LAWRENCE — At the initiation of the U.S. Department of State, the University of Kansas Wind Ensemble will represent the United States at the 2025 World Exposition in Osaka, Japan, as part of a landmark international tour from June 25-July 5.
Recognized as one of the nation’s premier collegiate wind bands, the ensemble will perform a series of concerts both independently and in collaboration with Osaka University of the Arts.
Highlighting KU’s global reach and commitment to musical excellence, the performances will feature a diverse program celebrating American music, including works by Aaron Copland, John Philip Sousa, Florence Price, James Barnes and George Gershwin, alongside joint concerts with Japanese musicians performing iconic selections from both countries’ musical traditions.
“Our participation in the World Expo is a tremendous honor and a powerful example of how music can transcend borders,” said Paul Popiel, Dean of the KU School of Music and conductor on the tour. “This is a rare opportunity for our students to engage with international audiences and create lifelong artistic partnerships.”
Concerts will be held in Osaka, culminating in a July 4 performance spotlighting American compositions. The KU ensemble will perform alongside faculty and students from Osaka University of the Arts, strengthening KU’s ongoing partnerships in Japan.
Featured soloists include KU faculty trumpet professor Steve Leisring, clarinetist Richard Galbreath and KU’s Midway Brass Quintet. The tour also marks the Asian premiere of “Skybound” by composer Grace Baugher-Dunlap.
The KU Wind Ensemble’s tour is made possible with support from the U.S. State Department, the University of Kansas Office of International Affairs, the USA Pavilion at the Exposition and the support from KU Endowment. The ensemble is co-directed by Matthew Smith and Popiel.
For more information on the KU Wind Ensemble and its international performances, visit music.ku.edu.
AloJapan.com