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SCHOOLS OF MUSIC:

Pacific Crest Wind Symphony

When doctors, lawyers, and preachers, farmers, philosophers, kids and teachers come together in Eugene Symphonic Band, the music forms a common bond.  Founded in 1957 by the late Robert Vagner, the conservatives, environmentalists and mothers, mentors, historians, gardeners and brothers provide an eclectic blend of lifestyles which is channeled into performances that are as exciting, humorous and varied as the musicians of ESB.

Heraldic processions, folk dances and scherzos, show tunes, Sousa marches, polkas, concertos... the repertoire is a cornucopia of the familiar, the obscure, and often features arrangements by present and former members.

ESB presents several concerts throughout the year, including a joint concert with the Middle School Honor Band, which is comprised of talented young musicians from schools throughout the region.

Spreading joy through music, striving for excellence, forging friendships with fellow musicians from all walks of life giving gladly of time and talents in rehearsals and concerts alike: that's Eugene Symphonic Band!

- Meg Graf, flutist, ESB

EUGENE SYMPHONIC BAND MEMORIAM

A BRIEF HISTORY of the Eugene Symphonic Band

1957 -  The group, initially called the Eugene Wind Ensemble, was organized by Robert Vagner to perform unusual music, both contemporary and historical.  The Ensemble had a concert season of two or three concerts a year.  Three rehearsals were set up for each concert, and the entire season paralleled the school year.  Many of the performers were high school, junior high school, college, and university teachers.

1969 - The Ensemble changed character when it was re-organized as a permanent ensemble with regular weekly rehearsals and a set number of concerts in Eugene.  At this time, the underlying purpose of the group was music education through the presentation of concerts to surrounding community areas.

1980s- The Eugene Wind Ensemble changed its name to the Eugene Symphonic Band in an attempt to better communicate the size and character of the group.  ESB organized as a non-profit association, adopted a Constitution and Bylaws, and in 1989, established a budget in order to compensate the Conductor and Band Manager and began its first year of fundraising and the business drive.

The Band performed with a variety of conductors and soloists throughout the decade.  A highlight was performing at the Soreng Theater in the newly completed Hult Center with guest conductor, Frederick Fennell.  The first Oregon Adult Band Conference is hosted by ESB at the UO School of Music.   

1990s- A rich decade of concerts with a variety of guest performers, new band compositions, Adult Band Festivals, clinics, sponsorship of the Dallas Brass, an exchange trip to Canada, and the beginning of the Lifelong Music Scholarship.  Most notable conductor of the decade is Bob Ponto, who stayed on as conductor through the 2003 season.

2000s- The tradition continues…..

Sherry Cossey,  Band Manager       P.O. Box 11413,   Eugene, OR   97440-3613