Iowa Bandmasters Association
Perry Commission Project

Dear IBA Members,

The Iowa Bandmasters Association announces the Iowa Bandmasters Association Perry Commissioning Project.  The goal of this project is to commission a new piece of band music honoring the resilience of the people of Perry, Iowa as they continue to grieve and recover from the tragic events of January 4, 2024. The composition will commemorate and honor the memories of Ahmir Jolliff (student) and Dan Marburger (principal), who lost their lives on that day, and extend a spirit of support and hope from the entire Iowa instrumental music community.  The premier of the composition will be performed in the Perry Performing Arts Center on April 7, 2025 by members of the Perry HS & MS bands, and the Central College Wind Ensemble.

The project team is calling for financial assistance for this specially commissioned work through donations from multiple sources including IBA Membership, IBA Districts, IBARD, IBA Past Presidents, school bands, community bands, and all those sympathetic to the message of maintaining safe and positive school experiences for young musicians everywhere.

In seeking multiple perspectives and input, the project team has organized an advisory group. Membership includes representation from all IBA Districts, Perry Band Staff, and other supportive individuals, including Ben Carson, Lisa Christensen, Alexa Gibbs, Brad Lampe, Aaron Ottmar, Rishi Kolusu, Courtney Ridge, Pat Toben, Blaine Schmidt, Roxianne Scott, and Kelly Weber.  Further outreach is being facilitated by Eric Bush, Jim Fritz, Liz Fritz, Terry Hanzlik, Mark Heidel, Christa Miller, and Rich Timmiscsh.

We are proud to announce that Michele Fernandez will serve as our commissioned composer. Michele comes with a national reputation and writes powerful music for young bands.  More on Michele Fernandez and her music can be found on her website.  The Perry Band staff, along with school and community members, has asked that the work reflect the resilience of the people of Perry, the community’s diverse culture, and it’s history as a hardworking railroad town.  The work will be written as an accessible Grade 3.  

Our goal is to raise $9,000.00 for this project.  Any funds received that exceed our costs will be given directly to the Perry Community Schools Instrumental Music Department.

There are two primary ways for individuals and organizations to help provide financial assistance.  

1.         Donate directly to the Iowa Bandmasters Association Commissioning Project.  Please visit this link to donate online (donation links have been disabled).  All Donations will be recognized on this website. Consortium members and donors gifting at the $100.00 level and above will be recognized in the score. 

Conductor Platinum Level $750.00 +
 

Soloist Gold Level $250.00 - $749.00

Principal Chair Silver Level $100.00 - $249.00

Musician Bronze Level $10.00 - $99.00

2.          Become a member of the Iowa Bandmasters Association Perry Commissioning Project Consortium.  Please visit this link to learn more about becoming a consortium member.  Please contact one of our project team members if you have any questions about consortium memberships.

You may also send a check to IBA Treasurer Tiffany Nelson at the below address. Please specify Donation or Consortium in the memo bar.  Checks should be made out to the Iowa Bandmasters Association.

Tiffany Nelson, Treasurer
Iowa Bandmasters Association
208 Main Street
Dakota City, IA  50529

We would be honored if you would donate to this very worthy cause.  

Sincerely,

Iowa Bandmasters Association Perry Commission Project Team
Steve Cook, Tony Garmoe, Patrick Kearney, Steve Shanley

DONATE NOW

Last Updated: August 16, 2024