The Lakeland Concert Band’s first performance took place on Nov. 19. The concert was directed by Chris Werner, director of bands and assistant professor of music, and was hisfirst time back after undergoing surgery in August for esophageal cancer. Fourty-eight students, who represent many academic majors, make up the band. Classic band works by Gustav Holst and Henry Fillmore were featured with a collection of newer compositions that built upon the theme of “Bright!” These included “Sun Dance” by Frank Ticheli, “Hymn to the Dawn” by Kimberly Archer, “Aurora Awakes” by John Mackey, “Lullaby for Noah” by Joseph Turrin and “Illumination” by David Maslanka.

According to lakeland.edu, Werner stated that a week before his surgery is when he programmed the concert. “This concert is purposefully designed to be happy, invigorating, inspiring and bright,” said Werner. Lewis Schmidt, former Lakeland director of bands, was also welcomed back as a guest conductor.