Role

:

Ensemble

Period

:

Modern

Genre

:

Band

 

 

Keyboard

 

 

Vocal

 

The Arizona State University Symphonic Band is a renowned classical music ensemble that has been entertaining audiences for over six decades. Founded in 1955, the band has become a staple of the Arizona State University (ASU) music program and has earned a reputation for excellence in performance and education. The ensemble was established by Dr. Richard Strange, who served as the director of bands at ASU from 1955 to 1970. Under his leadership, the Symphonic Band quickly gained recognition for its high-quality performances and dedication to musical education. Dr. Strange's legacy continues to influence the band's mission and values to this day. Over the years, the ASU Symphonic Band has been comprised of a diverse group of talented musicians, including undergraduate and graduate students, as well as community members. The ensemble is open to all ASU students, regardless of their major, and auditions are held each semester to determine membership. The Symphonic Band has had several notable conductors throughout its history, including Dr. Gary W. Hill, who served as the director of bands from 1970 to 1996. During his tenure, the band continued to grow in size and reputation, and he led the ensemble on several international tours, including performances in Europe and Asia. Under the direction of Dr. Hill, the ASU Symphonic Band also received numerous awards and accolades. In 1981, the band was invited to perform at the prestigious Midwest Clinic in Chicago, which is considered one of the most important events in the world of instrumental music education. The band's performance was well-received, and it helped to solidify the ensemble's reputation as one of the best in the country. In addition to its performances at the Midwest Clinic, the ASU Symphonic Band has also been invited to perform at several other notable events and venues. The ensemble has performed at the Arizona Music Educators Association Conference, the College Band Directors National Association Conference, and the National Band Association Convention, among others. One of the highlights of the ASU Symphonic Band's history was its performance at the Kennedy Center in Washington, D.C. in 1995. The band was invited to perform as part of the Kennedy Center's Millennium Stage series, which showcases some of the best performing arts groups from around the world. The ASU Symphonic Band's performance was a huge success, and it helped to raise the ensemble's profile on a national level. In addition to its performances, the ASU Symphonic Band is also dedicated to music education and community outreach. The ensemble regularly hosts workshops and clinics for local high school and middle school students, and it has also performed at several community events and festivals. Today, the ASU Symphonic Band continues to thrive under the direction of Dr. Jason Caslor, who has served as the director of bands since 2016. Dr. Caslor is a highly respected conductor and educator, and he has brought a fresh perspective and new ideas to the ensemble. Under Dr. Caslor's leadership, the ASU Symphonic Band has continued to perform at a high level and has received several awards and honors. In 2018, the ensemble was invited to perform at the College Band Directors National Association Conference in Kansas City, Missouri, which is considered one of the most prestigious events in the world of instrumental music education.

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