It is a short while since our extraordinary adventure whilst visiting your University! Thank you so much for this fabulous and enriching musical experience at your unique University. The commitment that the students showed when playing `Mysteries of the Horizon’ was total and resulted in a stellar performance of my concerto – I could not have wished for more! The Wind Symphony’s approach to rehearsal was always professional and hard working and again reflects on the good work that is happening in your school.

I have said this on many occasions to Jeff Matthews (Director of Bands) that Northwestern’s approach to music-making and education is exceptional and the students are most fortunate to be in this artistic oasis. Very few great achievements happen in life by accident, and it is obvious to me that the dedication amongst the University staff is the key to your institution’s ongoing immense success –  your winning formula is simple it seems, in that the students’ musical education and welfare always come first. I am continually impressed by your students’ inquiring minds and the way they ask pertinent questions, which is a great way to learn and gain self-confidence. Beyond my project, attending Northwestern’s production of “Next to Normal” showed another aspect of the creative work that it happening at your school.

A special thank you to Cornet soloist Harmen Vanhoorne, guest conductor Reed Thomas and to all for helping me understand fully  the meaning of `Southern Hospitality’!!

Guest conductor Reed Thomas hugs solists Harmen Vanhoorne after a breathtaking performance of `Mysteries of the Horizon’ with the Wind Symphony at Northwestern State University 16/02/17 (Louisiana, USA)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Soloist Harmen Vanhoorne – ‘perfection personified’!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Jeff Matthews congratulates maestro Reed Thomas and Harmen Vanhoorne

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Though I do not have a recording or video from our visit to Northwestern State, here is a performance they did last time I visited when they performed my `Earthrise’ under the baton of their Director of Bands Jeff Matthews.