University News

Two WIU Alumni Chosen as Part of Glenn Miller Orchestra

February 26, 2019

Printer friendly version

MACOMB, IL – Two recent Western Illinois University graduates are transitioning from studying to performing as they were chosen as the new bassist and the new pianist for the internationally-renowned Glenn Miller Orchestra (GMO).

Aaron Krings received his bachelor's degree in music therapy in 2016, and his master's degree in jazz performance in 2018, both from WIU. On campus, he was the bassist for WIU's Jazz Studio Orchestra.

Byron McChord received his Master of Music in jazz studies and piano performance in 2016 and his post-baccalaureate certificate in piano performance in 2018. During his time on campus, McChord played piano in the Jazz Studio Orchestra and worked as the student accompanist for the WIU theatre department.

Both Krings and McChord were chosen for the prestigious orchestra after a national search.

"I first became aware of the opening through a long list of forwarded emails that finally reached my bass instructor at WIU, Matt Hughes, who let me know of the opportunity," said Krings. "From there, I had to compile a number of excerpts that showcased my playing to be sent in as an audition."

"I was not aware of any openings in the band when I sent in my materials," said McChord. "Aaron Krings and I were talking about the group and his new experience and he suggested I forward my materials to the road manager of the GMO. Eventually I got a call from the manager telling me they actually did have an opening in the piano chair and offered me the job."

Much of the video Krings and McChord submitted for their applications was created through new streaming capabilities in the WIU College of Fine Arts and Communication (COFAC) Recital Hall and its growing library of videos.

Krings began traveling with the orchestra early this year and said the education he received at Western was a "huge component as my growth as a musician."

"I spent most of the month of January traveling around Florida; we are working our way around the south and southwest in the months that follow," he said. "As a freshman, I couldn't even improvise a walking bass line, so that might give someone an idea of how raw I was in my first years studying at Western. But over time, with lots of personal practice, playing with more experienced musicians (upperclassmen, faculty and guest artists) and the multiple performance opportunities with small groups, big band and even on the classical side with the symphony orchestra, I was able to develop the skills that I needed to take this position with the Glenn Miller Orchestra."

McChord also attributes his experiences and education at WIU to his being accepted to such a prestigious group.

"The graduate assistantship in the jazz department during my master's degree included not only performing, but helping to organize recruiting tours of the Jazz Studio Orchestra," he said. "The tours, that included many performances with wonderful guest artists brought in by Dr. John Cooper, were fun, educational and a valuable preparation for life as a touring musician."

McChord began touring with the orchestra Feb. 15.

Krings said the opportunity will fulfill a personal goal to travel around the world while playing music at the same time. Both former students are most looking forward to the orchestra's fall performance in Japan.

"I'm looking forward to not only the experience of being a professional musician touring and performing, but the chance to perform with Aaron again, and to make friends and network with great musicians in the GMO," said McChord.

WIU Director of Jazz Studies John Cooper said Krings is very deserving of the opportunity.

"He has worked very hard in our program, both on the bandstand and off," said Cooper. "His talent is matched by his humility, and work ethic, and I'm so very happy for him."

In addition, Cooper was also very excited to hear of McChord's acceptance into the orchestra.

"I'm so happy for Byron. He came to Western, worked really hard and improved his musicianship greatly," said Cooper. "I know this experience will suit him well and that he will make a very positive contribution to the GMO, just as he has to our program. I am super proud of him."

Cooper said WIU provides its students with many performance opportunities which prepare them to move into professional performance opportunities when they graduate and move into their careers.

"The faculty expect professionalism from them, and when they respond, we know they are gaining valuable life skills for the profession," he said. "This extends far beyond just musicianship to good citizenship and collegiality, appearance, demeanor, dependability and professional conduct. Our faculty mentor and coach our students throughout their time at Western to succeed. We are proud when they do, but not surprised - it is what they've been trained to do, and for what our curriculum specifically prepares them."

For more information about the music programming available at WIU, visit wiu.edu/music.


Posted By: Kayla M. Harrington (WIUnews@wiu.edu)
Office of University Communications & Marketing