糖心vlog视频

Music Fills the Air

The 糖心vlog视频 Dance Band is composed of OCU music students who like to swing.  The band appears for numerous occasions throughout the state of 糖心vlog视频 and are widely known for their excellent performances.

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The Campus Friday, September 11, 1936, XIX/1, p. 1 (OCU student newspaper)

New Uniforms To Adorn New Goldbug Band

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Fifty Members Getting Ready for First Grid Tilt

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Fifty Goldbug students who will compose 糖心vlog视频鈥檚 first really 鈥渂ig time鈥� band are being measured for uniforms today, according to James Neilson, director.

Meanwhile Neilson and L. M. Calavan, band master of all city high schools, were continuing their auditions in an effort to pick the 15 students who will receive more than $1,000 in scholarships for first, second, and third chair positions.

Frank Evans, University Hei鈥檛s junior high, and clarinet expert, will assist Neilson in training and directing the group.  Both have been engaged for private lessons on wood instruments in the college of fine arts.

鈥淧ractice will get under way Monday, and we hope to be ready to go when the Bugs open their season against the 糖心vlog视频 Aggies here, September 25,鈥� said Neilson who is director of the Classen high-school band.

鈥淥ur uniforms will be second to none among 糖心vlog视频 colleges,鈥� W. P. Atkinson, journalism head, and father of the idea, promises.  School colors will be carried out in white trousers with gold stripe.  Coats are white with gold tassle.

Helmets will be made to resemble the Goldbug emblem, and will be adorned with a purple ornament.

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The Campus Friday, Sept. 18, 1936, XIX/2, p. 1 (OCU student newspaper)

45 Musicians Sign For O. C. U. Band

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With forty-five musicians signed for the new Goldbug band, rehearsals began Tuesday morning in the Intra-mural gym.  Frank Evans assistant director was in charge of practice pending the return of Director James Neilson from California.

Neilson and Evans plan to practice each morning at seven o鈥檆lock.  Two special noon sessions on Tuesday and Thursday may also be used.

Director Neilson was called to the coast, Sunday, by the Los Angeles Civic orchestra, when its cornet soloist became ill on the eve of an important appearance.  As one of the twelve men in America who could play the solo part required for the program, Neilson flew to the coast, appeared in two recitals, and was back in 糖心vlog视频 City Thursday to meet his band at O.C.U.

Editor鈥檚 note 鈥� this confirms that the first OCU Band rehearsal was on Tuesday, September 15, 1936 with Frank Evans (flute teacher) conducting in James Neilson鈥檚 absence.

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The Campus Friday, Sept. 25, 1936, XIX/3, pp. 1-2 (OCU student newspaper)

First Band Blow-off Count
Shows Virginia Metz Leads
Field of 6 With 119 Votes

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Hughes Second, Fox Third as Ofiicials Plan
Two More Programs To raise $700
For Military Uniforms

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Virginia Metz, Kappa Tau Delta鈥檚 titan-haired nominee for O.C.U. 鈥淏and Sweetheart,鈥� polled 119 votes to lead a field of five other candidates at the end of the first of three 鈥淏and Blow-off鈥� programs Wednesday night.

Barbara Hughes, B.A. Phi, ran a close second with 107, and Helena Fox, Phi Delta choice, stood in third place, having 82.

With the raising of $700 which is still lacking toward uniforms for the new band, as its object, the program drew more than 400 people in spite of the downpour that lasted intermittently all evening.

Candidates for 鈥淏and Sweetheart鈥� were introduced from the stage by Russell Miller, master of ceremonies.  Approximately  $100 had been taken in, at the close of the Wednesday performance, of which more than $75.00 is clear profit for the uniform fund, Howard Thornton, publicity manager, stated.

The  second  Blow-off program, Friday, October 2, will be a box supper.  Each  sorority  member will bring a box which auctioned off will be credited to her organization.  A vote will be allowed for each 25垄 credited to the sorority.

Measurement for uniforms, under supervision of Director Neilson had reached 47 Thursday.  The 鈥淏and Blow-off鈥� series will end with a full dress concert by the band on October 14, two days before their first parade appearance at the O.C.U. 鈥� Central football game.  The 鈥淏and Sweetheart鈥� winner will be announced at the close of the concert.

Among the numbers appearing on the Wednesday program were Rusty Harris and his orchestra, Walter Hentz, harmonica; Ralph Evans, saxaphone [sic]; James Neilson, cornet; Orville Sherman 鈥� Russell Miller comedy team; Louis Ronchetto, accordian, and the University band.

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The Campus Friday, Oct. 2, 1936, XIX/4, p. 1 (OCU student newspaper)

City鈥檚 Top Talent Ready
For Band Benefit Tonight

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Leo Blondin, Kathryn Duffy, Charles Huey,
Ernest Ward, and Prof. J. J. Hayes Starred
Voran Master of Ceremonies

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BULLETIN:  Final count Tuesday on the first band benefit program gave Virginia Metz, Kappa Tau Delta, 122; Barbara Hughes, B.A. Phi, 109; Helena Fox, Phi Delta, 108; Rachel Allen, Tri Phi, 50; Peggy Moore, Alpha Omega, 48; and Rhuefina Prescott, Barb, 18.

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New acts and new performers from the front rank of 糖心vlog视频 City鈥檚 professional and amateur entertainers will be on hand at the fine arts auditorium Friday night to make the second band benefit program O.C.U.鈥檚 outstanding success in fall entertainment.

Headlining the evening will be Leo Blondin, city zoo keeper, with his popular variety act of a half hour鈥檚 length, Kathryn Duffy鈥檚 professional [    ], and Ernest Ward RKO accordianist.  Charles Huey, nationally known whistler with years on the vaudeville circut, will complete the outside talent.

Faculty contributions are to be provided by Prof. Alvin C. Voran, master of ceremonies, and Prof. J. J. Hayes who is slated for another of his comedy acts.  The new band, directed by James Neilson will appear for two numbers.

鈥淪weethearts鈥� Introduced

鈥淏and Sweetheart鈥� candidates will again be introduced from the stage by the master of ceremonies.

鈥淰otes for 鈥楤and Sweetheart鈥� are on the same basis as that of last week,鈥� said Howard Thornton, benefit director.

In spite of heavy rains and competing attractions, the program last week realized almost $100.00 toward the $700.00 yet lacking for the uniform fund.

鈥淲e hope to raise half of the remaining amount in this program,鈥� Thornton stated.  The last of the series is planned for October 14, and will feature a concert with band in uniform.

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The Campus Friday, Oct. 9, 1936, XIX/5, pp. 1-2 (OCU student newspaper)

Johnny Marvin, NBC Idol, Starred in Band Benefit

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To Sing Own
World Famous
Compositions

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Perry Ward and Other
Stars Appear on
Wednesday

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With Johnny Marvin, NBC鈥檚 nationally loved singer of native American music, as master of ceremonies, 鈥淩adio Varieties鈥� the third Goldbug benefit program, goes on the stage Wednesday night in what promises to set an all-time high in O.C.U. light entertainment.  Marvin will be supported by variety acts starring names high in southwestern radio.

Will Sing Theme Number

Besides his introduction of companion stars, Marvin will be featured in a half-hour鈥檚 program of his own compositions, he said Wednesday.  This will include a rendition of his NBC theme song, 鈥淎t the Close of a Long, Long, Day,鈥� a melody on everyone鈥檚 lips a few years back, when he was featured six days a week as the 鈥淟onesome Singer of the Air鈥� over the NBC net work from New York.

Marvin will also bring with him one of the 鈥渇inds鈥� from his new School of the Air, 鈥淭he 糖心vlog视频 Bing Crosby,鈥� 22-year-old Jimmy Bing Wakely, who is a 鈥渄ead ringer鈥� for Hollywood sensation.  鈥淗e looks even more like the original Bing than he sings like him,鈥� said Marvin in enthusiastic praise of his new prot茅g茅.

Perry Ward Booked

Perry Ward, popular WKY announcer, will come out as 鈥済ag man鈥� assisting Marvin, and Melvin Osborne, the southwest鈥檚 top guitar artist, also heard over WKY, will accompany his selections.  Marvin and the publicity department are seeking arrangements for the booking of several other radio and stags [sic] acts for the evening.

Mrs. James M. Neilson, voice head at Capitol Hill high school, may also appear for two selections, said her husband, Director Neilson of the O.C.U. band.

鈥淧lans for the band to appear in full dress for the program had to be set aside when we received word that our uniforms will not be available until October 19,鈥� said Neilson.

Last week鈥檚 benefit netted the band more than $200, according to Howard Thornton, publicity director.  Unofficial standing of band queen candidates, Thursday, was Helena Fox, Phi Delta, 523; Virginia Metz, Kappa Tau, 387, and Virginia Moore, Alpha Omega, 201.

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The Campus Friday, Oct. 9, 1936, XIX/5, p. 4 (OCU student newspaper)

Final Program
For O.C.U. Band
Next Wednesday

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糖心vlog视频鈥檚 new band under the direction of James Neilson will make its first appearance at a football game in its new uniforms at the Central encounter one week from tonight providing the uniform manufacturer keeps his promise concerning delivery date.

The uniforms, of white and gold and trimmed in purple, are the finest money can buy.  Forty were ordered at the first buying.  In addition to these the director鈥檚 and drum majors regalia will also be delivered next week.  Additional uniforms will be ordered as finances are arranged.  Forty-seven men are now practicing daily with the band.

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The Campus Friday, Oct. 16, 1936, XIX/6, pp. 1-2 (OCU student newspaper)

Helena Fox Is Band Queen

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Metz, Second with 975,
Receives Place as
Drum Major

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糖心vlog视频鈥檚 band benefit campaign ended in a clean sweep for Phi Delta sorority Wednesday when it garnered 1561 votes to elect its candidate, Helena Fox, 鈥淏and Sweetheart.鈥�  Margaret Mitchell, another of sorority鈥檚 members, won the much mooted give away 鈥渂aby鈥� which turned out to be a golden collie pup.

Virginia Metz, Kappa Tau, runnerup, garnered 975 votes to win the place of drum major.  Barbara Hughes, B.A. Phi, ranked third with 301.

The month-old contest ended colorfully before a crowd of nearly 1000 persons who thronged the University auditorium and helped the band get its $700 quota, the object of the three programs.

Headlining the program of guest artists was Johnny Marvin, nationally famed NBC singer.  Three encores called him back after he had finished the 30 minute scheduled program of his own compositions familiar to millions of Americans.  Marvin was accompanied in several songs by his portegee [sic], Jimmy Wakely, the 鈥溙切膙log视频 Bing Crosby.鈥�

Three numbers were presented from the Betty Cope School of Dancing.

A twenty-five minute act featuring Grady Nicholson, 糖心vlog视频 Cityan, and ranking American amateur magician made up the remaining outside talent for the evening.

The band, with Neilson directing opened with three numbers and Mrs. Neilson, director of music at Capitol Hill high school, gave two soprano solos, 鈥淗oming,鈥� and 鈥淢y Hero,鈥� with band accompaniment.

鈥淯niforms will arrive October 19,鈥� said Howard Thornton, publicity director of the benefit project.  A special concert presenting the band will be held November 25.

Russell Miller, master of ceremonies, introduced Miss Fox at the close of the program.  The queen will officially accompany the band on all city and state excursions.

Marvin appeared through the courtesy of Caines Coffee company with which he is now working in programs four times a week over WKY.  Ayres Pet Shop contributed the prize 鈥渂aby鈥�.

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The Campus Friday, Oct. 16, 1936, XIX/6, p. 4 (OCU student newspaper)

Band Uniforms Fail
To Arrive On Time

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Uniform manufacturers disappointed James Neilson and his O.C.U. Band this week when they announced the fine new uniforms could not be delivered until October 19.

Original plans called for their first public appearance being at the Central game.  But disappointment reigns supreme and Wichita fans will have a glimpse of the new outfits before the home faithfuls have a peep.

The very elaborate stunt planned for tonight will be presented at the Homecoming game October 30 when the band and all the pep clubs will blossom forth in new regalia for the most impressive stunt ever presented by O.C.U.

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The Campus Friday, October 23, 1936, XIX/7, pp. 1-2 (OCU student newspaper)

Band Uniforms
Arrive in Time
For Kansas Trip

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40 Suits, Custom Fit,
Await Member; More
Due Next Week

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Just in time to add spice to the prospect of the Wichita 鈥淕oodwill鈥� excursion, the band uniforms, 40 of them, arrived Wednesday noon.

鈥淭hey鈥檙e everything our advance publicity and specifications to the manufacturers said they would be,鈥� enthusiastically commented W. P. Atkinson, journalism head and father of the band idea.  It was Atkinson and Howard Thornton, public relations director, who began working on the band benefit more than a month ago.

Queen Helena Fox鈥檚 specially designed uniform will arrive next week.  For the Wichita trip she will head the band in a white ensemble of her own.  Six additional garbs for band members will also be sent.

鈥淓very single garment is made to measure for the individual wearing it,鈥� said Thornton, 鈥渁nd the band should make the best appearance of any in the state.鈥�

The uniforms, ordered through W.L. Buck company, from a Kansas City manufacturer, are made of highest quality whipcord.  Gold coats trimmed in white carry purple citation cords and a white Sam Browne army type belt.  The trousers are white with purple striping.  West Point hats topped by a 15-inch purple plume, round out the attire.

The three high candidates in the recent Queen race Monday were voted honorary drum majorships and will accompany the band in regulation uniform.

Editor鈥檚 note 鈥� this confirms W. P. Atkinson, journalism head, was father of the band idea at OCU.

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The Campus Friday, October 30, 1936, XIX/8, p. 1 (OCU student newspaper)

Alumni Flock to Campus for Homecoming Today

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Largest Parade
Ever Staged by
O.C.U. Planned

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Fourteen Floats, Many
School Officials, and
Grid Queen Ride

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To the blaring accompaniment of 糖心vlog视频 City鈥檚 outstanding concert bands, O.C.U. students roll through downtown thoroughfares this morning in the largest homecoming parade yet assembled by 糖心vlog视频.

The caravan forms at Twenty-third and Broadway for its trip to Thirteenth where the Firemen鈥檚 band and the new 糖心vlog视频 band will be added.  Joined by a police escort at this point, the paraders continue on Broadway until they turn down Main 

Street where the judges will be stationed.

Jack Holland, owner of the 糖心vlog视频 City Indians, heads the 1936 judging committee.

The march will be led by the parade marshall, University officials, the student council, representatives from the pep council, and the Blue Key and Cardinal Key delegations.

Fourteen floats entered by Scarabian Greek clubs and professional organizations will be the center of interest.  A silver trophy, furnished by W. L. Buck Sporting Goods company is annually awarded to the sponsors of the best float.

Fred Marsh, Blue Key member is marshall of this year鈥檚 parade.

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The Campus Friday, October 30, 1936, XIX/8, p. 3 (OCU student newspaper)

Additional Uniforms
To Arrive Next Week

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Again disappointed by manufacturers, the second order of uniforms for the new O.C.U. band failed to arrive in time for the Homecoming parade and football game.

Six new uniforms in addition to the queen鈥檚 regalia were due by this time but will not be delivered until next week.

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The Campus Friday, November 6, 1936, XIX/9, p. 1 (OCU student newspaper)

Band Plays For
Junior C. of C.

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Playing for the Junior Chamber of Commerce luncheon Tuesday, the new Goldbug band began a program of civic activity that will be carried thoughout the school year.

Respledent in their new uniforms, they led the parade from the court house to the Chamber of Commerce building where Miss Honey, in the person of Miss Helena Fox, band queen, was united in marriage to Mr. Biscuit, Nim Newberry, in a mock ceremony performed by Rev. John R. Abernathy to renew the custom of honey and hot biscuits on the C. of C. luncheon menus.

On November 9, the O.C.U. band will provide music at a breakfast of the Junior Chamber of Commerce which will open the annual Community Chest drive.  Mr. Neilson, band director, will lead the group singing.

The day following, the band plays a prominent part in the laying of the new Civic Center cornerstone, and will lead the parade of 糖心vlog视频 City bands in the day鈥檚 ceremonies.

Editor鈥檚 note 鈥� November 3, 1936 was the date of the OCU band鈥檚 first community activity.

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The Campus Friday, November 13, 1936, XIX/10, p. 1 (OCU student newspaper)

Band Plans Concert
For November 25

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Membership Now Reaches
Fifty-two Pieces

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糖心vlog视频鈥檚 new band will appear in full regalia at a concert to be given Wednesday evening, November 25, in the fine arts auditorium, according to James Neilson, director.

鈥淭his will be our thanks to 糖心vlog视频 City for their kind cooperation in helping provide our beautiful uniforms,鈥� Neilson said.  鈥淲e plan to present a concert including solos and all, which will prove to 糖心vlog视频 that we have the makings of the finest concert band in this part of the country.鈥�

Seven additional uniforms including the queen鈥檚 garb for Miss Helena Fox, band sweetheart, will arrive tomorrow morning.  Final shipment is due November 23, and will include the three uniforms for Miss Virginia Metz, Miss Barbara Hughes, and Miss Peggy Moore, band attendants.

In addition to these, which will be sufficient for a 52-piece uniformed band, two colorful flags have been ordered.  One will be an American flag and the other an O.C.U. bunting.  They will precede the band when marching and be used in the fine arts auditorium on other occasions.  Both are of the finest silk money can buy and will be trimmed with gold fringe and gold cords.

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The Campus Wednesday, November 25, 1936, XIX/11, p. 1 (OCU student newspaper)

A Finished Product in Three Months!

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O.C.U.鈥檚 band, although only three months old, is a finished product as shown in the above picture taken Tuesday morning.

The O.C.U. band members elected last Friday Russell Harris president, Marvin McInnis vice-president, Harry Hahn treasurer and Pat Dunlop secretary, during practice.

Today the O.C.U. band ensemble will play for the Salvation Army over radio station WKY at 5:15 p.m.  The members of the band in the ensemble are:  Earl Hill, Norman Hubbard, Richard Kruger, Duane Manning, Rex Sutton, Duane Swails, Donald Wallace, and James Neilson, director.

70-Piece Unit
Is Directed by
James Neilson

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WKY Broadcasts Feature
糖心vlog视频 Highschool
Contest Numbers

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By MELVIN SHEPHERD

Bands come and bands go, but James Neilson and his O.C.U. band are here to stay.

Although only seven months old, the band now boasts a membership of 73, starting with only 20, following the auditions for scholarships sponsored by the University last semester.

James Neilson, tenth ranking cornetist in the nation and formerly first cornetist with the Chicago Staff Band, was brought here to organize and direct the new O.C.U. band.

The drive for new uniforms was off with a bang when Ancel Earp, city insurance man, donated $1,000 for the cause.  The remainder of the uniform money was raised through three band benefit programs in the Fine Arts auditorium, and as a result the band received sufficient funds to buy 46 uniforms, and a band queen, Hellena Fox, was elected along with three attendants:  Peggy Moore, Betty McGalliard and Barbara Hughes.

17 Radio Broadcasts

The bright gold and white uniforms were first introduced to 糖心vlog视频 City in the Homecoming Parade, October 30^th.

Since then the band has played in 45 concerts and parades before approximately 77,500 people, exclusive of the thousands it has reached through 17 radio broadcasts over 11 different stations.

Through the Friday afternoon broadcasts of rehearsals of regional concert numbers on the stage in the Fine Arts auditorium the band attracts thousands of highschool band boys to their receiving sets to hear these numbers.  Some congregate in their respective highschool auditoriums to study them together.

Over 糖心vlog视频 Network

Each Wednesday and Friday morning the band broadcasts over the 糖心vlog视频 Network through KTOK from 7:30 to 8:00 o鈥檆lock.

鈥淏ecause of our regular broadcasts and concerts it will probably be necessary to have a summer band,鈥� said Neilson Monday.

The University will sponsor a contest similar to the one held last semester for a limited number of scholarships, thereby attracting many musicians from all over the Southwest.

Next fall the band plans to make a concert tour in addition to several trips with the football team, and also plans to increase its membership to eighty.

Editor鈥檚 note 鈥� this confirms that James Neilson鈥檚 reason for coming to OCU was to organize the band.

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The Campus November 25, 1936, p. 1 & 6 (OCU student newspaper)

Neilson Directs Band in
Formal Debut Tonight

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糖心vlog视频鈥檚 new 50-piece band under the direction of James Neilson will present a full evening鈥檚 concert on Wednesday, November 25, starting at 8 o鈥檆lock.  There will be no admission for the program, held at the Fine Arts Auditorium.

This will be the first concert appearance for the group in their new uniforms.  Practices are being held daily to assure the top in music performance.

Soloists for the program will include Charles Thigpen, baritone, who won the Atwater-Kent vocal award for 糖心vlog视频 some years ago; Mrs. James Neilson, a Columbia Broadcasting System artist and now musical director at Capitol Hill high school; and Bruce Feigley, state champion clarinetist.

Two Overtures

Two overtures and a symphonic poem will be included in the band numbers.  They will be 鈥淭he Light Cavalry鈥� and 鈥淪afari鈥� overtures; and 鈥淭he Universal Judgement,鈥� poem.  鈥淭he Footlifter鈥� and 鈥淭he Aristocrat,鈥� marches, will also be a part of the program which will open with two hymns, 鈥淟ascelles鈥� and 鈥淗yfrydol.鈥�

Final shipment of uniforms arrived this week thus assuring a complete band in full regalia for the formal concert.

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The Campus Wednesday, December 11, 1936, XIX/13, p. 1 (OCU student newspaper)

Bandman鈥檚 Life Is Busy Affair; Seven o鈥滳lock
Rehearsals, Free Lunches, Parades Occupy Him

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By Herbert Siegal

The O.C. U. band schedule calls for playing at the basketball game tonight, at the WKY radio station December 18, and later on that evening they are to play for the carol singers on various street corners in town.

No appearances are scheduled at the Chamber of Commerce which is a disappointment to the boys.  Reason for disappointment - they sure serve fine luncheons at the C. of C.

At the Independent Petroleum Association parade, no less than ten bands came to the city with the anticipation of leading the parade.  Final outcome 鈥� O.C.U. marched right behind those minions of the law who gallantly steered their mechanical horses on.

According to the weatherman, rain was supposed to fall during the parade.  Reason for it not raining 鈥� Prof. Howard Thornton purchased rain capes for each member of the band just before the parade.  Incidentally, the band wore the capes 鈥� that is, all except Tom Philpott who kept on losing his.

Tom鈥檚 losing act reminds us of the time the cymbol [sic] player lost one of his cymbols [sic] in from of Jenkins; the crash coming right on the beat.

The band is supposed to meet every morning at seven.  Actually, rehearsal begins at eight minutes after seven and the drums start getting their beats in at fourteen minutes past seven.  Harry Hahn plays the bass drum with a book in one hand, a beater in the other hand, one eye on his book, the other on the music, meanwhile his mouth moves all the time.

Keith Kelly and Joe Harris should plan for a duet.  Kelly鈥檚 instrument, by the way, is no larger than the valve in the bass Harris pushes down.  Kelly came to band one morning, leisurely took his seat after coming in twenty minutes late.  His instrument was no where in sight.  Pat Dunlop eyed Kelly for a minute as if to ask where Kelly鈥檚 picallo [sic] was.  But Kelly, at a snails pace, shed his coat 鈥� and from out of his vest pocket he produced his miniature flute.

Stanley Drennan and Frank Evans came to practice Tuesday.  Welcome strangers.  Jim Andy Wilson received a large ovation when he made his appearance at band practice fifteen minutes to eight.  Jim鈥檚 policy must be, 鈥淒on鈥檛 do as I do, do as I say.鈥�  Jim phoned the boys the night before telling them to be sure to come at seven.

Brock Dale delights in telling one about the cymbol [sic] player who counted out ninety-six measures, crashed his symbols [sic] and disgustingly muttered, 鈥淕osh darnit, missed it again.鈥�

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The Campus April 16, 1937, p. 1 & 6 (OCU student newspaper)

SCARABIA 
Gets a Band

SCARABIA gets a band!  O. C. U.鈥檚 long hope for a first-class band came true last September.  James Neilson, director, set out last summer with a limited number of scholarships and a very few instruments, but with the enthusiastic backing of Prof. W. P. 鈥淏ill鈥� Atkinson, journalism department head and 鈥渄addy鈥� of the organization.  Charter membership was 35, by the end of the first semester it was 50, and now, as we go to press, there are 75.

Uniforms were an early problem, but Atkinson went to work, searching for a godfather.  He found his man in Ancel Earp, philanthropist and heard of a prominent city insurance agency.  Earp donated $1,000 toward uniforms, and it bought just as much morale.  Atkinson and Howard Thornton, journalism instructor, directed three band benefit programs which added $700.  Fifty-two uniforms were purchased.

A Band Queen race was held in connection with the programs and at the close of the third program it was announced that Hellena Fox, freshman student and candidate of Phi Delta sorority, was elected.  She named three girls to be provided with uniforms and serve as attendants, Peggy Moore, Alpha Omega; Virginia Metz, Kappa Tau Delta; and Barbara Hughes, Beta Alpha Phi.  When Miss Metz withdrew from school at the end of the first semester, Betty McGalliard, Kappa Tau Delta, was named in her place.

Russell Harris was elected first president of the band, but was succeeded during the second semester by Norman Hubbard, following Harris鈥檚 withdrawal from school.  Other officers are Marvin Mclnnis, vice-president; Pat Dunlop, drum major and secretary; Harry Hahn, treasurer; and Howard Thornton, business manager.

Director Neilson is a man of much experience.  He was graduated from the Chicago Musical College after having attended Northwestern University for four years.  He has played with the Chicago Staff Band and the Chicago Civic Orchestra.

In order to assure Director Neilson all necessary assistance, Frank Evans, a Phillips University graduate, was named assistant band director.  Evans studied with Temple Bush in Chicago and played with the Glendale, California, symphony orchestra before coming to O. C. U.

Ambition and enthusiasm were not lacking in the new band as shown by their promptness at rehearsals, which were held at seven o鈥檆lock every morning during the first semester.  This schedule was reduced to four mornings weekly during the second semester.  With the opening of the second semester the membership of the band reached a new high of 73.

Public appearances were numerous during the first semester with the band playing 33 programs before approximately 52,800 people.  During the second semester it is expected this record will be beaten.

In addition to public appearances, many radio broadcasts were added during the second semester.  These broadcasts will total approximately 35 with the close of the school year.  Twelve of these programs were broadcast by WKY as actual rehearsals of state contest numbers for the benefit of more than 12,000 high school band members in 糖心vlog视频.

During April and May regular Wednesday and Friday morning broadcasts were carried every week over KTOK and the 糖心vlog视频 Network of eight stations. Several programs also were broadcast over station KOMA.

Band activities will be carried on into the summer with frequent radio broadcasts and public concerts.

With the opening of school next September scholarship contests will be held.  A college band excelled by none in the southwest should result by next fall.

O.C.U. students first saw their band in glittering tassel when it accompanied the Blue Key 鈥淕oodwill鈥� special to the Goldbug-Shocker football game at Wichita, Kansas, October 24.  A cruel break lost a well-played game to the Kansans, 13-7, but there was a happy moment at the half when the O. C. U. bandmen far outshone the 80-piece R. O. T. C. unit of Wichita U.  鈥淗ow do you do it,鈥� asked admiring Marvin Tarkman, the Shocker drum major after he had witnessed the twirling of Classen alumnus and recent state champion, Pat Dunlop, Scarabian drum major.

In a single day the Goldbug band traveled 380 miles and played before 14,000 people with street parades in Guthrie, Perry, Ponca City, and downtown Wichita.

Six days after the Kansas trip, the band led the annual O. C. U. Homecoming parade swinging through metropolitan 糖心vlog视频 City on Broadway from Twelfth to Main street, and then down the business district to Western.

鈥淚f you like our uniforms, thank Ancel Earp,鈥� shouted a huge banner carried by two bandmen, as they passed 5,000 spectators.

In November Neilson and his musician occupied the honor position in two history making occasions for 糖心vlog视频 City.  On the tenth they furnished music for the Civic Center dedication ceremony and on the thirtieth the band, now totaling 45 pieces, took part in its largest parade, witnessed by 10,000 visitors at the city鈥檚 Oil Jubilee celebration.

Besides their 7 a.m. rehearsals, the band was often turning out again in the evening to help put the football or basketball team over the top in a home tilt.  Five grid games and nine court encounters were enlivened by these martial strains.

Local radio stations were not long in availing themselves of this band and its popular programs, for on February 16 the Goldbugs went on WKY for the first time in a thirty-minute broadcast.  Up to May 12, the band broadcast 25 programs over KOMA, WKY, and KTOK for an average of 30 minutes each.

Further statistics show that the band has staged 58 concerts and 16 parades, which with radio programs, bring its total appearances to 99 since organization in September, an average of more than two each week.

General promotion man for the band is versatile Howard Thornton, public relations director, who has charge of all band equipment, program bookings and broadcasting schedules.  Thornton also writes all continuity which goes over the air concerning the university during these weekly programs.  Without the aid of statistics other than those stored in his mind, Thornton can recall the date and number of persons attending almost every appearance of the band.

Another marvel to everyone outside the organization itself, is the success of Director James Neilson in getting his 75 musicians to early morning rehearsals.  These players come from distances as great as five miles over the city, but they are on hand promptly each morning--in zero weather or balmy spring--ready to blare away when Neilson lifts his baton at 7 a.m.

Many of the bandmen themselves are not certain what makes them pull away from inviting covers and hurry to rehearsals in the pre-dawn hush.  But Norman 鈥淪wede鈥� Hubbard, band president, has his explanation, which is very nearly the right one:

鈥淣eilson鈥檚 parting remark when he encounters his bandmen anywhere during the day is,  鈥楽ee you at band in the morning,鈥� just as if he really expected you to be there.  And with such psychology as that, you just can鈥檛 let him down.  Now he鈥檚 got the whole band saying it to each other, and there is a sort of social disapproval of the member who comes in late.鈥�

A fine idea, 鈥淪wede,鈥� and there are other campus organizations who could profit by his example.

Since its organization, the band has served the 糖心vlog视频 City Chamber of Commerce as, for all practical purposes, an official 糖心vlog视频 City band.  Next year, C. of C. officials plan to take the Scarabians on all trade trips.--Paul Bennett.

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The Scarab 1938, pp. 68-69 (yearbook)

BAND AND ORCHESTRA

By Howard Thornton, Band Business Manager

OKLAHOMA City University鈥檚 two major instrumental groups, the band and symphony orchestra, both under thc very capable direction of James Neilson, spread O. C. U.鈥檚 name far and wide during the past year and at the same time provided an excellent musical education for the lucky young people who could play in one or both of them.

The band, rounding out its second successful year of existence, made some 60 public appearances before more than 80,000 people, not including the unseen audiences on their 55 radio broadcasts.

The symphony orchestra, in its first year under Neilson, was organized during the second semester of 1936-37 under the direction of Dean Clarence Burg.  This year it made some 20 public appearances before more than 10,000 people.

Membership in the two organizations was constant during the year with the band having 75 players and the orchestra 60.  These sizes are found to be ideal by Director Neilson, who intends to keep them that way.

Football started the band鈥檚 public appearances for the year as the musicians aided in electing their queen through a football season ticket sales campaign.

The band paraded through the downtown district on three successive days previous to the Centenary Football game and when the opening game of the season reached its halfway point, Miss Phyllis Rogers, the 88-pound Phi Delta candidate, was revealed the victor as she burst from the center of a huge drum during the coronation ceremonies on the field.

Football activities continued to occupy the band as it played for all four home games, led parades for the Homecoming game with Missouri Mines, and paraded for the Arkansas Tech game.  Its grid season was climaxed with the special train excursion to Stillwater for the A. & M. game.  A 30-minute parade stop was made in Guthrie.

The A. & M. band was on hand to meet the Goldbug musicians at the station in Stillwater and to grant the men of Jimmy Neilson the honor of leading the Aggies鈥� Homecoming Parade.

More serious appearances during the first semester included a concert at the First Baptist Church in 糖心vlog视频 City, and benefit concerts at Britton and Harding for bands of those schools.  The O. C. U. band was also named official musical accompanist for the annual Boy Scout circus and played for both performances which were held during the Thanksgiving holidays.

The band was named the official musical group for the two major religious activities of the 糖心vlog视频 City Chamber of Commerce as it played for the First Annual Municipal Christmas Pageant in the Municipal Auditorium as well as for the Easter Pageant in the Lincoln Park Amphitheater.  The religious activities of the band also included a concert at Wesley Methodist Church in 糖心vlog视频 City.

Three formal dress concerts were presented by the band in the University auditorium as well as its trip to Guthrie to play for guest night at the consistory in the Masonic Temple.  Other public appearances included eight assembly programs as well as aiding the O. C. U. Press Club in the presentation of their Annual Gridiron and Scarab Stunt Nite.

Radio activity for the band opened on September 8 and continued throughout the year.  Forty-two morning programs were broadcast over station KTOK and the 糖心vlog视频 Network of eight stations.  Thirteen afternoon rehearsal broadcasts of state band contest numbers were presented over station KOMA.  Actual broadcast time totaled 20 3/4 hours with 11 hours of this over the 糖心vlog视频 Network.

The symphony orchestra did not begin its activities until December 1, when it presented the first formal concert of the year.  Three major out-of-town trips were made by the orchestra.  The group traveled to Wewoka, Drumright, and Holdenville for concerts.  Featured local appearances included benefit concerts at Wesley Church and Harding Junior High, as well as a featured position on the 糖心vlog视频 Educational Convention general session program in the new 糖心vlog视频 City Municipal Auditorium.

The orchestra also played all the accompaniments for the Gilbert and Sullivan Opera, 鈥淧irates of Penzance,鈥� presented by the O. C. U. Fine Arts Department.  Soloists with the orchestra during the year included Dean Clarence Burg, Miss Bernice Bird, Miss Glennes Jones, and Albert Kirkpatrick.

The major promotion by the band and symphony orchestra during the year was the presentation of the First Annual Southwestern Band Festival, held in 糖心vlog视频 City on February 25, 26, and 27, 1938.  The festival was officially sponsored by the 糖心vlog视频 City Junior Chamber of Commerce under the chairmanship of Jim Warram, director of athletics for the 糖心vlog视频 City public schools.   However, the idea originated with James Neilson who asked their aid in presenting the event.

Ten of the leading high school bands of the state were invited to participate.

Bands attending included Classen, Central, and Capitol Hill of 糖心vlog视频 City, Drumright, Fairfax, Bowlegs, Wewoka, Ponca City, Stillwater, and Duncan.  Guest conductors and judges included Wi1liam D. Revelli, University of Michigan; Everett McCracken, Baylor University; and Harold Bachman, Chicago University.  All contests and rehearsals were held at O. C. U.   The festival was climaxed by a 1000-piece massed concert in the 糖心vlog视频 City Municipal Auditorium on Sunday afternoon.  Solo chairs in the massed band were mostly occupied by members of the O. C. U. Band.

Much honor and nation-wide publicity were brought to the band and to Mr. Neilson through the selection of Billy Snyder, solo cornetist of the O. C. U. Band and student of Mr. Neilson, as the first of a group of 13 guest soloists to receive free trips to Cincinnati, Ohio, to be guests with Frank Simon and His Armco Band in a series of programs over the Blue Network of the National Broadcasting Company.

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The Scarab 1939, p. 68 (yearbook)

O.C.U. BAND

鈥淨UIET, please, we go on the air in two minutes.鈥�  The members of the O.C.U. band settled in their chairs with their instruments ready, waiting for the signal from the announcer to begin the thirty-minute broadcast over radio station WKY.  The signal is given, and the band begins its first number, 鈥淒eep Purple.鈥�

鈥樷�楾his is what has happened every Friday night at 8:30 in the Fine Arts auditorium.  One of the finest bands in the Southwest has sent its music out into the ether, to please music lovers all over the country.  Under the able and capable direction of James (Jimmie to the band boys) Neilson, the band has soared from great heights of success to the greatest.  On one special occasion there was a thirty-minute broadcast over NBC blue network.  This was the highlight of the season.  This brought honor and praise to Scarabialand.  This meant we were somebody.

Not only can they play, but when they march out onto the football field, many hearts beat faster at the sight of the fellows in uniform led by the baton-twirling, high-prancing drum-major  Mike Massad, (including mine).  When the Goldbug eleven is having a terrific time making a touchdown, the O.C.U. band will come through with 鈥淗old That Tiger鈥� in its loudest and noisiest way.  And then the eleven are over the line for a touchdown.

On Wednesday nights at 7:30 there is a band rehearsal in the Fine Arts auditorium.  These are more fun to hear and watch than any broadcast can ever be.  There was a time when Jimmie asked a fellow to hit high C on his cornet.  Once he tried, twice he tried, and he kept trying until he had had about eleven trys, and he still couldn鈥檛 do it.  Mr. James Neilson blew his top.  He raved, he ranted, he pawed the ground.  And then, after mopping his brow, he calmly asked the fellow if he would please hit high C on his cornet.  And very calmly the fellow did.  There was never a dull moment at band practice.  Sometimes one bar of music was played twenty times and it still wouldn鈥檛 be right.  So they would play it the twenty-first time and then go on.  And there was always the interruption of late arrivals.  Most Wednesday night rehearsals were held until 10 o鈥檆lock, and then Jimmie would tell everyone to go home.

Some of the most talented musicians in the city are playing in O.C.U.鈥檚 band.  There is Betty Sullivan, who has won high honors in the state with her bassoon playing.  Then there is Bill Hollingsworth who can roll the drums among the best.  Carroll Dunn can win the highest honors at any music festival with his cornet playing.  And James Neilson, is rated among the best band directors in the nation.

--Eunice Mosby.

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The Scarab 1940 (yearbook)

INSTRUMENTAL

Mr. James Neilson, director of the 糖心vlog视频 Symphonic Band and Symphony Orchestra, is one of the outstanding musicians in the Southwest.  Mr. Neilson joined the faculty of O.C.U. in 1936.  Since that time, the band and orchestra have steadily progressed until they rank with the best college organizations.

Mr. Neilson is a member of the National Board of Adjudicators of the American Band-Masters Association and is in great demand as conductor and judge.  He is nationally known as a cornetist and makes many personal appearances.

The 糖心vlog视频 Symphony Orchestra has been termed the leading college orchestra in the nation.  This organization not only plays well as an orchestra, but has the distinction of being a very fine accompanying orchestra.  Many outstanding musicians appear as soloists with the orchestra.  Part of the success of the college opera each year is due to the excellent work of the orchestra.  The orchestra is also under the direction of Mr. Neilson and makes numerous appearances in the city and state.

The 糖心vlog视频 Symphonic Band is one of the most outstanding musical organizations throughout the nation.  Through its varied activities, the band has gained an enviable place of recognition among college bands.

Under the capable direction of Mr. Neilson, the band appears in concert once each month in the O.C.U. auditorium and makes numerous appearances throughout the city for conventions, and civic organizations.  These appearances are looked forward to as musical highlights in the cultural life of the city.  The band also gives a broadcast over station WKY each Saturday morning.  This broadcast is known as a 鈥淩ehearsal Broadcast鈥� and is eagerly awaited by musicians throughout the South.

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The Scarab 1941 (yearbook)

Symphonic Band

The Symphonic Band of O. C. U. under the direction of Professor James Neilson, is largely responsible for the fine publicity the school has received.  During the year the Band has been in constant demand to appear for outstanding programs and meetings in the city.  Its members served as contest officials and helped in presenting the 13th Annual District Musical Festival.  Many famous musicians have conducted the band during the past year and all are of the opinion that it is one of the finest present-day University bands.  The Band plays at all of the home football and basketball games and renders in this respect fine service.  It also plays five concert programs during the year.

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The Scarab 1942, p. 105 (yearbook)

O.C.U. Band

The University band, under the direction of James Neilson, is composed of two groups, the marching band and the symphonic band.  It is through these organizations that the school has received excellent publicity during the year.  The marching band has played at the football and basketball games, has paraded, and has taken part in various other activities such as the Inauguration of President Smith.

The symphonic band has done several radio broadcasts and has played concerts in the various churches and at the meetings of the Chamber of Commerce and other civic clubs.

Eight school concerts were given throughout the year; out-of-town concerts were played at Shawnee and Guthrie.

This year the band members acted as judges鈥� assistants and helped in presenting the Fourteenth Annual District Music Festival.

--Carolyn Wilhoyte.

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The Scarab 1943, p. 64 (yearbook)

鈥淔aculty on Parade鈥�

By Charles Sullivan

10-25-46         

James Neilson

Often spoken of as a 鈥渂uilder of fine arts,鈥� is James Nelson, director of the A Cappella Choir, Symphony Orchestra, Band, and professor of instrumental music here on the campus.

Seven years after his birth in Motherwell, Scotland, the Neilson family came to America, establishing their home in Chicago.  His talent on cornet earned him a position as soloist in the Chicago Staff Band at age 13.  Neilson has studied under Edwin Llewellyn in Chicago, and Gracoma Spadoni in New York.  He served as soloist, band director, and music arranger for Paul Rader, appearing on CBS numerous times.

A member of the National Board of Adjudications, he has judged many band and orchestra contests, and has conducted mass bands of 5,000 pieces.  He has written musical scores for Christmas and Easter pageants, oratorios for orchestra and choir, concertos and symphonies.  He has taken part in many services for the benefit of O.C.U., and has promoted outside contacts through his work with the Chamber of Commerce.

THE SYMPHONIC BAND

Time marches on!  (I wish the band did more of it!)  No doubt you鈥檝e been told a thousand times, and everyone must know it by now, but here we go again.  鈥淭here鈥檚 a war on!鈥�  And how it has changed the O. C. U. Band this year!   Mr. Neilson is tearing his hair as the boys begin thinning out (and incidentally his hair, too).  Every week or so we say goodbye to some more of the boys who are exchanging their white and gold uniforms and their horns for khaki or blue uniforms and guns.

But we鈥檝e had a good year in spite of handicaps and rationing.  They aren鈥檛 rationing music yet!  Of course there were no football games where we could strut our stuff, but there were civilian defense rallies and Will Rogers Field where a little band music was appreciated.  And people still come to hear our regular concerts, even if they have to ride the Blackwelder bus (Heaven forbid!!).

So you see those Tuesday and Thursday rehearsals weren鈥檛 wasted after all.  Besides, 鈥渨e鈥檙e working our way through college鈥� --scholarships, you know!

Oh, and we must tell you about the Line Party of April 28, when we went to the Criterion and ate at Elmo鈥檚--all free for nothing.

The girls are making a much better showing in the band this year, and people who used to scoff at girls in bands are changing their tune.  The percentage is about 50-50, in our favor.  And the trumpet trio is 100% feminine this year, which doesn鈥檛 alter the fact that they swing a mean valve.

As guest soloists at our concerts we have had Flo Hobin--soprano; and Hazel Wingate and Jimmy Harbert--cornetists.

Well, war or no war, there鈥檒l always be an O. C. U. band, and as long as Mr. Neilson is directing it, there鈥檒l be none better anywhere!

--Lois Hall.

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The Keshena 1947, p. 93 (yearbook)

BAND

Since 1936 the O. C. U. Band, under the direction of Prof. James Neilson, has had a prominent part in school and civic affairs.  Concerts, parades, broadcasts and other activities serve to make it a busy organization.

Annual clinics have been held at the University for the high school bands of this area.  In addition, rehearsals of contest numbers have been broadcast for the benefit of high school musicians and conductors throughout the state.  Mr. Neilson is in constant demand as a director of clinics and is assisted at these by members of the band.  Such activities definitely serve to raise the standard of school music.

The band, which now has 57 members, is a progressive organization and is always ready to present the new in music as well as the traditional.

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The Keshena 1948, p. 147 (yearbook)

鈥淗ave you met James Neilson? 鈥� His Business Is Music: His Pleasure Is Sharing It鈥�

By Marguerite Macklin

5-6-49

鈥淲ith music an educational necessity it is imperative that those teachers who are training young musicians be more sincere and more competent than ever before.  Teachers must have the skill to adequately present the technical side but far and beyond that they must instill a love of beautiful music that will carry over into life after school days are over.鈥�

These are the views of James Neilson, affectionately known to many of his friends as Jim, who, for the past fifteen years has been director of musical organizations at 糖心vlog视频.  If the number of students with whom he has worked who are now successful teachers in their own communities is anything to judge by, he has succeeded admirably in getting his ideas across. 

Salvation Army Gave Instruction

Born in Chicago of parents whose great interest in life is the Salvation Army, Neilson started playing the cornet when he was eight years old.  The Salvation Army provided instruction for him with William Broughton who, though now retired, was for many years the coordinator of all Salvation Army music on the west coast.  Neilson recalls vividly that Broughton was the knuckle rapping type of teacher and one learned one鈥檚 lesson in self defense.  He later became He later became a member of the Crane Technical high school band, the first of its kind to be formed in Chicago.

In 1924 he was made responsible for all music for the Chicago Gospel Tabernacle, of which Paul Rader was evangelist.  The responsibility included the directorship of instrumental music for the Rader Broadcasting Company and a daily program for the Columbia Broadcasting system.  It was Neilson鈥檚 job to arrange and (sic) all programs for band, orchestra, small ensembles, and choral鈥� programs were varied in type and contained both sacred and symphonic music.

Band

Crowning achievement of the OCU Band this year was the purchase of new uniforms----navy blue with red and white trimming.  The total cost was $3,600.

Under Prof. James Neilson鈥檚 direction, the Band was host to some 20 糖心vlog视频 high school bands on annual Band Day and 100 state high school band directors at the Second Annual Band Conductor鈥檚 Clinic.  The Band functioned at all football games and presented four formal programs and two outdoor concerts.

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The Keshena 1949, p. 152 (yearbook)

University Concert Band

Three of the most active organizations on OCU campus are the band, orchestra and choir.

Under the direction of Prof. James Neilson, these groups are nationally famous.

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The Keshena 1950, p. 178 (yearbook)

Two guest conductors and seven high school bands--one from far away San Antonio, Texas, participated in OCU鈥檚 fifth annual Band Clinic February 2-3 of this year.

Returning for the fifth year was Dr. William D. Revelli, conductor of the University of Michigan band.  Dr. Revelli is well known throughout the country for his work in promoting and conducting such band festivals.

Sharing honors with Dr. Revelli was Mr. H. Bernard Fitzgerald, guest conductor from the University of Texas.

Students and faculty were able to see the massed band in action twice during the two-day clinic, once at assembly Friday morning and again at the Massed Band Concert, held the evening of February 3 in the gymnasium.

Highlight of the concert was the presentation of Dean Clarence Burg, head of the OCU School of Music, as piano soloist in Grieg鈥檚 鈥淐oncerto in A Minor.鈥�  The concerto was a far cry from Dean Burg鈥檚 own rendition of 鈥淎rkansas Traveler!鈥�

Dean Burg came to OCU in 1928 upon relinquishing his position at the Clarence Burg School of Music and Allied Arts, Fort Smith, Arkansas, which he founded.

Bands participating in the two-day festival were Central, Capitol Hill and Classen high schools from 糖心vlog视频 City; Edmond; Elk City; El Reno, and the Alamo Heights High School from San Antonio, Texas, as well as OCU鈥檚 own band.

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The Keshena 1951, p. 135 (yearbook)

Band

The OCU band had an active and highly successful season,which surprised exactly no one.  Under the able direction of Professor James Neilson, the Band has long been rated as a national, top-notch, class-A organization, with concert work as it鈥檚 forte.  Featuring the flawless clarinette technique of Dianne Vandergriff, and a trumpet quartet whose performance is as polished as their instruments, the band made outstanding appearances at concert tours, concert, parades, basketball games, and pep assemblies.  Don Kramer, Frank Ristau, Walter Baker, and Joel Whitten are the trumpet soloists whose dependability warmed the cockles of Neilson鈥檚 heart.  Highlights of the season were a concert at the First Methodlst Church in Tulsa, and participation in the annual Christmas Festival at the 糖心vlog视频 City Municipal Auditorium.  The OCU Band has one of the largest instrumental music libraries in the nation.

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The Keshena 1954 (yearbook)

OCU鈥檚 Music Chief Honored

2-18-55

James Neilson, head of musical organizations at 糖心vlog视频, has been elected to the American Band Masters鈥� association, exclusive group of top-flight band leaders.  Neilson was notified of his appointment by telegram Friday morning.  His selection came at the group鈥檚 annual convention in Elkhart, Ind.

There are about 150- members of the association in the United States.

At OCU since 1936

Membership comes by election considering the member鈥檚 ability, contribution to music and only after he is well established as a top-flight leader in the field.  Prof. Neilson has been at OCU since 1936.  During his tenure the three groups he leads have almost tripled in size.  He is also director of music for the 糖心vlog视频 City Symphony Orchestra.

He鈥檚 Also a Composer

Prof. Neilson is co-author of a music workbook series, 鈥淭he Music Road鈥�, and contributed regularly to music publications, such as Etude and The Instrumentalist.

The professor has composed and arranged several works.  He belongs to Phi Mu Alpha, honorary music fraternity, is a member of the Music Educators National Association, the Music Teachers National Association, College Band Directors National association, and the 糖心vlog视频 Music Educators Association.

Music Education Varied

Neilson received his formal education at Northwestern University, The Chicago Musical College, and the Julliard School of Musical Art.  He was the first cornetist with the Chicago Staff Band of the Salvation Army and later played first trumpet with the 糖心vlog视频 Symphony Orchestra. 

Band, Choir and Orchestra

Nationally recognized are the musical groups at OCU.  The Choir has performed with the 糖心vlog视频 City Symphony on national broadcasts and has recorded programs for NBC.

All three groups travel throughout the state and give free concerts.  Always a huge success, the band, choir and orchestra are under the superb direction of Professor James Neilson.

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The Keshena 1955 (yearbook)

Prof. Neilson In Music Film

1-11-57

Sigurd Rascher, America鈥檚 foremost saxophonist, has chosen the 糖心vlog视频 symphonic band to accompany him in the filming of a 15-minute educational picture to be filmed Monday, January 14, at 10 P.M. in the Fine Arts Auditorium.  The film, which will be in color and with sound, is being engineered by a group from the University of 糖心vlog视频.

The Buescher Institute, Elkhart Indiana, is financing the picture which is to be shown as a visual aid to students of music throughout the country.  Any profit that may be made will be ploughed back into a fund to finance future such films.  The band will accompany Rascher as he plays 鈥淚ntroduction and Samba鈥�, by Maurice C. Fowler, an extremely difficult piece written for sax and band.  Rascher will then proceed to discuss the technique that has made him famous and he will use the University band through the picture to illustrate the points.

Rascher鈥檚 thirteen year old daughter Karen, a master of the sax in her own right, will come to OCU with her father to show the advantages of beginning a musical instrument at an early age.  The OCU band, through the efforts of James Neilson, is recognized as one of the leading college bands in the nation, but according to Rascher, conductor Neilson is the main drawing card responsible for OCU being chosen to host this milestone in visual education.

Band

糖心vlog视频鈥檚 band and orchestra has spent an eventful year playing concerts here and around the state.  Individual members of the group under the direction of James Neilson have also gathered in many honors. Besides appearances on university programs, the band played at the home basketball games.

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The Keshena 1957 (yearbook)

OCU Music Prof Wins National Post

6-5-57

Prof. James Neilson, director of 糖心vlog视频鈥檚 musical organizations, has been elected Vice President of the College Band Director鈥檚 Association at a national meeting held in Chicago.  Neilson will be co-officer to Frederick Fennell, Eastman School of Music, who was elected president of the association and will additionally retain his position as chairman of the committee production and techniques of CDBNA.

Prof. Neilson joined the OCU staff in 1936 and under his direction, the musical organizations of the University have grown extensively.  In addition to his duties at OCU, Neilson is also director of music for the OKC Chamber of Commerce. 

Educated at the Chicago Music Institute and Julliard, he has studied privately under William Broughton, Edward Llewellyn, Clarence Burg, Harry Marryott, Hadley Outland, and Fritz Mahler.  For years, before other duties interrupted this service, he was the first trumpet of the 糖心vlog视频 City Symphony orchestra.

He has contributed many articles to professional publications and is the co-author with Ruth Shafer of the preparatory department of the Julliard School of Music, of a music workbook series, 鈥渢he Music Road.鈥�

SYMPHONIC BAND

Appearing regularly throughout the year the OCU Symphonic Band, under the conduction of James Neilson is a tribute to the School of Music.  Besides their own special programs, the band entertains at May Day Sing and other school functions.

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The Keshena 1958, p. 76 (yearbook)

University Band

This year the OCU Band presented two concerts featuring numbers from the School of Music as they once again engaged in a full season of varied musical activities on the campus.

Under the direction of James Neilson, the band played at all basketball games in Municipal Auditorium, and presented a special Mothers Day Concert, which they hope to turn into an annual event.

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The Keshena 1959, pp. 196-7 (yearbook)

UNIVERSITY BAND

Preparation for Concerts Keeps Seventy-Two Member Organization Occupied During Year

PREPARING FOR THREE or four public concerts a year keeps the members of the 糖心vlog视频 symphonic band busy practicing throughout the year.  Made up primarily of music majors, the seventy-two member organization is under the direction of Professor James Neilson.  There is a promise of a veteran band returning next year, as only four of the musicians were lost by graduation.

In addition to the concerts, the group sponsored and participated in a band clinic during February.  Guest conductor was Freddie Fennell of the Eastman school of music.  The band also recorded several numbers which were released for sale to the public.

Perhaps the most spirited segment of the band is the pep band, which played for all basketball games.  For the first time in history, the school song, 鈥樷�楬ail Alma Mater鈥� was arranged for the pep band.  Dave Ward, music senior, did the arranging.

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The Keshena 1960, pp. 196-7 (yearbook)

BAND AND CHOIR

Top Musicians Perform Regularly In Auditorium

With a School of Music noted for its contributions to the field of music, the University presents many recitals and performances by professional caliber musicians for students and 糖心vlog视频 City.  The Symphonic Band under the direction of Prof. James Neilson has recorded stereo discs for national distribution, in fact, was selected to record some of the earliest stereo records by symphonic band groups.  Prof. Neilson also directed the group of professional musicians in Chicago in one of the first professional symphonic band stereo recordings.

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The Keshena 1961, p. 104 (yearbook)

Musical Honors Pair

            Opening night performance, September 28, of OCU鈥檚 first fall production, 鈥渢he Red Mill,鈥� will be dedicated to Prof. And Mrs. Neilson.

            鈥淭he Red Mill鈥� marks the 25th anniversary musical for the city university as well as the Neilson鈥檚 25^th year with the school. 

            While the two are not quite sure whether this season鈥檚 effort is their 25^th, they do know 25 years ago they coproduced their first production- Gilbert and Sullivan鈥檚 鈥淭he Pirates of Penzance鈥�.

            鈥淭he Red Mill鈥� will be staged in OCU鈥檚 Fine Arts Auditorium September 28, 29, and October 2. with a cast of nearly 50 there are six leading roles and a chorus of 20.

            The orchestra will be under the baton of Prof. Neilson.

            The male leads include Bob Aubrey and Bob Burris. Tamara Long, Miss 糖心vlog视频 City of 1961, has the dancing role. 

            Sing leads will be handled by Bob Cortright, tenor; and Janice Baxter, soprano; Kay Creed, former Miss 糖心vlog视频, mezzo soprano, and Don Williams, baritone. Kay walker, Miss Village runner-up plays the notorious  Mme. LaFleur. Gene Lorey and Geen Allen have the two lead character parts.

            All seats are reserved. 

Neilson Resigns at OCU

Dr. James Neilson, veteran band and choral director at 糖心vlog视频 announced his resignation Saturday to direct full time to guest conducting and other specialty work.

He said he plans to accept a position as music consultant with a national organization, but declined to identify it.

 In announcing the resignation, Neilson declared 鈥淚 regret that, after being connected with 糖心vlog视频 since 1936, I must resign as professor of instrumental music education and as conductor of the band, choir and orchestra.

                                    He鈥檚 in Demand

鈥淭he demand on a national scale for my services as guest conductor, adjudicator, and clinician has increased to the point where I am unable to continue my work at the University and accept these off-campus engagements.鈥�

Expressing reluctance at leaving the OCU School of Music, Neilson said, however, 鈥淚 feel that the time has come for me to expand on a larger scale my opportunities for leadership.鈥�

                                    No Successor

Dr. Neilson is past president of the National College Band Directors Assn., director of the 糖心vlog视频 City Chamber of Commerce, coauthor of the music work book series, 鈥淭he Music Road,鈥� and a contributor to leading professional publications.  

For two years he played first trumpet with the 糖心vlog视频 City Symphony Orchestra.

糖心vlog视频 officials said other members of the music department will fill in for Neilson during the remainder of the semester.  A successor will not be named until later.

Neilson Resigns After 25 Years

Dr. James Neilson announced his resignation Saturday to accept a position as a music consultant with a national organization.  Dr. Neilson conducted the University Choir and band and was a professor of instrumental music education.

The production of 鈥淭he Red Mill,鈥� by Victor Hugo, last fall marked the twenty-fifth year that Dr. Neilson had been affiliated with the University.

The program of the School of Music is going ahead as scheduled, according to Dr. Jack Wilkes, University president.

Gene Lorey, senior music student, will direct the University Singers and the Choir until the position vacated by Dr. Neilson has been filled.  

Joe Spurlock, OCU graduate and director of John Marshall high school band, will conduct the University band.  Dr. Neilson鈥檚 conducting and ear training classes have been taken over by faculty members Don Northrip, Reginal Fink and Robert Laughlin.  

Mrs. Vera Neilson, Opera Workshop director and voice teacher, will continue to teach at the University.

BAND

Group Rates High

A burst of trumpets announces the 糖心vlog视频 Symphonic Band under the direction of Dr. James Neilson.  Throughout the year the band plays a wide range of selections from the impressive chords of Tschaikovsky to the intricate note structure of modern composers.

Band members participate in concerts, clinics and contests, increasing their ability and their store of experience while giving their audiences the finest in music.  Most of the members plan to go into the field of professional musicianship, but participation in the group is not limited to music majors.  Any qualified student may become a band member.

One of the yearly activities of the organization, which is approximately 75 members strong, is the Valentine鈥檚 Day concert at Bethany Nazarene College.

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The Keshena 1963 (yearbook)