Rhodes' <em>History of the Wind Band</em> fills academic niche
Chris Pepple |
Dr. Stephen Rhodes’ History of the Wind Band is now available digitally on the Lipscomb University web site at no cost to the reader, providing broad access to this important work for undergraduate and graduate students interested in the history and development of the modern wind ensemble. This comprehensive history captures the evolution of the wind band from its medieval beginnings through the 20th century repertoire.
“I wrote this book to fill a niche in the music world,” said Rhodes, professor of music at Lipscomb University. “So many band directors just don’t know the musical heritage of the wind bands in which they are performing or conducting.”
Putting the text online was the brainchild of former Lipscomb professor David Hamrick, who now serves as the cataloging librarian at Paul Quinn College in Dallas, Texas. The site gets hits from around the world – most recently from Japan, Australia, Argentina, Poland – as well as across the U.S. Students use the book for research, and professors access the book for various academic purposes.
“I’ve received wonderful correspondence about the quality and the usefulness of the book,” Rhodes added. “The photographs enhance the overall story, and the bibliography provides students with material for a more in-depth study. I’m thrilled to have the book on the Lipscomb web site and available to such a diverse audience.”
Rhodes is founder and director of the Nashville Wind Ensemble, a group of 45 select musicians who perform high-quality band literature. He also serves as co-conductor of the Nashville Double Reed Ensemble. Dr. Rhodes has served as guest adjudicator/conductor for numerous ensembles from the elementary to the university level, as well as serving as judge and clinician for a variety of music festivals. He is a regular conductor for the Tennessee Governor's School for the Arts.
Rhodes also directs the Lipscomb University Wind Ensemble, Jazz Band and String Ensemble. The University Wind Ensemble will perform on Monday, Oct. 12 at 8 p.m. in Collins Alumni Auditorium. The concert is free and open to the public.
Find History of the Wind Band at www.lipscomb.edu/windbandhistory/.