KSU hosts 9/11 Memorial Concert

Interim Associate Dean and Director of Choral Activities, Dr. Leslie J. Blackwell spearheaded the collaboration.

“We realized that we had a unique opportunity, as our scheduled concert would be 20 years after the attacks of 9/11,” she said.

The collaboration involves numerous groups from KSU’s Bailey School of Music (BSOM), including the KSU Chamber Singers, conducted by Dr. Samuel Miller; the KSU Symphony Orchestra, conducted by Dr. Nathaniel Parker; and the Wind Ensemble Brass & Percussion, conducted by Dr. David Kehler.

Internationally acclaimed violinist and BSOM professor Helen Kim is the featured soloist.

Parker said, “Much of the repertoire is of remembrance and mourning—a passionate outcry—as we come together and mourn; but then we can move forward, with an eye towards better days ahead.”

Long said, “Even as we poignantly reflect on the tragic events of 20 years ago, it is important to celebrate human resilience and to acknowledge the courage and goodwill that emerge in challenging times.”

Kehler said, “While this is a memorial concert for a tragic time, I think the concert not only memorializes the events that day but also celebrates the American spirit and our democracy.”

One of the musical selections is “Fanfare for Democracy” by Jim M. Stephenson, a former professional trumpet player until an illness prevented him from playing the trumpet who now is considered one of the best modern-day composers.

Additional selections include Beethoven’s “Funeral March,” Samuel Barber’s “Adagio for Strings” and Peter Tchaikovsky’s “Symphony No. 6” that also is known as the passionate symphony.

Parker added, “To me, a profound thing followed 9/11 in that our country came together. The arts provide a way to bring people together in shared remembrance and shared experience. It’s really powerful, especially after our time with COVID-19.”

The concert marks the first time that the students have performed together in more than a year or longer.

To purchase tickets or make reservations to watch online, visit Bailey School of Music Performances at arts.kennesaw.edu/concerts-and-events/music.php.

The Dr. Bobbie Bailey School of Music at Kennesaw State University is comprised of more than 250 music students and greater than 80 faculty members and professional staff.

Information: arts.kennesaw.edu/music/news/posts/9_11_memorial_concert.php