Concert Band features student conductors

Student conductors take the helm of the Rowan Concert Band, under the direction of Dr. John Pastin, for its performance on Wednesday, March 3, 2010 at 8 pm in Pfleeger Concert Hall.

Rowan students Max Heitman, Steve Goldeck,Mark Kadetsky and Jennifer Kane each take turns at the podium during the concert. The program features performances of Philip Parker's Clowns, Percy Grainger's Handel In The Strand arranged by Brion & Schissel, selections from Bernstein & Sondheim's West Side Story arranged by Duthoit and select movements from Robert W. Smith's The Divine Comedy. The concert concludes with Pastin conducting his own arrangement of Billy Joel's For The Longest Time.

The Concert Band is comprised of music majors and minors, non-music majors from across campus, high school students and community members. The band offers advanced students opportunities to hone their conducting skills while members study the repertoire that exists for large band ensembles and pops programs.

Pastin, Lieutenant Commander and Conductor, US Navy Band (Retired), is a member of the Rowan music faculty and Director of Bands. He came to the university in 1998 after a 30-year career in the United States Navy’s music program. In addition to touring the world with various Navy bands, he served as Conductor and Officer in Charge for the U.S. Navy Band from 1995-1998. He earned numerous awards and commendations for his service and musicianship, including the Legion of Merit presented by then-President Clinton.

PfleegerConcert Hall is located in Wilson Hall on the campus of Rowan University, Route 322 in Glassboro. Admission is $5. Seating is available on a first-come, first-served basis. Rowan students are admitted free with valid ID. For directions and additional information, contact the box office at (856)-256-4545 or visit www.rowan.edu/fpa.