KWU Brass Day & Strings Day

Music Department in February 

The Music Department at Kansas Wesleyan University has hosted many outreach events for high schoolers. The newest is Brass Day, which will be held this February. With Salina Strings Day returning this month as well. 

Brass Day

Excitement fills the air at KWU as the Music Department prepares to host its first-ever Brass Day. A landmark event poised to become a highlight of the university’s musical calendar. Spearheaded by the dynamic new brass adjunct instructor, Professor Barlow. In collaboration with Jake Montoya, Director of Athletic and Jazz Bands, this event promises a day of immersive musical experiences for young brass musicians from across the state. The energy and enthusiasm surrounding this inaugural Brass Day are palpable. Signaling the beginning of what is hoped to be a long-standing tradition at KWU.

“This event is the first of its kind not just for KWU, but for most high school students in Kansas.” Jake Montoya

The scale of the event is truly impressive, drawing over five schools from across Kansas. Bringing together approximately 35 talented high school brass students. These students will have the unique opportunity to collaborate with their peers, learn from renowned instructors, and perform together in a culminating concert. The collaborative nature of Brass Day is a key element. Fostering camaraderie among young musicians and providing a platform for them to connect with others who share their passion. It’s a chance to build relationships, share musical insights, and experience the joy of ensemble performance.

KWU Music Center | Photo by Merissa Bailey Rios

Originally scheduled for an earlier date, Brass Day was unfortunately postponed due to illness. However, the anticipation has only grown. The event is now set to take place on February 12th, promising an unforgettable experience for all involved. The grand finale of the day, a public concert showcasing the students’ hard work and newly acquired skills. This concert will be held in the beautifully renovated Sams Chapel at 2:30 PM.

Full Experience

The day itself will be packed with enriching activities designed to enhance the students’ musical abilities. This will broaden their understanding of brass performance. Under the expert guidance of Professor Barlow, the students will participate in intensive rehearsals, honoring their ensemble skills and preparing for the concert. In addition to rehearsals, the day will feature technique classes, providing students with valuable insights into improving their playing and mastering their instruments. A masterclass led by Barlow will offer further individualized instruction and guidance, allowing students to refine their skills and receive personalized feedback.

Beyond the musical benefits, Brass Day Serves as an invaluable recruitment opportunity for KWU. It provides a chance to showcase the university’s commitment to music education, highlighting the expertise of its faculty and the quality of its programs. Furthermore, the event allows prospective students to experience the welcoming atmosphere of the KWU campus and witness firsthand the newly renovated music spaces.

Salina Strings Day

The Kansas Wesleyan University Music Department is constantly offering new and exciting events for the community. One is the annual Salina Strings Day, a collaborative celebration of string music. Under the guidance of Dr. Rosario, Assistant Professor of Music and Director of Strings at KWU. Now in its third year, this event has become a cornerstone of the local music community, fostering connections between KWU’s string orchestra and the talented young musicians of Salina South and Central High Schools.

Salina Strings Day provides a unique opportunity for students from different levels to come together, share their passion for music, and learn from one another. The event showcases the combined talents of these ensembles, culminating in a public concert that demonstrates the power and beauty of string music. More information on a past Strings Day is HERE, from last year’s successful Strings Day. 

Student Opportunity

A testament to the event’s success and its impact on the community is the establishment of the Stein Scholarship. Awarded annually to a deserving senior string player from one of the participating high schools, this scholarship honors the legacy of Eric Stein, a Salina legend whose contributions to the local music scene are immeasurable. Stein’s vision and dedication were instrumental in founding the Salina Symphony, and this scholarship serves as a lasting tribute to his commitment to nurturing young musicians. The Salina Journal featured an article about some of the Stein family members. The article provides more information about the family’s success in musicianship, and the scholarship they have provided from Salina students. 

KWU Music Center

This year’s Strings Day promises to be particularly special, as it will be held in the newly renovated Sams Chapel. This beautiful venue offers ample space, making it the ideal setting for the combined orchestra and their audience. Previously held in the auditorium of the former Marymount College, the move to Sams Chapel reflects the event’s continued growth and its commitment to providing a high-quality experience for all involved.

Student Experience

Reese Kimmi, Sophomore

Reese Kimmi is a sophomore Criminal Justice and Sociology major. Kimmi is from Salina KS and went to Salina South High School. She attended the Salina Strings Day for two years while in high school. Witnessing the very first year it began and working the event as a college student last spring semester.

Kimmi enjoyed the event stating, “Meeting and performing with students my age from other high schools was a fun experience. Playing alongside college students was an amazing opportunity to witness a higher level of musicianship.”

KWU Music

Mark your calendars for these exceptional music events! These are wonderful opportunities to support young musicians and experience the collaborative spirit of both Brass Day and Strings Day. Don’t miss this chance to witness the magic of the music unfold!

Brass Day- February 12th at 2:30PM in Sams Chapel

Salina Strings Day- February 13th at 7:00PM in Sams Chapel