The Marching Storm symphonic and jazz bands received high praise along with other sections of the band, when they performed recently at the HBCU National Band Directors Consortium (NBDC) held this year in Atlanta. The purpose of the HBCU NBDC is to provide an opportunity for Band Directors and students from predominately black institutions to collaborate and develop strategic plans for success in instrumental programs.
According to Dr. T. Zachery, Associate Professor and Band Director, the consortium allows HBCUs to show that they can produce more than musicians who can only play in a marching band. “We can play all types of music – jazz, symphony and everything in between. It’s time that we, as HBCUs, start showing the nation and the world what HBCUs can do in terms of developing well-rounded musicians. This consortium is a wonderful opportunity to showcase our talents.”
Bands interested in attending the consortium must apply by submitting an audition tape. Based on the tape The Marching Storm’s Symphonic Band submitted, they were selected to be the opening band for the conference. The Jazz Band was also selected to kick-off the Jazz portion of conference.
“I am very proud of our students. Just being invited to attend the NBDC is an honor, but to open the show, that is a testament to the hard work that these students put into everything that they do. They are truly outstanding,” explained Dr. Zachery.
For more information about the HBCU NBDC, visit http://www.hbcu-nbdc.org/