Lee University’s Wind Ensemble will perform its “Firsts” fall concert on Friday, Nov. 22, at 7:30 p.m. in Pangle Hall. This performance, the ensemble’s first of the season, will feature a program inspired by the theme of “firsts,” with a mix of classic and new works.  

The concert will be directed by the ensemble’s new conductor, Dr. Josh Pace, director of bands and assistant professor of music education at Lee.  

“My goal with this selection of music is to both harken back to the genesis of the Lee University Wind Ensemble as well as look ahead – building on the foundation laid for us,” said Pace.  

Some of the pieces being performed in the program are from the first Wind Ensemble concert 25 years ago, while others are among the first pieces written of their kind.  

“We are also excited to perform the world premiere of David Holsinger’s newest piece, which is the first he has written for his lovely wife, Winona Holsinger,” said Pace.  

The program will highlight compositions such as Gustov Holst’s “First Suite in E Flat,” Vittorio Giannini’s “Symphony for Band,” and David Holsinger’s “Nona Dance.”  

Pace joined the School of Music faculty this fall where he teaches courses in music education. Before coming to Lee, he served as the band and orchestra director at Omaha Northwest High School and a doctoral conducting associate at the University of Florida. During his time at Northwest, Pace was the recipient of the CHI Health Top Teacher Award as well as the Nebraska State Band Masters Outstanding Young Band Director Award.  

The Lee University Wind Ensemble is committed to the highest level of performance of instrumental ensemble literature for winds and percussion and performs for special concerts on Lee’s campus throughout the year.  

“We hope that everyone will join the Lee University Wind Ensemble as we share some incredible music that looks back at our legacy and ventures forward into new ‘Firsts!’” said Pace. 

The concert is free, non-ticketed, and open to the public. Livestream viewing will be available at leeu.live/. Pangle Hall is located on the corner of Church Street and Central Avenue.  

For more information, contact Lee’s School of Music at (423) 614-8240 or email [email protected].