Dordt's Wind Symphony is a Finalist for the American Prize Competition for the Performing Arts

Dordt University’s Wind Symphony has been named a finalist in the University Wind Band Division for the American Prize Competition for the Performing Arts.

“The exceptional performances and work ethic the students have shown over the past two years is what has enabled this wonderful recognition,” Dr. Onsby Rose, director of instrumental studies and associate professor of music, says. “Being named a finalist is a tremendous honor.”

Other finalists include the University of North Texas Wind Ensemble, the University of Nevada Las Vegas Wind Orchestra, and the New England Conservatory Symphonic Winds—some of the most prestigious college-level wind ensembles in the world.

Being named a finalist is especially rewarding considering the diverse array of majors that constitute Dordt’s ensemble, adds Rose. Other ensembles in the competition consist exclusively of music majors, while 81 percent of students who participate in Dordt’s Wind Symphony study something other than music.

“This makes the recognition even more illustrative of what God is doing through music at Dordt University,” says Rose. “To say I am proud of these students would be a tremendous understatement. I have never been more proud of any group of musicians I have worked with.”

As an institution of higher education committed to the Reformed Christian perspective, Dordt University equips students, faculty, alumni, and the broader community to work toward Christ-centered renewal in all aspects of contemporary life. Dordt, located in Sioux Center, Iowa, is a comprehensive university named to the best college lists by U.S. News and World Report, Forbes.com, The Wall Street Journal, Washington Monthly, and Princeton Review. To learn more, visit dordt.edu.