The Troy University Symphony Band will be delivering a tribute to John M. Long in the form of a pair of concerts.
The first is slated for tonight at 7 p.m. inside Claudia Crosby Theater, while the second performance on March 28 at the Davis Theater for the Performing Arts in Montgomery at 7 p.m.
Long is the director of bands emeritus at Troy University and the namesake of the John M. Long School of Music.
He also served as director of bands at Troy from 1965-1996 and he would also hold titles as the dean of the College of Arts and Sciences as well as the School of Fine Arts.
In his 31-year tenure, Long served many roles to students in his duties outside of his work in an official capacity, becoming a mentor to countless aspiring musicians across Alabama on both a collegiate and high school level.
Now many of the students inspired by Long’s work look to return the favor.
[Insert quotes from Dr. Mark Walker, Troy University director of bands]
Despite the Troy University Symphony Band conducting two tribute concerts, the performances themselves are distinct enough to warrant attending both.
Tonight’s concert will be a joint effort alongside the Pearl City High School band from Honolulu and will feature guest conductors Paula Crider and Mike Nakasone, both of whom are close friends with Long.
The second performance at the Davis Theater of Performing Arts will instead feature a collection of Long’s favorite compositions under the direction of Tennessee Tech University professor Joseph W. Hermann and Col. John R. Bourgeois, former director of the United States Marine Band, commonly referred to as “The President’s Own.”
Admission to tonight’s Symphony Band Tribute to Dr. Long at Claudia Crosby is free, but the Davis Theater performance will cost $10.
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