Bands Faculty Present on Wind Literature, Athletic Bands and Diversity at National Conference

FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. – Christopher Knighten, director of bands, and Benjamin Lorenzo, associate director of bands, both presented at the 2017 College Band Directors National Conference in Kansas City, Missouri, March 15-18.

Founded in 1941, the College Band Directors National Association has national conferences every two years, which feature juried performances and research presentations that represent the highest level of performance, research, and creative activity in the field

Knighten presented A Survey of Repertoire for Solo Voice and Wind Instruments since 1900. Focusing on works for a singer or narrator accompanied by wind and percussion performers, the presentation analyzed the growing popularity of this ensemble with insight on over 125 original works from around the world.

"This information provides content for collaborations of voice and instrumental departments in music schools, as well as collaborations between faculty, students, guest artists, and artists-in-residence," said Knighten.

Lorenzo presented at two separate panels. The first panel highlighted the work of the 2016 Razorback Marching Band. The ensemble was one of eight marching bands from across the country featured at the juried presentation. Other bands selected included Baylor University, Fresno State University, Louisiana State University, West Chester University of Pennsylvania, University of Illinois, University of Oklahoma, and the University of South Carolina.

"Being selected to present at CBDNA along side some of the best marching bands in the country is a big honor for us," said Lorenzo. "We are always excited to share the dedicated work of our students and staff."

Lorenzo was also featured on a panel focused on growing minority membership in CBDNA and increasing the commissioning of works by minority composers. "Music is a universal language and we learn more about others and ourselves when people from every background are able to share their talent and their story," said Lorenzo.  

About the University of Arkansas Bands: The University of Arkansas Bands Program, part of the Department of Music in the J. William Fulbright College of Arts and Sciences, began in 1874 and is one of the oldest band programs in the country. The program has six ensembles including the Razorback Marching Band, Hogwild Band, and four concert bands with over 400 student members representing every college at the university.