ALUMNI REUNION BAND A SUCCESS!

On April 26, 2008, alumni of the UM Wind Ensemble gathered to share music and memories at the 2008 Alumni Reunion Band, organized by Dr. Joseph P. Ardovino, Director of Bands at UM. 

The Alumni Reunion Band was directed by Mr. Spencer Shaw.  Mr. Shaw was the Director of Bands at UM from 1975-1988.  He also served the University for many years as the trombone instructor. 

During the day, alumni rehearsed under Mr. Shaw’s baton in preparation for the evening concert.  While enjoying well-deserved breaks, the alumni were able to catch up with each other and reminisce.  During the afternoon break, participants were treated to refreshments courtesy of Art’s Music Shop.

At 6:00 p.m., the alumni were joined by some of their favorite retired UM professors at a banquet in Anna Irvin Dining Hall.  Special guests at dinner included Dr. Philip Williams, UM President, who gave the opening remarks; Dr. John W. Stewart, former UM Music Department Chair and UM President, who gave a thoughtful address on the history of the Music Department; Dr. Joseph and Dr. Lori Ardovino, Mr. and Mrs. Spencer Shaw, Dr. and Mrs. Ed Robertson, Dr. and Mrs. Ovide DeLage, Dr. Robert Cowan, Dr. and Mrs. Robert Wright, and Dr. and Mrs. Martin Cochran.  Several alumni took the microphone and told entertaining stories about their time at UM.  The menu was delicious, and everyone lingered after dinner taking photos and visiting with old friends.

The evening ended with a concert in the newly-renovated Palmer Auditorium.  The program included a stellar performance by the Spring 2008 UM Wind Ensemble directed by Dr. Joseph P. Ardovino.  After a brief intermission, a group of alumni entertained the crowd with a few jazz selections.  To close the evening, the Alumni Reunion Band gave their concert.  The program was varied and fun, and included Lassus Trombone with a nod to the nine trombone players in the back of the ensemble!

Pictures from the Alumni Reunion Band can be viewed online (and prints can be ordered!) at http://www1.snapfish.com/groups/montevalloband/cobrandOid=1000.  Everyone, participants, organizers, and special guests, thoroughly enjoyed the Alumni Reunion Band and look forward to the next time we can reunite!