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February 14, 2025
More than 100 middle, high school students to visit SIU for inaugural Woodwind Day
(Editors note: Due to anticipated weather conditions on Feb. 19, the event has been canceled)
CARBONDALE, Ill. — More than 100 middle school and high school students from throughout the region will learn the nuances of playing woodwind instruments at the inaugural Woodwind Day, hosted by Southern Illinois University Carbondale’s School of Music on Wednesday, Feb. 19.
Richard Kelley, director and associate professor of saxophone in the School of Music, said the impetus for the event is to “bring students from the region together, allow them to learn more from experts on these instruments and collaborate with like-minded colleagues.”
“Many of these students come from small schools where they may be the only person playing their instrument, so this exposure to a larger cohort is great for their development,” he said. “Hopefully, they will have a lot of fun as well.”
Media availability
Reporters, photographers and camera crews are welcome to cover Woodwind Day activities. For more information or assistance in arranging interviews, contact Richard Kelley, director, SIU School of Music, at kelley2@siu.edu or call the SIU School of Music office at 618-536-8742 the day of the event.
The School of Music also offers brass and percussions days as part of a series of events to serve the region.
Woodwind Day runs from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., with activities in Shryock Auditorium and Altgeld Hall.
Students will be involved in sessions with their instruments in the morning where they will learn about fundamental and special topics, Kelley said. The students will perform during a large ensemble reading session beginning at 1 p.m. in Shryock Auditorium.
“I hope that the students learn something new about their instruments, and that information encourages them to continue improving as musicians,” he said. “If we inspire them in the right way, they will likely continue playing well beyond high school, hopefully in college and community ensembles. Likewise, having an informed public is critical to the future of the arts. Making an impact with these students will hopefully resonate with them throughout their lives.”
Kelley expects between 100 and 125 middle school and high school students to attend from schools, including:
- Anna-Jonesboro Community High School.
- Carbondale Middle School
- Carterville High School.
- Marion High School.
- Unity Point Community Consolidated School District.
- Vienna High School.