Three things in life are certain: taxes, death, and an uncomfortably humid Kentucky summer. But inevitably, the muggy afternoons turn to crisp fall mornings, bringing a highly welcomed change of season. Neighbors start putting up Halloween decorations, planning for the holiday season, and going to football games. It serves as a reminder that no season is permanent and that with change comes new opportunity. New and exciting opportunities are at every corner in WKU’s Department of Music. Our very own Big Red Marching Band has been invited to march in the 2025 London New Year’s Day Parade – an unforgettable once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. This fall, we will also welcome the largest incoming freshman class in nearly 10 years and new faculty who will teach future educators and mentor young adults to go and do good in the world after graduation.
Come and experience vibrant musical performances at WKU Department of Music this Fall 2024! From captivating solo recitals to dynamic ensemble concerts, our talented students and faculty are ready to inspire and delight. Don’t miss out on a season filled with exceptional artistry and unforgettable performances.
The WKU Symphonic Band, a concert ensemble with over 80 woodwind, brass, and percussion players, performs a range of contemporary original works, classical transcriptions, and traditional marches. The Big Red Marching Band, featuring nearly 300 student musicians and performers, will be performing at all WKU football games, local parades, and during Homecoming Weekend on November 16th.
- British and American Band Classics – Friday, September 27th at 7:30pm – Van Meter Auditorium
- Something Old, Something New, Something Borrowed, Something Blue – Thursday, November 14th at 7:30pm – First Baptist Church
- PRISM Concert – Friday, January 24th, 2025 at 8pm – Van Meter Auditorium
The WKU Choirs, which include Chorale, the Southern KY Choral Society, University Singers, and Treble Choir, as well as the student-run a cappella groups Treblemakers and Redshirts, offer a wide range of vocal and choral repertoire. This fall, audiences can enjoy performances that span classical masterworks, chamber settings, collaborations with instrumentalists, and pop/jazz arrangements.
- An Afternoon of Choral Music, featuring WKU Chorale – Sunday, September 22nd at 4:00pm – First Christian Church
- The Road Home: WKU Choirs in Concert with WKU Alumni Guests – Sunday, October 20th at 4:00pm – Van Meter Auditorium
- Tune Our Hearts, featuring the Southern KY Choral Society, WKU Chorale, and guest instrumentalists – Friday, November 1st at 7:30pm – First Baptist Church
- Winterfest: With Thankful Voices, featuring WKU Choirs – Saturday, November 23rd at 8:00pm – Holy Spirit Catholic Church
The Symphony at WKU is a full orchestra that brings together students, faculty, local professionals, and community members. The Symphony not only continues the 400-year tradition of classical music but also promotes unique collaborations with guest artists, the WKU Choirs, and dancers from the WKU Department of Theatre and Dance.
- Symphonic Classics – Friday, September 20th at 7:30pm – Van Meter Auditorium
- 10th Annual Halloween Concert – Friday, October 25th at 7:30pm – Van Meter Auditorium
- Holidays on the Hill! Featuring the WKU Jazz Band – Friday, November 22nd at 7:30pm – Van Meter Auditorium
Jazz is alive and well in Bowling Green with the WKU Jazz Band. This traditional big band features a full rhythm section and a 15-piece horn section, with students mastering the art of improvisation and rhythmic interaction in this distinctive musical genre.
- Jazz on the Colonnades – Friday, October 11th at 11:30am – FAC Colonnades (outside event)
- Music Through the Decades, featuring WKU Jazz Band and No Deposit Band – Saturday, November 2nd at 7:00pm – Historic Plaza Theatre, Glasgow, KY
The WKU Department of Music is dedicated to cultivating and showcasing outstanding musical talent through a diverse array of performances. Whether you are a seasoned music lover or new to the scene, this fall offers something for everyone. All events are open to the public, and for more details, please contact the WKU Department of Music at 270-745-3751 or visit www.wku.edu/music.
-submitted by WKU Department of Music
