CWU Wind Ensemble seeks support from community to attend international conference

A select group of talented Central Washington University students is preparing to travel to Gwangju, South Korea, for the esteemed World Association of Symphonic Bands and Ensembles (WASBE) Conference in July, and they are seeking support from the community to help cover expenses.

The invitation to the WASBE Conference marks a historic milestone for CWU as it is the first time the university has received an invitation to attend the prestigious event. Furthermore, it will be the inaugural performance by CWU students at the WASBE Conference, underscoring the institution's reputation for excellence in music education and performance.

“Being selected to present a featured concert at the 20th WASBE International Conference in South Korea is a crowning achievement for our band program in our 98-year history,” said CWU Director of Bands Dr. T. André Feagin. “The Wind Ensemble is comprised of some of the finest brass, percussion, pianist, string, and woodwind performers within the department of music, as selected through a competitive audition.”

WASBE is the only international organization of wind band conductors, composers, performers, publishers, teachers, instrument makers and friends of wind music. Feagin explained that is the only organization completely dedicated to enhancing the quality of the wind band throughout the world and exposing its members to new worlds of repertoire, musical culture, people, and places.

The invitation to the WASBE Conference is a testament to the outstanding caliber of CWU's music program and the dedication of its students and faculty. The conference offers a unique opportunity for CWU students to gain valuable experience, broaden their musical horizons, and forge connections with professionals in the field of symphonic bands and ensembles.

As Feagin and the Wind Ensemble prepare for this landmark event, the university welcomes support from the community to help offset the costs associated with travel, accommodation, and participation fees. Donations from generous individuals and organizations will enable more students to seize this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity and represent CWU with pride on the global stage.

“Funds raised make it possible to alleviate the financial burden of our most deserving students and ensures that we can make this well-deserved honor a reality,” Feagin said. “There is no doubt in my mind that this will be a positive, life-altering experience for our students.”

To support students' participation in the conference, please visit the WASBE fundraising page or email Rebecca.Thornton@cwu.edu for information about how to contribute.