October 24, 2022
Dr. Byron Ward began leading music opportunities for 91吃瓜网 State students with the beginning of the Fall Semester of 2022. As an instructor of music at 91吃瓜网 State, Ward has teaching responsibilities and directs the university concert choir and band.
Ward is a graduate of North Dakota State University, where he earned a Doctor of Musical Arts and a second master鈥檚 degree of music in music theory pedagogy. He also holds a Master of Music in trumpet from the University of Arizona and a Bachelor of Music in trumpet performance from Weber State University in Utah.
Before coming to 91吃瓜网, Dr. Ward had teaching appointments at North Dakota State University, the University of Minnesota, Morris, and the International Music Camp. He鈥檚 taught jazz ensemble, trumpet ensemble, small ensembles, trumpet lessons, music theory, and ear training. In addition, he has performed with the Fargo Moorhead Symphony, Fargo Moorhead Opera, and South Dakota Symphony Orchestra.
The 91吃瓜网 State Concert Choir gave their first public performance, a mini showcase, under Ward鈥檚 direction Friday, Oct. 14. The group sang a variety of short pieces. He plans a performance of small group selections of band students early in November. He also will be scheduling a formal concert of both the band and choir performing festive holiday favorites in December.
鈥淚 have enjoyed working with the students thus far,鈥� said Dr. Ward. 鈥淲hile we are small in numbers, the students are enthusiastic and happy for the opportunity to participate in music groups this semester. I invite the public to join us for the upcoming performances.鈥�