University of Arkansas Bands will open its spring concert season with four performances over Feb. 21-24 at the Faulkner Performing Arts Center. The Concert Band and Symphonic Band will perform at 7:30 p.m. on Tuesday, Feb. 21. The Wind Symphony will perform at 7:30 p.m. on Thursday, Feb. 23, and the Wind Ensemble will perform at 7:30 p.m. on Friday, Feb. 24.

The concerts can be viewed live from the program's website. Tickets can be purchased online through the Faulkner Performing Arts Center.

The week of concerts will be anchored by the 2017 University of Arkansas Conducting Symposium, Feb. 24-25.

Designed for instrumental music educators, graduate conducting students, and undergraduate music education majors, this two-day symposium allows twelve participants two opportunities to conduct the University of Arkansas Wind Ensemble and receive conducting feedback from Kevin Sedatole, director of bands at Michigan State University and University of Arkansas conducting faculty and attend lectures that explore the art of conducting.

"We are excited to have Kevin Sedatole join us for a three-day residency. As one of the leaders in conducting pedagogy, he will bring so much insight to our students regarding the art and craft of conducting" said Christopher Knighten, director of university bands. "His residency also allows us to invite public school music teachers from throughout the region to engage with the University of Arkansas Bands and Department of Music as a resource to further their own skills and artistry."

Attendees will include current University of Arkansas music students, regional band directors, and prospective graduate students.

About the University of Arkansas Bands: The University of Arkansas Bands Program, inside the Department of Music in the J. William Fulbright College of Arts and Sciences, began in 1874 and is one of the oldest band programs in the country. The program has six ensembles including the Razorback Marching Band, Hogwild Band, and four concert bands with over 400 student members representing every college at the university.