The Florida A&M University Wind Symphony will be performing at Carnegie Hall in New York City on Sunday March 29. The FAMU Wind Symphony will share the stage for 30 minutes with the New England Symphonic Ensemble. According to the university, the performance marks the first appearance of a classical ensemble from a historically Black college or university at Carnegie Hall.
The FAMU Wind Symphony is led by Shelby Chipman, director of symphonic bands at the university. “We are elated about the opportunity to perform on such an iconic stage,” said Dr. Chipman. “Most of all, I am excited about what this means for our student musicians. This invitation proves to them that hard work and dedication truly pay off. Their remarkable talents are being noticed around the nation.”
Dr. Chipman is a graduate of Florida A&M University. He holds a master’s degree from the University of Illinois and a doctorate in music education from Florida State University.
A reception held in honor of the FAMU Wind Symphony will precede their Carnegie Hall performance. The reception is sponsored by alumni, the FAMU Foundation, and university supporters, and its proceeds will provide funds for scholarships, equipment, travel, and other performance needs of the university’s department of music.
Below is a video of the FAMU Wind Symphony performing in 2014.
This year, I am celebrating my 50th college reunion as a Florida A&M University graduate. I am excited about this performance, and I plan to attend.