November 21, 2005 – Sylvia Bierschenk

University band concert pays tribute to Alfred Reed

NACOGDOCHES, TEXAS - The Stephen F. Austin State University College of Fine Arts and School of Music will present the SFA Chamber Winds and Symphonic Band's "A Tribute to Alfred Reed" concert at 7:30 p.m. on Thursday, Dec. 1, in W.M. Turner Auditorium.

The bands, directed by David W. Campo, SFA associate director of bands, will perform several pieces by the noted American composer and arranger who died Sept. 17, 2005. Included on the program are Reed's "Hounds of Spring," "Armenian Dances" and "My Jesus, Oh What Anguish!" In memory of Reed, the Chamber Winds will perform "Elegy" by John Barnes Chance.

Reed wrote almost 100 compositions and arrangements while serving as a radio production director and associate conductor of the 529th Army Air Corps Band during World War II. Following his release form the Army, Reed began composing and arranging radio, television and film music for NBC and later ABC. From 1966 until his retirement in 1993, he served as professor of music at the University of Miami.

"Reed's prodigious musical output includes many works that have become a part of the core repertoire of the wind band," said Campo. "We are proud to honor his contributions with this concert."

Also included on the program is the Chamber Winds' performance of "Suite for Band" by François-Joseph Gossec. Graduate student Kevin Whitelaw will serve as guest conductor.

Tickets are $5 for adults, $4 for seniors and $2 for students. To order tickets or for more information, please call (936) 468-6407 or (888) 240-ARTS.