Virginia State University Named Finalist In Renowned Band/Wind Ensemble Competition

This outstanding achievement highlights the VSU Wind Symphony's exceptional artistic standards and the continued growth of the University's music program.

Virginia State University proudly recognizes its Wind Symphony for being named a finalist in the American Prize National Nonprofit Competitions in the Performing Arts. VSU was one of seven finalists and the only Historically Black College or University (HBCU) in The American Prize in Band/Wind Ensemble Performance—College/University Division.

The American Prize is considered the nation's most comprehensive series of contests in the performing arts. Based on submitted recordings, it is designed to recognize and reward the best-performing artists, directors, ensembles, and composers in the United States at professional, college/university, community, and high school levels.

Unlike other music competitions, there is no preset number of finalists in any division and contestants do not compete against each other. Instead, finalists are selected based on judges' perceptions of artistic ideals. In ensemble categories, the judges also consider the size of the program and the relative difficulty of the repertoire performed.

HBCUs are rarely recognized in national classical music competitions, making this recognition especially significant. Under the leadership of Director Dr. Samuel Rowley, the Virginia State University Wind Symphony continues to elevate the University's long-standing legacy in music education and performance.

Winners and runners-up will be announced soon on The American Prize's official Facebook and Twitter accounts.