The UNLV Wind Orchestra proudly presents American Celebration – 250, a spectacular evening of music honoring the United States' 250th anniversary, at 7:30 p.m. on Thursday, Nov. 19 in Artemus W. Ham Concert Hall on the UNLV campus. This extraordinary performance brings together some of the most distinguished figures in American wind band history to celebrate our nation's rich musical heritage. Tickets are available here.
Under the leadership of Director of Bands Professor Thomas G. Leslie and Assistant Professor Dr. Zane S. Douglass, the UNLV Wind Orchestra will welcome three legendary guest conductors: Colonel John R. Bourgeois, former director of "The President's Own" United States Marine Band; Colonel Lowell E. Graham, former commander and conductor of the United States Air Force Band; and Dr. Linda R. Moorhouse, Dean of the School of Music at the University of Illinois and an internationally respected conductor and educator. Together, these distinguished musicians represent generations of artistic excellence, leadership, and service to the American wind band tradition.
The program will feature an exhilarating collection of patriotic favorites, celebrated masterworks, exciting contemporary compositions, and brilliant transcriptions. From the stirring sounds of America's musical past to the innovative voices shaping its future, American Celebration – 250 pays tribute to the composers, traditions, and artistic achievements that have helped define the nation's musical identity.
Beyond the concert stage, this remarkable gathering continues UNLV's long-standing tradition of bringing the giants of the wind band profession directly to our students. Through mentorship, collaboration, and shared musical experiences, these influential artists help inspire the next generation of performers, conductors, and educators. Their presence reflects the UNLV Area of Wind Band Studies' enduring commitment to artistic excellence and to preserving and advancing the wind band tradition.
Join the UNLV Wind Orchestra for an unforgettable evening celebrating 250 years of American history through the power of music, with a reception to follow. With legendary conductors on the podium, exceptional student musicians on stage, and a program honoring the past while embracing the future, American Celebration – 250 promises to be a highlight of the concert season!
About the UNLV College of Fine Arts
The College of Fine Arts educates, empowers, and engages creative people to become visionary change-makers in the arts through acts of imagination. At UNLV we believe the arts are an essential good for society. We make education relevant and accessible through our programs and outreach. We create new knowledge in the arts. We celebrate independent thought and the power of bringing people together to foster creativity.
