In support of the theme “Bach to the Future,” Stephen Rice provided a DeLorean.
The car is used in the movie to time travel. 
The Lion's Roar/Alex Brainard

It is time to go “back” to the Columbia Theatre for the Southeastern Wind Symphony’s Fanfare concert. Last Wednesday, October 14, the Wind Symphony held a performance to mark the “Back to the Future” anniversary as a part of Fanfare. The concert consisted of ten pieces, which included selections such as Johann Sebastian Bach’s “Sleepers, Awake! BMV140” and Johan de Meij’s “T-Bone Concerto.” The Wind Symphony’s performance was titled “Bach to the Future.” 

The opening song was the “Back to the Future” main theme created by Alan Silvestri and arranged by Brennan Arcenaux.

“I knew the anniversary of October 21, 2015 was coming up,” said conductor Glen Hemberger. “It seemed like the perfect way to tie in some Bach music and ‘Back to the Future.’” Stephen Rice provided a DeLorean similar to the iconic car in the movie. Attendees were allowed to sit in the car and pose for pictures. 

Bachelor of music education and conductor Sharie Mahler dressed up as the iconic character from the “Back to the Future” franchise, Dr. Emmett Brown, and conducted the opening piece. 

“It was funny because it was a surprise to the ensemble,” said Mahler. “They had no idea I was dressing up.”

The concert concluded with Joseph Alessi, Principle Trombone of the New York Orchestra, who accompanied the Wind Symphony in performing the “T-Bone Concerto.” This piece was composed of three songs: “Rare,” “Medium” and “Well Done.” 

Although the Wind Symphony only rehearsed with Alessi for a day and a half for this performance, spirits were high as the musicians had the opportunity to perform with him. 

“It was remarkable to play with Joseph Alessi,” said music education major and trumpet player Austin Dugas Higdon.  “He is a phenomenal musician and it was remarkable to play with someone like that.”

Students, professors and members of the community came out and filled The Columbia Theatre to watch the Wind Symphony’s performance. The musicians of Wind Symphony enjoyed their experience in this concert.

“I love playing with the musicians,” said music education major and flute player Maryssa Chartier. “Even if I might not be the best they inspire you to be better, and that’s my goal in life; to be a great musician.”

Wind Symphony will be hosting another concert on Saturday, November 14 at the university inside the Pottle music building auditorium. The concert will consist of music from “Walt Disney.” Pieces will include songs from: “Epcot,” “Frozen,” “The Lion King” and “Aladdin,” along with many others. The next Fanfare event will feature Mark R. Waldman who is a renowned brain researcher and the author of many books about mindfulness and brain function. Waldman will speak in the Columbia Theatre on Tuesday, October 20 at 7:30 p.m.