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Photographs © 2003 Anthony Reimer or Egil & Brith Gundersen (used with permission)

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Conference Article Archive

Wednesday, 02 July — A Very Fond Farewell

Last night's concert of the Florida State University Wind Ensemble was the final appearance for Dr. James Croft as Conductor of their Wind Orchestra. The farewell concert was very well attended, including by people who came from across the ocean just for this concert.

During the concert, WASBE President Dennis Johnson presented Jim with an Honorary Life Membership, the highest title bestowed by WASBE. He joins an elite group, consisting of Frank Battisti, Frederick Fennell, Jan Molenaar, Toshio Akiyama, and Desire Dondeyne.

In the award presentation speech, President Johnson referred to Dr. Croft's "Why WASBE?" comments from the WASBE Council meetings a year ago. These comments, which were eventually published in the September 2002 Newsletter, are republished below.

For more photos of this concert, go to the Photo Album for July 1.

Why WASBE?

by James Croft

When challenged recently by a colleague, I had to think a bit about that which I had long taken for granted. Why WASBE? Let me count the ways that WASBE has added dimension to my professional life.

• First, I have become aware of the amazing differences that identify bands representing different cultures, nationalities and, yes, locales.
• Second, this has made me aware of the literature these bands call their own. These stylistic differences are at once charming, exciting and revealing.
• Third, I have met kindred souls who are attracted to the same magnetic character that marks these wind driven sororities that they and I find so fascinating.
• Finally, I have learned so much from my colleagues around the world. This I gratefully pass on, with insight derived from all of the above, to my students and community.

Why WASBE? What took us so long!?!