We’ve had a fantastic 125th anniversary year that so far has included a newly commissioned work by David Maslanka — one of the most highly respected composers of our time (we even awarded him an honorary degree in February), and a tour that culminated in a magnificent performance in Carnegie Hall. Our sincere thanks to the many of you who were among the 1,000-plus audience members.
Now’s the part where all of you come in, as we will cap this auspicious year with a St. Olaf Reunion Band celebration during Reunion Weekend on the Hill.
The highlight of the weekend will be your participation in an alumni band that will rehearse and perform alongside the Minnesota Symphonic Winds (a Twin Cities ensemble founded by the late Mity Johnson; it’s full of Bandies) on Saturday, June 4. An elegant banquet will immediately follow the concert in Stav Hall (including adult beverages; yes — it’s a new day on the Hill!). A short program will help us look back on the heritage of the band and celebrate its future path.
In addition, an exhibit and short video presentation will showcase 125 years of archival photos, memorabilia, video footage, and interviews, and many of you will enjoy catching up with Myrna Johnson.
Following the banquet you’ll be able to continue visiting in the Mellby Lawn Tent with music and an open bar.
Other weekend highlights will include:
- Saturday-night entertainment by G.B. Leighton
- A class that I’ll present Friday afternoon on “A Composer’s Sabbatical — Creating a new Suite for Band”
- An All-Alumni Celebration and lunch on the campus green before the band extravaganza begins
- Bandies will be housed together in Mohn Hall
Schedule: Saturday, June 4
- 2:30 p.m. Rehearsal in Skoglund
- 4 p.m. St. Olaf Reunion Band Concert
- 6 p.m. Gala Dinner in Stav
The repertoire for the alumni band will be Grainger’s Irish Tune from County Derry, Holst’s First Suite in E flat Major, Sousa’s The Stars and Stripes Forever, and my Fantasia in G. We will send pdf copies out ahead of time by way of email. You’ll be asked on the registration form to indicate realistically the most appropriate part assignment for you. Start getting your chops in shape now!
Not much of a player these days? Come anyway. We want all of our St. Olaf Band alumni to come join the festivities.
I look forward to seeing you in June.