The West Liberty University Music Department in cooperation with St. Mark Evangelical Lutheran Church presents An American Salute! at 7:30 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 11.
“The Wind Ensemble will perform a program of music exclusively penned by American composers to celebrate and honor our service personnel. Selections by Morton Gould, Charles Ives, Robert Russell Bennett and Clare Grundman will frame a special musical tribute to those who are serving or have previously served in our country’s Armed Forces,” said WLU music professor Patrick A. Garrett who is leading the ensemble.
The Wind Ensemble also will be joined by the West Liberty University Singers for a finale performance of The Battle Hymn of the Republic conducted by Director of Choral Activities Dr. Scott Glysson.
The congregation of St. Mark Lutheran Church has hosted a Veterans Day observance for the past 15 years thanks to efforts led by retired Staff Sgt. Les Cline. Cline, Pastor Paul Schafer and congregation members have worked together through the years to honor service members and their families.
“We are so happy to be a part of this annual celebration! The folks at St. Mark are so kind to host us as well as offer a reception in the fellowship hall following our concert,” Garrett said.
Garrett, who joined WLU faculty in the College of Arts and Communication in July of 2012, teaches music education method classes to WLU music majors, as well as trombone lessons and music skills classes for elementary education majors.
Pastor Schafer thanked Cub Scout Pack 34 and Boy Scout Troop 34 led by Virginia and Mark Ackermann, for performing the role of Honor Guard.
The Wind Ensemble rehearses and performs during all fall and spring semesters and is open to all musicians at West Liberty University. Most ensemble members major in music education, performance or technology however students from WLU’s nursing, chemistry, elementary and art education programs and its School of Professional Studies also are represented in the ensemble.
St. Mark’s is located at 141 Kruger Street in the Elm Grove neighborhood of Wheeling.