Contact: Maridith Geuder
In the midst of his first year at Mississippi State as assistant director of University Bands, Craig Aarhus is laying the groundwork for a community musical collaboration.
Aarhus, in cooperation with MSU's Division of Continuing Education, is inviting local instrumental musicians as young as 15 to join together and help form the Starkville/MSU Community Band. The venture is believed to be the first such town-gown effort of its kind between the East Mississippi city and its neighboring institution of higher learning.
"This outreach effort of the music education department is designed to provide an outlet for local instrumental musicians who may have developed their talents from childhood," Aarhus said. "Our goal is to provide a musical experience that is fun for everyone."
At least two years' playing experience is required for participation, he added.
The group's inaugural meeting is scheduled for Jan. 12 at the MSU Band Hall. Subsequent two-hour rehearsals will take place on most Mondays, culminating with one or two spring concerts.
Aarhus said the group generally will perform a mix of traditional band tunes, along with Broadway medleys, patriotic renditions and other popular music selections. Some instruments will be provided by the university.
"We especially invite those with previous high school or college band experience, as well as church musicians, Famous Maroon Band alumni, talented high school students, and others in the MSU and Starkville communities with band experience," Aarhus said.
Valerie Tate, the continuing education division's program coordinator, said registration may be completed by telephoning (662) 325-2713. "Continuing education academic units also will be available to those who qualify," Tate added.