations in Texas, Kansas, Nevada, California, and Pennsylvania. In 2005, Clare earned the Deems Taylor Award from ASCAP for radio broadcasting, citing his work on 20/20 Hearing. Having performed with famed tenors Luciano Pavarotti and Andrea Bocelli, John has worked with the Mozart Festival Texas, Mid Texas Symphony, Nevada Chamber Symphony, Shreveport Symphony, Abilene Philharmonic and Wichita Symphony Orchestra.
Related Content