WSC Newscenter | Glenn Miller Performance to Honor College's Centennial

The Wayne State College Black and Gold Performing Arts Series will continue its 2009-2010 season with a special return performance by the world famous Glenn Miller Orchestra in honor of the college's centennial year. The performance will take place at 7:30 p.m. April 21 in Ramsey Theatre on the WSC campus.

Touring for more than 50 years, The Glenn Miller Orchestra has delighted generations of fans with distinctive arrangements and contemporary compositions. The most influential bandleader of the Swing era, Miller became a legend with his clarinet-centered sound in such tunes as "In the Mood," "Body and Soul," and his signature theme, "Moonlight Serenade." Currently led by outstanding trombonist Larry O'Brien, the group presents nearly 300 performances while traveling more than 100,000 miles each year.

The legendary Glenn Miller was one of the most successful of all the dance bandleaders in the Swing era of the 1930s and '40s. A lengthy string of hit records, constant exposure on radio broadcasts, and the drawing power of the orchestra for concerts and dances built and sustained the band's unprecedented popularity. In 1942 Miller disbanded his musical organization at the height of its popularity, to volunteer for the Army. He then organized and led the famous Glenn Miller Army Air Force Band which performed for servicemen throughout Europe. On Dec. 15, 1944, Major Miller took off in a single-engine plane from England to precede his band to France, and was never seen again. The army declared him officially dead a year later.

The 19-member band continues to play many of the original Glenn Miller arrangements as well as more modern selections that naturally lend themselves to the Miller style and sound. The entire repertoire for the Glenn Miller Orchestra now exceeds 1,700 compositions.

Tickets for general admission are on sale at the WSC Business Office at a cost of $10. Tickets will be available at the door beginning at 6:30 p.m on the night of the performance but seating is limited and purchasing tickets in advance is recommended. For ticket information please call the WSC business office at 375-7517.

For more than 50 years the Wayne State College Black and Gold performing arts series has presented cultural programming to serve the northeast Nebraska region.