In the midst of a busy week for North Dakota State’s Performing Arts, the Challey School of Music hosted its University Band Concert on Feb. 29.

Sigurd Johnson and Jeffery Larson conducted the non-audition band. Under their direction, the University Band performed a collection of music from both classical and contemporary composers.

The musical entertainment for the night began with “Fairest of the Fair,” composed by John Philip Sousa. The piece demonstrated the ability of the musicians to portray a feeling of disciplined regality with outburst of emotion waiting to break forth for the background, like a feeling of organized chaos. The piece proved to be a very enjoyable listening experience as it took its time in a stroll-like fashion.

“I really enjoyed this piece, and it is my honor to conduct it for you,” Larson said with pride following the piece.

Next was “Symphonic Suite,” by Clifton Williams, which boasted grand, strong notes that filled the entire auditorium. The selection began intensely and wandered into softer ground during its second half, leaving the audience wanting more.

The next two pieces integrated eloquently performed solos into the arrangements. Samuel Hazo’s “Perthshire Majesty” included a poignant solo at its beginning that establishes it as a reflective, emotional work. Andrew Boysen’s “Tricycle” used a trumpet solo with the musicians using vocals to provide a harmonic backbone.

The evening’s musical entertainment concluded “Lord of the Rings” composed by Johan de Meiji. With music inspired by the classic trilogy of novels the audience in some ways has an aid to help with their interpretation of the music. One could sense how the music audibly illustrated the different themes of a journey. Meiji’s arrangement would smoothly transition from light and airy to thundering and dark.

All of the musical selections were performed with discipline and passion by the NDSU University Band. Information about future concerts can be found on the NDSU performing arts calendar.