Scot Symphonic Band and Pipe Band begin annual tour March 5

The Scot Symphonic Band and The College of Wooster Pipe Band will perform at McGaw Chapel (340 East University Street) on Sunday, March 5 at 3 p.m., the opening concert of the bands’ 46th annual spring tour. 

The tour will continue with performances at Shelbyville High School in Shelbyville, Indiana on March 13 at 7 p.m.; St. Charles East High School in St. Charles, Illinois on March 14 at 7:30 p.m.; and Wauconda High School in Wauconda, Illinois on March 15 at 7:30 p.m.  

Directed by Jeffrey D. Gershman, the band has entertained audiences nationwide during its annual spring tour since 1976. The ensemble’s distinctive uniforms, which consist of kilts with hand-sewn pleats made from the College’s MacLeod tartan plaid, represent Wooster’s Scottish Presbyterian heritage. 

The Scot Symphonic Band will present “come memory,” a program that explores the influence and impact of memory and personal experience on music. Rooted in a deep belief in the importance of inclusive programming, the Scot Symphonic Band performances draw both from the cornerstones of the wind literature and the finest contemporary works. The program will feature the music of John Mackey, James Reese Europe, Ronald Lo Presti, Chen Yi, Victor Herbert, and Omar Thomas. 

Jeffrey D. Gershman is in his first year as professor of music and director of bands at Wooster. He conducts the Wooster Concert Band and serves as the assistant director of the Scot Marching Band, along with teaching classes in conducting and music education. He previously served on the faculties at Capital University, Indiana University, and Texas A&M University-Commerce.  He received his doctorate in musical arts in wind conducting from the University of Texas at Austin and continues to maintain an active schedule as a guest conductor and clinician for bands throughout the country. 

There is no admission fee for the performance, but donations will be accepted to help support the group’s touring costs. More information can be found by email (jharbaugh@wooster.edu) or by phone at 330-263-2419. 

Posted in News on March 1, 2023.