The New Mexico State University (NMSU) Wind Symphony has been chosen to perform at the upcoming College Band Directors National Association (CBDNA) Southwestern regional conference. This marks the first time since 2010 that an NMSU band has been selected for this prestigious event. The CBDNA conference, which will be held in Kansas City from February 28 to March 2, features college concert bands from the Southwest region.
NMSU's Wind Symphony is considered the top instrumental ensemble in the music department. According to Michael Mapp, director of bands at NMSU and conductor of the Wind Symphony, the selection process for the ensemble is rigorous. Students are chosen through auditions, and excerpts are posted on the music department website for preparation. Auditions are held at the beginning of each semester.
Participating in the CBDNA conference is a great honor for the NMSU Wind Symphony. Lincoln Larsen, principal trumpet in the ensemble, expressed his excitement, stating, "CBDNA is an honor to perform for and how well we perform is how college directors around the country will perceive the music program here at NMSU." Angelica Chavez, a flute player in the symphony, emphasized the personal growth and commitment required for such a performance, saying, "The CBDNA performance really gives you something to work for. You have to prepare your part and show that you're wanting to be a better musician."
The Wind Symphony's journey to the CBDNA conference began with their first performance of the academic year in the fall of 2023. The "European Hodge-Podge Concert" showcased a mix of European pieces with different sounds. Since then, the ensemble has continued to grow and develop. Mapp stated, "They improve at every rehearsal and continue to learn how to come together to make music. We are on track to give a stellar performance in Kansas City."
The Wind Symphony is composed of approximately 45 to 50 students, both music majors and non-majors. Mapp noted that there are more non-music majors in the group this year compared to previous years. Jason Christopherson, a bass clarinet player in the band, expressed his passion for being part of the ensemble, saying, "There's something very rewarding about getting together with a group of people to make something beautiful. To be a part of the music I listen to is really special."
In preparation for the conference, the Wind Symphony will be giving two concert performances of the music they have been preparing. The first performance will take place at the annual Southwest Honor Band festival on February 17, followed by a second performance on February 26 at the Atkinson Recital Hall on campus. Both performances are free and open to the public.
For more information and updates on events and performances, visit the NMSU music department website at https://music.nmsu.edu/.
