MSOE students participated in the Wisconsin Intercollegiate Honor Band at the Wisconsin Concert Band Association State Convention at UW-Eau Claire. The convention hosts clinics for band leaders and features performances from honors bands from different age groups.

The Wisconsin Intercollegiate Honor Band was comprised of more than 40 students from eight universities across the state, including nine students from MSOE. Dennis Glocke, director of concert bands at Pennsylvania State University, served as the guest conductor. The group played four concert band pieces, the most notable piece being 1st Suite in E Flat by Gustav Holst.

MSOE students enjoyed joining forces with bandmates from across the state. “It’s an amazing feeling when everyone meshes perfectly and good music is made from it,” said Andrew Wisniewski, band member and mechanical engineering student.

At MSOE, students can earn credit for participating in concert ensembles, including Concert Band, Jazz Ensemble, String Orchestra and Concert Choir. There are also non-credit music options, such as Pep Band or Jazz Combo. Students are able to practice their music in the Patricia E. Kern Conservatory of Music.

“My favorite part about being a part of the MSOE music program is everyone is there because they want to be and enjoy it,” said Wisniewski.

The MSOE group that participated in the Wisconsin Intercollegiate Honor Band included Jehan Cabuay, Tim Cole, Mason Engelking, Alex Hernandez, Evelyn Horvat, Rae Johnson, Charly Pyper, Noah Reynolds, Andrew Wisniewski and Dana Legg, coordinator of music programs.

The group hopes to participate in the Wisconsin Intercollegiate Honor Band again next year. “There will be a different guest conductor and music so I’m excited to see how it will be,” said Wisniewski.