Some of the Southeast’s most talented young musicians will gather at UNCG for three days of intense study Feb. 17-19. Their efforts will culminate in a free, public concert Saturday, Feb. 19, at 2 p.m. in Aycock Auditorium.

Each February since 1990, the School of Music has sponsored the Carolina Band Festival and Conductors Conference. High school participants are competitively selected by audition tape from a five-state area to rehearse and perform in two honor bands under distinguished guest conductors. A total of 320 applications and recordings were received this year for seats in either the 94-member Grades 9-10 Honor Band or the 95-member Grades 11-12 Honor Band.

The Grades 9-10 Honor Band will be led by Dr. Timothy Rhea, director of bands at Texas A&M State University. The Grades 11-12 Honor Band will be led by Dr. Tom Fraschillo, director of bands at the University of Southern Mississippi.

While at UNCG, the students will rehearse under the guest conductors’ guidance, as well as attend master classes with UNCG faculty and the UNCG Wind Ensemble concert, held Friday, Feb. 18, at 7:30 p.m.

While the high school musicians are sharpening their skills, the UNCG School of Music will provide professional educators and college music students the opportunity to broaden their knowledge as well. A coinciding Conductors Conference will be taught by renowned clinician and author Ed Lisk, former supervisor of music in Oswego, N.Y., as well as by UNCG Director of Bands Dr. John Locke.

Contact the UNCG Band Office for more information at (336) 334-5299.