Western Hosts Colorado Honor Band Festival Led by Renowned Marine Band Director

High school musicians from across Colorado filled Western Colorado University’s Quigley Hall from February 19 to 21 for the 73rd annual All-Colorado Honor Band Festival and Gunnison Volunteer Fire Department Benefit Concerts.

In all, 49 students representing 11 Colorado high schools traveled to Gunnison to rehearse and perform under the direction of Colonel John Bourgeois, the 25th director of “The President’s Own” United States Marine Band.

Over a distinguished 39-year career as a French hornist, arranger, and director with the Marine Band, Bourgeois served nine presidential administrations and led the ensemble at four presidential inaugurations.

Hailed as a “national treasure” by former Secretary of the Navy John Dalton and “America’s bandmaster” by Colin Powell, Bourgeois led student rehearsals during the three-day festival. He also served as guest conductor of the Western Symphonic Band in a rousing performance of John Philip Sousa’s “The Gallant Seventh” during Thursday evening’s showcase concert, and during a Saturday afternoon performance by the All-Colorado Honor Band, which was held as a benefit for the Gunnison Volunteer Fire Department.

In addition to rehearsing with the full ensemble, Honor Band students also participated in small-group sectionals with Western’s Music Department faculty and toured the campus.

“This event allows students from all over the state to gather on campus and gain firsthand experience of Western and its musical offerings,” said Dr. Ross Venneberg, Western’s Director of Bands and Brass. “It often leads some students to pursue their collegiate studies here and participate in Western’s music ensembles.”