Everyone knows the saying, “Time flies when you’re having fun.” That’s especially true at the Western Kentucky University Music Department, where concerts, recitals, celebrations, and clinics fill the calendar. From WKU Choirs’ hugely successful alumni reunion weekend to the Big Red Marching Band’s appearance in the 2025 London New Year’s Day Parade last academic year, the department continues to up the tempo with no intention of rest in Fall 2025!
We are ready and excited to welcome a new freshman class in August, bringing fresh perspectives, energy, and a passion for music. These talented students, along with our returning Hilltoppers, will contribute to the vibrant performances and musical experiences that define our department and inspire audiences year-round.
This year marks the 60th anniversary of the Potter College of Arts and Letters (PCAL), home to the Music Department. PCAL will celebrate its 60-year legacy by highlighting its rich history, recognizing the achievements of its students and faculty, and showcasing the vital role the college continues to play in the arts, humanities, and social sciences at WKU.
The WKU Bands will also continue celebrating their 100th Anniversary – a milestone first marked in Spring 2025. The festivities began in April with a Gala Weekend honoring past and present WKU Band members and directors, and included tributes to the late Professor Joe Stites and alumna Kelsey Dunn, whose contributions and memories remain deeply cherished. The celebration will continue on November 15 with a spectacular Alumni Marching Band event – details to come!
With over 100 events each year, there’s always something to experience at the WKU Music Department. Follow us on Facebook and Instagram to stay up-to-date on upcoming performances and celebrations.
Fall 2025 Large Ensemble Events
Big Red Marching Band – Featuring nearly 300 student musicians and performers, the BRMB will perform at all WKU football home games, local parades, and during Homecoming Weekend on Saturday, November 1. Join us for a special WKU Bands 100th Anniversary Alumni Marching Band event on November 15!
WKU Symphonic Band – A concert ensemble with over 80 woodwind, brass, and percussion players, performing contemporary original works, classical transcriptions, and traditional marches.
•Friday, September 26 at 7:30pm – Van Meter Hall
•Thursday, November 20 at 7:30pm – Bowling Green High School
WKU Choirs – Includes Chorale, the Southern Kentucky Choral Society, University Singers, Treble Choir, and student-run a cappella groups Treblemakers and Redshirts. This fall’s performances span classical masterworks, chamber settings, collaborations with instrumentalists, and pop/jazz arrangements.
•An Afternoon of Choral Music featuring WKU Chorale – Sunday, September 21 at 4pm – Location TBA
•Sunday, October 19 at 4pm – Van Meter Auditorium
•Southern Kentucky Choral Society – Friday, November 7 at 7:30pm – First Baptist Church
•Winterfest – Saturday, December 6 at 8pm – Holy Spirit Catholic Church
The Symphony at WKU – A full orchestra combining students, faculty, local professionals, and community members. The Symphony continues the 400-year tradition of classical music while fostering unique collaborations with guest artists, WKU Choirs, and WKU Department of Theatre and Dance.
•Friday, September 19 at 7:30pm – Van Meter Auditorium
•Friday, October 31 at 7:30pm – Van Meter Auditorium
•Holidays on the Hill! – Friday, December 5 at 7:30pm – Van Meter Auditorium
WKU Jazz Band – A traditional big band with a full rhythm section and 15-piece horn section, where students develop improvisation and rhythmic interaction in this distinctive genre.
•WKU Jazz Band at the Colonnades – Friday, October 3 at 11:30am – Fine Arts Center Colonnades
•WKU Jazz Band at the Capitol – Sunday, November 23 at 5:30pm – The Capitol Theatre
The WKU Department of Music is dedicated to cultivating and showcasing outstanding musical talent through a diverse array of performances. Whether you are a seasoned music lover or new to the scene, this fall offers something for everyone.
All events are open to the public. For more details, contact the WKU Department of Music at 270-745-3751 or visit www.wku.edu/music.
-submitted by WKU Department of Music
