MHCC Wind Ensemble to Perform at Prestigious All-Northwest Conference

Mt. Hood Community College's (MHCC) Wind Ensemble has achieved a remarkable milestone by being selected to perform at the National Association for Music Education (NAfME) All-Northwest Conference. The concert, which will take place on Friday, Feb. 14, 2025, at 3:15 p.m. at the Spokane Convention Center in Spokane, Washington, is a significant honor for the ensemble, showcasing their excellence in music performance and education.

Led by MHCC Director of Bands and Music Instructor Danielle Davey, the Wind Ensemble was selected after submitting an audition recording featuring pieces performed over the past year. The audition process is highly competitive, with only a small number of ensembles chosen to participate in this prestigious event. MHCC's selection is particularly noteworthy, as it is only the third community college wind ensemble in the last 25 years to be featured at the NAfME regional conference. Typically, the performance slots are reserved for four-year university ensembles, making this achievement even more impressive.

"This opportunity is a dream come true for our ensemble," said Davey. "Our students have worked tirelessly to reach this level, and I couldn’t be prouder to share the stage with them." 

In addition to the performance, the ensemble will be premiering a new, original composition titled "Woman", composed by Erin Keeton-Howard. This two-movement piece celebrates the experience of being a woman, drawing inspiration from themes of empowerment, self-worth, resilience, and community. It explores the unique journeys of women, from motherhood and finding one’s voice to overcoming stereotypes and embracing authenticity. 

Performance Program:

• “First Suite Fanfare,” by Erika Svanoe
• “On Parade,” by Amanda Aldridge
• “Woman,” by Erin Keeton-Howard (World Premiere)
• “One Life Beautiful,” by Julie Giroux
• “Resound,” by Nicole Piunno

This prestigious performance highlights the exceptional caliber of the MHCC Wind Ensemble, solidifying its reputation as one of the leading community college music programs in the region.