UNK to host nearly 600 students for high school honor band, choral clinic

KEARNEY – The University of Nebraska at Kearney’s Department of Music, Theatre, and Dance will welcome 558 music students from 101 high schools across Nebraska for the annual Honor Band & Choral Clinic on Monday (Jan. 27).

The day-long event, held on the UNK campus, brings together young musicians to collaborate and learn under the guidance of UNK faculty and renowned educators from across the state and nation. Participants will rehearse throughout the day in preparation for two public concerts at the Health & Sports Center.

The first performance, starting at 5:30 p.m., will feature the UNK Wind Ensemble, Festival Band and Honor Band. The second concert, at 7 p.m., will spotlight the UNK Choraleers, Treble Choir, Festival Choir and Honor Choir. Tickets for both concerts will be available for $3 at the Health & Sports Center beginning at 4:45 p.m. Admission is free for clinic participants and pre-school children.

Clinicians leading the rehearsals include Duane Bierman, professor of music and director of bands at UNK, who will direct the Honor Band; Erin Beave, former band director at Hastings High School, directing the Festival Band; John Petzet, associate professor of music and director of choirs at UNK, leading the Honor Choir; and Cal Cross and Molly Gonring, choir directors from Elkhorn South High School, directing the Festival and Honor Choirs respectively.

“This event is a wonderful opportunity for high school students to enhance their musical skills while experiencing the energy and expertise of our faculty and guest clinicians,” said Brian Alber, associate professor of music and one of the event organizers.

For more information, contact Alber at 308-865-8354 or alberbw@unk.edu.