The College of Music and Dramatic Arts has had a year full of hardships, controversy and milestones.In December 2009, Frank Wickes announced his retirement as Director of Bands, a position he has held for 30 years. Wickes’ retirement starts in June, but the historic roar of Tiger Band won’t be left in incapable hands. Linda Moorhouse has been co-director of Tiger Band since she joined the University faculty in 1985. The College of Music and Dramatic Arts announced Moorhouse as the new Tiger Band director in April.Moorhouse chose not to apply for Wickes’ position as Director of Bands. Moorhouse felt the program was going in a different direction than what she liked, according to Wickes.
“I think in this financial crisis, she chose to stick to her comfort zone,” Wickes said. “Her heart is with the Tiger Band.”As the current semester comes to a close, the position remains vacant. The future for the rest of the bands on campus is still uncertain, and the search for Wickes’ replacement will continue into next semester.”Mr. Wickes has been a powerful leader,” said Rob Dowie, drum major. “Without a director of bands, there is no administrative oversight.”Budget cuts also threatened the University’s dance program this year. “How you can have a land grant university without a dance program is beyond me,” theater professor Richard Holben said.However, after a six-year break, the 11th Dance Concert was held in a newly-renovated Shaver Theatre.CMDA also announced its first distinguished visiting artist, Christopher O’Riley, who will hold the title until 2014.The University announced its three-year deal with O’Riley’s show “From the Top,” which will include community programs, live tapings of the show throughout Louisiana and more broadcast opportunities for college-age musicians.LSU’s A Capella Choir was able to add a new honor to its collection. The choir was invited to perform at the Southern Division American Choral Directors Association Convention. This year marked the choir’s seventh performance at the division level. The choir has also performed twice at the national convention. “The convention isn’t a competition,” said A Capella Choir director Kenneth Fulton. “When you receive the invitation to perform, you have already won.”—-Contact Mary Francois at [email protected]