University of Nebraska

We have finally moved into two-thirds of our new building. The abundance of natural light and communal space are transformative. The seemingly endless list of repairs and adjustments is infuriating. We now know why they call it a punch list, we just don't know who to punch. The project should be completed by the end of next semester, a mere year and a half after the original deadline. In other construction news, the renovation of Kimball Recital Hall is allegedly complete. We are performing in the space after a three year hiatus. The acoustics are crystal clear, the aesthetics are lovely, the pit cover doesn't fit (currently just a harrowing ten-foot drop to concrete), the efficacy of the wiring is unpredictable, the equipment lift works if you know how to use the broom handle to push the big red button, and there is a tsunami in the marching band instrument storage room when it rains. See comment re: punch list above. In spite of the adventures of the building projects (we're on our fifth project manager)

The bands are operating up to specs. The wind ensemble has performed seven premieres this semester including a complete program of commissions as part of the Composing in the Wilderness project: https://www.composinginthewilderness.com  

The Huskers remembered how to play football and the Cornhusker Marching Band is, as of this writing, waiting to hear what bowl is in their future. We are all beside ourselves with joy that it won't be the Bad Boy Mowers Pinstripe Bowl again. 

The symphonic and campus bands are  continuing their yeoman service through creative and inspiring programming, and the Big Red Express is hoping to follow the volleyball team straight to the national championship (by the time you read this we'll know how that turned out). Go Big Red.