UVA Wise Seeks Youth Musicians for Free Upcoming Summer Conservatory

Break out the brass, woodwinds and percussion because the annual Summer Conservatory, hosted by UVA Wise, is back.

For the first time since the Covid pandemic, UVA Wise Bands is putting on its Summer Conservatory on July 8-11 from 1 to 4 p.m. 

At no cost to them, any young musicians who play woodwinds, percussion or brass instruments from the eighth through twelfth grades are encouraged and welcome to attend. 

“This is an incredible opportunity for any young musician looking to sharpen their performance skills,” said UVA Wise Bands Director Rick Galyean. 

UVA Wise-led instructors—including College staff and undergraduate music students—work with the students to help them improve their playing skills as concert band members. 

Along with full band rehearsals, students will also receive instruction unique to the individual instruments they play. 

As part of the conservancy, students will rehearse from 1 until 4 p.m. each day, he said. 

On July 11, the conservatory will culminate in a concert by the students at 5 p.m. at the College’s Black Box Theater.

“Music is so important for young person’s lives. It is empowering and speaks directly to the soul. As Elton John said, “Music has healing power. It has the ability to take people out of themselves for a few hours,” Galyean said. “We hope this will enrich the lives of our budding musicians and performers.”

Students will also receive a T-shirt and have a cookout on the final day of class. 

For more information contact Rick Galyean at 276-328-0235 or bands@uvawise.edu.