Spring 2025 is packed with milestones and unforgettable performances at Western Kentucky University! This year, we celebrate the 100th anniversary of WKU Bands, honoring a century of musical excellence and tradition. WKU Bands have been a cornerstone of the university, inspiring audiences and showcasing talent across the globe. Most recently, the Big Red Marching Band represented WKU by leading the prestigious 2025 London New Year’s Day Parade, bringing the spirit of the Hilltoppers to a huge international stage. Join us in celebration of this landmark at the WKU Bands 100th Anniversary Concert on Friday, April 25th at 7:30pm in Van Meter Hall.
In February, the WKU University Singers, directed by Dr. Lauren Whitham, will take the spotlight at the Kentucky Music Educators Association (KMEA) conference. Selected from ensembles across the state, their featured performance underscores WKU’s reputation for musical excellence.
This spring’s feature performance is the Mainstage Opera production of “Dido and Aeneas,” a timeless masterpiece by Henry Purcell. With performances on April 4th and 5th at 7:30pm and a matinee on April 6th at 2pm in Van Meter Hall, this production promises to captivate audiences with its powerful storytelling and exquisite music. Don’t miss this showcase of the department’s finest vocal and theatrical talent!
Finally, don’t miss the 29th Annual PRISM Concert on Friday, January 24th at 8pm in Van Meter Auditorium. This electrifying event showcases nearly every performance ensemble in the department, from the Wind Ensemble and Steel Drum Band to Jazz and Guitar Ensembles. With seamless transitions, creative staging, and high-energy performances, PRISM is a one-of-a-kind celebration of musical artistry and collaboration. Here is just a taste of who else you may hear from during the evening…
The WKU Wind Ensemble, directed by Dr. Gary Schallert, is the premier wind and percussion ensemble on campus. The ensemble has performed at the Kentucky Music Educators Association (KMEA) convention nine times in the past decade and at the College Band Directors National Association Southern Division Convention, including a standout performance in Charleston, South Carolina. Internationally, the ensemble has toured Russia and Costa Rica and recently performed at London’s historic Cadogan Hall.
Directed by Drs. Paul Hondorp and Lauren Whitham, WKU Choirs include three large SATB choruses, a treble choir, and two a cappella groups, the Treblemakers and the Redshirts. These ensembles have a storied history of performances at KMEA and the American Choral Directors Association (ACDA) Southern Division Convention. They have toured internationally and are celebrated for their dynamic performances of classical and contemporary works.
Under the direction of Dr. Sarah Herbert, the WKU Jazz Band delivers diverse jazz repertoires, from swing standards to contemporary pieces. The traditional big band setup allows students to hone their improvisation skills and ensemble interaction.
Directed by Dr. Mark Berry, the WKU Steel Drum Band brings high-energy performances featuring Caribbean, Latin, and Brazilian music. With 55-gallon oil drums, they create vibrant, beach-inspired atmospheres for audiences.
Led by Mr. John Martin, the WKU Guitar Ensemble explores works from the Renaissance to the 20th century, offering students opportunities for live performance and skill enhancement.
WKU Chamber Ensembles, including numerous instrumental groups, showcase collaborative musicianship and precision. Generally working without a conductor, these ensembles require members to be highly aware and sensitive to each other’s parts as they present a more intimate performance setting for both performers and the audience.
I invite students, adults, families, and friends of all ages to attend the 29th anniversary of the WKU PRISM Concert. Tickets are $15 for general admission and $20 for reserved seating, and all proceeds go towards music scholarships.
In addition to PRISM, be sure to visit www.wku.edu/music for a full calendar of Department of Music events throughout the Spring 2025 semester including:
WKU Bands – March 7, April 25 and 26
WKU Choirs – February 2, March 9, and April 27
The WKU Symphony – February 28 and May 2
WKU Mainstage Opera: Dido and Aeneas – April 4 & 5 (7:30pm), April 6 (2pm)
Join us for a semester filled with celebration, music, and artistry at WKU. We look forward to welcoming you to our Spring 2025 events!
WKU Department of Music: 270-745-3751 or visit www.wku.edu/music.
-submitted Zach Lopes, WKU Department of Music
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