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The University of Memphis Marching Band is using a set of instruments that is aged and in disrepair. In most sections of the band, their conditions range from poor to unplayable and unrepairable. We have been able to replace about a third of our instruments since 2020 but are still in need of your support to outfit the rest of the band. We are replacing the older instruments with high-quality models that are durable and will also dramatically increase the performance quality of the band.
Project Owners/Contacts:
Dr. Albert Nguyen, Director of Bands - tnguyen6@memphis.edu
Albert Nguyen, Director of Bands, conducts the UofM Wind Ensemble, directs the graduate level instrumental conducting program, and oversees the Athletic, Symphonic and University Bands. Dr. Nguyen frequently serves as an adjudicator, clinician and guest conductor throughout the country. He received his Bachelor of Arts Degree in Music Education from Arkansas Tech University and the Master of Music and Doctorate of Musical Arts in Wind Conducting from The University of Texas at Austin.
Dr. William Plenk, Associate Director of Bands/Director of Athletic Bands - wjplenk@memphis.edu
William Plenk has been on the faculty of the Rudi E. Scheidt School of Music at the University of Memphis since Fall 2017. Serving as Associate Director of Bands and Director of Athletic Bands, Dr. Plenk oversees the Mighty Sound of the South, Pep Band, Symphonic Band, and teaches other courses within the School of Music. Outside of the University, Dr. Plenk is highly active as a clinician and adjudicator. He has worked with concert bands and marching bands from across the United States, Singapore, and Japan. He received his Doctor of Musical Arts degree in conducting from the University of California, Los Angeles, a Master of Music degree in tuba performance from UCLA, and a Bachelor of Music degree in tuba performance from Ithaca College.
