From the Maslanka Archive – No. 9, Paella with David!

From the Maslanka Archive features media and stories of David’s life and work. Did you work with David? Please consider contributing material.

It’s time for another edition of From the Maslanka Archive. We are actively building the Archive, but it won’t be ready for public viewing for a while. In the meantime, we wanted to show off some great items we’ve already collected.

We also wanted to inspire YOU to help grow the collection. We would love to feature you in an upcoming edition! Simply provide us with photos, video, audio, or stories of your time together and you may find them on the front page. 

This week, we are excited to feature pictures from David’s visit with Reed and Jill Thomas during his residency at Middle Tennessee State University in October 2016.

During David’s residency, The MTSU Wind Ensemble gave free public rehearsals for performances of David’s works including Angel of Mercy, Saint Francis, California, and Alex and the Phantom Band. A masterclass was also held for composition students on campus.

The students are very excited about this opportunity. They were quite nervous when they first heard because some of the compositions are more challenging than they may be accustomed to. They started practicing and put a lot of pressure on themselves to be perfect, but now they’re feeling more comfortable. I know they’re going to do great! – Reed Thomas

Dr. Reed Thomas is the Director of Bands and Professor of Music and Conducting at Middle Tennessee State University. His responsibilities include conducting the Wind Ensemble and University Chamber Winds, teaching undergraduate courses in conducting and instrumental methods, graduate courses in conducting and wind and orchestral repertoire, and he guides all aspects of MTSU band program. He is the founding conductor of the Three Rivers Wind Symphony, a professional group of wind and percussion.

Thanks to Reed and Jill for providing these images to the David Maslanka Foundation.

Would you like to be featured in an upcoming edition of From the Maslanka Archive? It’s easy! Please send us anything you have (picture, audio, video, concert poster, concert program, correspondence with David, etc.) and we will feature you!