Western Kentucky University Band Celebrates 100 Years

News Summary

Bowling Green is gearing up for the 100th anniversary of the Western Kentucky University Band in 2025. With a series of gala concerts scheduled for April 25 and 26, the celebrations will highlight the band’s impressive history and growth from 18 members in 1925 to over 400 today. The events will feature special guest performances and the premiere of a commissioned work, culminating in the WKU Big Red Marching Band’s participation in the 2025 London New Year’s Day Parade, marking a historic occasion.

Western Kentucky University Band Marches into Its 100th Anniversary

Bowling Green is abuzz with excitement as Western Kentucky University Band prepares to roll out the red carpet for its 100th anniversary in 2025. That’s right! This means a whole century of heart-pounding music, cherished memories, and incredible performances. To kick off the celebrations, WKU is staging a series of special concerts that are set to be a treat for both the ears and the heart.

A Glimpse Back to 1925

It all began way back in 1925, when the first band took form at what was then known as Western Kentucky Teachers College. Can you imagine it? A tiny ensemble of just 18 members, led by none other than student director Joyce Felts. The following year saw the arrival of faculty director Franz J. Strahm, and the band quickly grew to a more robust 30 members. Fast forward to today, and the WKU band program now serves over 400 students across a variety of ensembles. Talk about growth!

What to Expect at the 100th Anniversary Gala Concerts

Mark your calendars for April 25 and 26, 2025, because that’s when the 100th Anniversary Gala Concerts will take place at Van Meter Auditorium. Both concerts are set to start at 7:30 p.m., and it’s going to be an unforgettable experience. The first night will showcase the WKU Symphonic Band, conducted by Dr. Matthew McCurry, alongside the WKU Wind Ensemble, helmed by Dr. Gary Schallert. These concerts will feature a special lineup, where current and former directors will be sharing the conducting duties. Isn’t that just wonderful?

Adding even more flair, the concerts will have special guests in the form of WKU alumni Brandon Jones from the U.S. Air Force Band and Matthew Carmichael of the U.S. Army Band. It’s a homecoming for them, and they’ll be performing right alongside the students! Sounds like a can’t-miss celebration!

The Second Concert: A Focus on Community and Alumni

The very next evening, the spotlight will shift to the WKU Campus Community Band. This concert promises to deliver extraordinary performances, including a unique arrangement of Delibes’ Flower Duet composed especially by WKU music professor Matthew Herman. Four remarkable alumni percussionists — AJ Cook, Forrest Yankee, Andy Edelen, and Lucas Allen — will also take to the stage to share their musical prowess. Plus, during this concert, MSG Larry Fergusson will be honored with a “Wall of Fame” Award. Such a lovely way to recognize achievements in music!

A Call for Celebration

In honor of this monumental occasion, WKU commissioned alumnus Dr. Brant Karrick to compose an original work entitled A Call for Celebration. This piece will premiere at the first concert, how special is that?

Affordable Access to Great Music

For those eager to join in on the festivities, general admission tickets are priced at just $10. These can be purchased either at the door or online. Affordable and fun — that’s a win-win!

Making Waves Across the Pond

But wait, there’s more! The WKU Big Red Marching Band has also earned a unique opportunity. They are set to perform in the 2025 London New Year’s Day Parade, a dazzling event that draws over 500,000 attendees. Plus, the parade gets broadcasted to an audience of around 500 million viewers across PBS. Wow, that’s some serious exposure!

When the invitation to perform in the London parade came through in September 2023, it couldn’t have been more perfectly timed with the band’s centennial celebration. This band will be the largest to ever participate in the London parade, making WKU history in more ways than one.

Additionally, members of the Big Red Marching Band will have the chance to fit in a little visit to Paris, adding that extra sprinkle of magic to their trip. With a diverse membership that includes students majoring in everything from music to biology, the band is more than just a group; it’s a melting pot of talent and enthusiasm.

As we gear up for this fantastic milestone, there’s no denying that the WKU band program has become a source of pride and joy for its members. Here’s to a century of music, memories, and a whole lot more to come!

Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic

HERE Resources

WKU Big Red Marching Band Shines at London New Year’s Day Parade

Additional Resources

• WBKO: WKU Bands Celebrate 100 Years with 100th Anniversary Gala Concerts
• Wikipedia: Western Kentucky University
• WNKY: Where to Watch Big Red Marching Band Perform in London New Year’s Day Parade
• Google Search: WKU Big Red Marching Band
• BG Daily News: Obituary for Joseph Stites
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Marching Band
• WBKO: WKU’s Big Red Marching Band to Perform in London New Year’s Day Parade
• Google News: WKU Big Red Marching Band London
• Lane Report: WKU Big Red Marching Band Invited to Be in Britain’s Biggest Parade
• Google Scholar: WKU Music History