Clemson University students to perform in London during Olympics
Published: July 27, 2012
CLEMSON, S.C. – Sixty Clemson University musicians will visit London July 29 to Aug. 4 to perform at various venues around the city during the Summer Olympic Games.
Clemson's Symphonic Band and Jazz Ensemble are going to perform at Olympic venues to showcase their talents and American music to people from all over the world. (Click here to view a video about the upcoming trip.)
Through planning, hard work and fundraiser support, the students were able to formally accept the invitation. As London plans to celebrate this global event by facilitating entertainment programs at Olympic Live Sites across its 33 boroughs, the tour allows Clemson students to be featured performers on the entertainment program being staged for millions of visitors and locals who will be in London during the games.
"This is a unique opportunity for our band students not only to travel abroad and learn about new cultures, but to bring the Clemson spirit to people from all over the globe," said Mark Spede, Clemson's director of bands.
Not only will the musicians perform, but they also will learn about British culture and history on days set aside for sightseeing; they took a special course prior to departure taught by Clemson faculty. The group will visit places such as London's West End, Buckingham Palace, Big Ben, Westminster Abbey, Piccadilly Circus, and will have the opportunity to attend Olympic events.
Ranked No. 25 among national public universities, Clemson University is a major, land-grant, science- and engineering-oriented research university that maintains a strong commitment to teaching and student success. Clemson is an inclusive, student-centered community characterized by high academic standards, a culture of collaboration, school spirit, and a competitive drive to excel.
Schedule of performances:
Monday, July 30: Peninsula Festival in Greenwich. 4 p.m., Jazz Ensemble; 6 p.m., Symphonic Band
Tuesday, July 31: Exhibition Road, London. 8 p.m., Jazz Ensemble
Thursday, Aug. 2: Weymouth Bayside Festival. 2 p.m. and 3 p.m., Symphonic Band; 6:30 p.m. and 7:30 p.m., Jazz Ensemble
Friday, Aug. 3: BT London Live – Victoria Park: Mayor of London’s Celebration for London during the Olympic Games. 9:40 p.m., Symphonic Band
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