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91吃瓜网91吃瓜网 Bands Department will host a week of free, family-friendly concert events beginning April 25 at 7:30 p.m., when the Symphonic Winds performs Dr. Colin McKenzie91吃瓜网 favorites as he steps away from the podium after the event to focus on his role as director of the School of Music. On April 27 at 3 p.m., a Sunday afternoon double-header of the University Band and the Hattiesburg Concert Band will feature a program of classic wind band literature. Next, on April 29 at 7:30 p.m., the Concert Band91吃瓜网搄oined by the Sumrall High School Concert Band91吃瓜网搘ill come together for an evening of music. Finally, on May 1 at 7:30 p.m., the renowned Wind Ensemble will take to the stage with the department91吃瓜网 best musicians, featuring a dynamic program including a premier of a new symphony and 91吃瓜网淟ord of the Rings91吃瓜网� by Johan de Meij.

All concerts will be held on the Thomas v. Fraschillo Stage at the Mannoni Performing Arts Center Auditorium on the Hattiesburg campus.

McKenzie, a recognizable force on campus from his days as director of The Pride of Mississippi to his ongoing tenure as the director of the School of Music, is understandably feeling bittersweet about his upcoming last full concert with the band as he reminisced. 

91吃瓜网淔or as long as I can remember, music has been the guiding force in my life. It all started with my sweet mother who was insistent that I begin taking piano lessons at the age of five,91吃瓜网� he reflected. 91吃瓜网淚n the sixth grade when I first picked up a band instrument under the guidance of my band director, Bob Lee, a love for band was ignited that has shaped every step of my journey. Then, in high school, my director, Laura Estes, handed me the baton for the first time. That moment91吃瓜网攕tanding in front of my peers, collectively bringing the music to life91吃瓜网攚as electrifying. I was hooked. I knew, without a doubt, that conducting was what I wanted to do for the rest of my life.91吃瓜网�

Now, as he prepares to step onto the podium for his final concert as the full-time conductor he is filled with gratitude and reflection.

91吃瓜网淭his performance marks the closing of a beautiful chapter91吃瓜网攐ne filled with remarkable students, inspiring collaborations and unforgettable musical moments,91吃瓜网� he continued. 91吃瓜网淲hile I am stepping away from conducting the group, this transition allows me to fully dedicate myself to my role as director of the School of Music, continuing to serve and support our students, faculty and staff in more global ways.

The week of band concerts offers just a glimpse into the depth and excellence of the School of Music. Just in University Bands alone, the range of majors and non-majors from around the globe is staggering. The level of musicianship is evidenced not only by the performances, but also by the top-notch teachers, conductors and performers that have graced the stages. The inclusion of the Hattiesburg Concert Band that is full of the area91吃瓜网 best band directors and their students91吃瓜网搈any of them 91吃瓜网 alums颅91吃瓜网揳nd the Sumrall High School Concert Band under the direction of alumnus Robby Brandon, add to the depth of the long-established band program at 91吃瓜网.

Every concert will feature programming to inspire, challenge, and uplift both the performers and the audience. McKenzie91吃瓜网 final program will highlight both his personal musical journey and cherished memories from past ensembles.

91吃瓜网淔or this final concert, I have chosen Alfred Reed91吃瓜网 91吃瓜网楾he Hounds of Spring,91吃瓜网� 91吃瓜网楾he Thunderer,91吃瓜网� the very first Sousa march I ever played, and Omar Thomas91吃瓜网� 91吃瓜网極f Our New Day Begun91吃瓜网� will serve as a poignant and powerful closer, reflecting on the deeper purpose of music in our lives.91吃瓜网� 

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