TROY, Ala. (TROJANVISION) — The Troy University Symphonic Band held its annual spring concert, bringing music, celebration, and community together inside the Claudia Crosby Theater.
Despite rainy weather, a supportive crowd filled the theater to hear the ensemble perform a program designed to appeal to a wide range of musical tastes. The concert featured smooth ballads, technically demanding selections, and powerful moments highlighted by the French horn section, creating a dynamic evening for audience members.
One of the night’s standout moments came during the opening performance of the iconic “Star Wars Theme.” Audience member Bryson Grimsley, a senior instrumentalist, said the performance immediately captured his attention.
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“It was really cool,” Grimsley said. “I’ve been a lifelong Star Wars fan, I’ve watched the prequels, sequels and the remakes, so it was really cool to see something that you just really enjoy in person.”
Earlier in the semester, the ensemble was invited to debut an original composition by a local artist. Tuesday night marked the first live performance of that piece. Director Dr. Jerianne Larson said the experience provided students with a meaningful opportunity to connect with the evolving tradition of wind band music while premiering new works.
“It was really special to get to do something that teaches the students where wind band history is coming from, but also to premiere a piece by Joseph Turrent, who has written some truly wonderful music,” Larson said.
The concert concluded with a standing ovation from the audience and a surprise celebration for Larson, as band members and attendees sang “Happy Birthday” to the director on stage.
The spring concert was the final scheduled performance for the Symphonic Band this semester. However, over the summer the School of Music’s “Sound of the South” is gearing up to host two summer band camps that aim to bring young musicians together focusing on musical growth and collaboration.
The dates for these events will be June 7-11 for Concert Band Camp and June 14-18th for Leadership Camp
