Highlights of the 2026 Conference Included :
Gary Hill conducting the Intercollegiate Band and leading a session entitled The Long and Winding Road
Al LaFave (President, Northern State University, SD) leading a dialogue on contemporary issues in higher education
The world premiere of Cumulus, the choreographer a W/NW Divisions Bridgeworks-commissioned work by Jodie Blackshaw
Remembrance of A.G. “Mack” McGrannahan for years of service to the W/NW Division conferences
Open discussion forms centered on topics in music and higher education
Multiple social and conversational events
Performing Ensembles
Featured university ensembles (selected by blind peer review):
- California State University, Long Beach — Jermie Arnold
- Boise State University — Myron Peterson
- California State University, Bakersfield — Leo Sakomoto
- Central Washington University — T. André Feagin
- Northern Arizona University — Stephen Meyer
- Sonoma State University — Andy Collinsworth
- University of Utah — Jason Missal
- Western Washington University — Paul Bain
Plus host performances by the Nevada Wind Ensemble and Nevada Chamber Players.
Scholarly Presentations
Peer-reviewed presentations will include:
- Tim Oliver — Past Patterns, Future Possibilities
- Myron Peterson, James M. David, and James Mepham — Our Battered Suitcases
- James Ripley — Louis Ballard: First Native American Composer for Band
- Matthew Schlomer — Virtuosity: Turning Understanding into Instinct
- J. Nick Smith and Trey Harris — Unlocking the Development Potential of Collegiate Athletic Bands
- Sarah Fabian and Anthony Rivera — Stronger Together: Blending Talents for a Thriving Ensemble Culture
Venues & Lodging
Conference events took place in the new Barbara and Harlan Hall Recital Hall and the venerable Nightingale Concert Hall.
