MEDIA ADVISORY
December 5, 2001FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
CONTACT: Elizabeth Conlisk (614) 292-3040
Bierley to receive honorary degree from Ohio State
Internationally acclaimed conductor Keith Brion and his New Sousa Band – a touring band that recreates the pop concerts of composer John Philip Sousa – will present a free concert as a tribute to local Sousa expert Paul Bierley, who is receiving an honorary doctorate that same day from Ohio State. The concert is set for 8 p.m. on Friday (12/7) in Weigel Hall Auditorium, 1866 College Road.
Media are invited to get a sneak peak of the concert from 3 to 4 p.m on Thursday (12/6) in Weigel Hall.
Bierley, a Westerville resident who graduated from Ohio State with a degree in aeronautical engineering, has lived most of his life as a scholar and a musician, playing in the Columbus Symphony Orchestra from 1965 to 1980. During his retirement, Bierley has written several books about Sousa, including “John Philip Sousa, American Phenomenon” and “The Works of John Philip Sousa.”
Among the musicians, who will be wearing replicas of the original Sousa Band uniforms, are Susan Powell, an Ohio State assistant professor of music, and alumna Diana Powers, who is a member of the U.S. Army Field Band. The concert will feature musical favorites such as “The Stars and Stripes Forever” and “Humoresque on Gershwin’s Swanee.”
Seating is limited, so those interested in the concert should arrive early.
WHAT: Internationally acclaimed conductor Keith Brion and his New Sousa Band will present a free concert.
WHEN: Media Availability: 3 to 4 p.m. on Thursday (12/6) in Weigel Hall, 1866 College Road.
Free Concert: 8 p.m. on Friday (12/7) in Weigel Hall.
WHY: This concert is a tribute to local Sousa expert Paul Bierley, a Westerville resident who is receiving an honorary doctorate that same day from Ohio State in recognition of his contributions to the field of music history.