Williston, N.D. - This school year started on a high note for the Williston State College Music Program when it received a second annual donation from First National Bank and Trust in Williston.

The donation, totaling $1,568.64, will be used to purchase a new drum set.   Last year, First National donated $1,608.99. The funds purchased a new mellophone for the music program.  

"Students benefit from these donations because we are slowly building an inventory of instruments they can access," explained Dr. Kyle Norris, Associate Professor of Music and the Director of the WSC Music Program. "The mellophone is used by the Teton Athletic Band and the drum set will be used by all the ensembles on campus: the Teton Athletic Band, Concert Choir, Williston State Community Orchestra, and WSC City Band."  

Moving forward, First National will work with the Williston State College Foundation to become a Business Sponsor. As a Gold Level sponsor, First National will donate $2,000 each year to the WSC Foundation and the funds will be set aside for the music program.  

"First National has been very generous to the music program," stated Dr. Norris. "I appreciate the support, but more importantly, students directly benefit. It's great to see students have the opportunity to explore or continue with these instruments!"  

The WSC Music Program has expanded in recent years. Last year was the debut of the Teton Athletic Band, a group that performs at on-campus sporting events like Men's and Women's Basketball. The band played at 12 events, including some where they collaborated with area high school pep bands.  

"The Teton Athletic Band is a fun, low stress way to keep students involved in music when they come to WSC," explained Dr. Norris.  

In addition, the Williston State Community Orchestra (WSCO) is a new group that combines players from the Williston Strings and WSC City Band. WSCO performs music composed for a full orchestra and includes current, former, and future WSC students, along with area music educators and community members.  

The fall semester is busy for many of the campus musical groups, particularly during the holiday months.

"We have a number of performances that different groups do each year," explained Dr. Norris. "These performances are a great way to have our musicians performing out in the community. Keep your calendars open!"  

For more information on the WSC Music Program and upcoming performances, please contact Dr. Kyle Norris at 701.774.4572 or kyle.norris@willistonstate.edu.

For any information regarding WSC, please visit www.willistonstate.edu, call 1.888.863.9455, or stop by 1410 University Avenue, Williston, ND.