December 22, 2003

Students working toward Carnegie Hall goal

Conductor Robert Halseth leads the ensemble

The student musicians of the CSUS Symphonic Wind Ensemble have already raised more than $20,000 toward the $100,000 they need to perform at the New York Wind Band Festival’s gala Carnegie Hall concert April 13.

The group was one of two collegiate ensembles to receive a coveted invitation to the festival in November. The festival is an annual educational event for student musicians that includes workshops, clinics and competitions spread over two, week-long sessions. Each session culminates with a public concert at Carnegie Hall.

Budget constraints have made University funds scarce, and the cost of sending 50 students to New York is significant, no matter how rewarding the experience may be. “Each student needs $2,000 to go, or they’ll miss out on the experience of a lifetime,” says music department chair Ernie Hills.

The students ongoing fundraising efforts have included concerts, presentations to potential donor groups and sponsorship solicitations. They don’t want to miss out on playing Carnegie Hall

“It’s the premier concert hall in the United States,” says ensemble conductor Robert Halseth, also director of wind studies at CSUS. “Tchaikovsky opened it in 1891. Playing there would be a tremendous opportunity for our students.”

Donations may be made to the CSUS Trust Foundation, Carnegie Hall Trip at CSUS College of Arts and Letters Development Office, Mariposa Hall 5000, 6000 J Street, Sacramento, CA 95819-6049 or (916) 278-7673.

For media assistance, contact public affairs at (916) 278-6156.

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