The Department of Music at Delta State University inaugurated a new era of presenting departmental events recently with a live Internet broadcast of the Delta State Wind Ensemble concert, led by Director of Bands Joe Moore, on Veteran’s Day. Over 80 people watched the wind ensemble concert in real time through the department’s dedicated UStream “station” (www.ustream.tv/channel/dsumusic), while others viewed the archived performance later in the evening.
Percussion Instructor Josh Armstrong, who set up the live streaming technology, commented, “We have received some great feedback from people that watched it online…What a great way to reach high school students and community college students without having to leave [our campus]!”
The Department of Music plans to make live streaming a part of its regular community outreach. The music faculty wants potential new majors to have easy access to campus events, and maintain a strong connection with music alumni, patrons, and friends of the department. Through technology, these goals can be accomplished in an up-to-date and cost-effective way. The service is free of charge to both broadcaster and viewer.
Dr. Mark Butler, interim department chair and professor of music, feels the use of technology such as “streaming” provides a lot of potential for increasing the department’s public relations efforts. “This avenue really enhances our ability to highlight the department’s dynamic music instructors, talented students, and varied performances and activities. Not only can we transmit live concerts, but also lectures, interviews with students and faculty, informational ads, and even private lessons and ensemble rehearsals,” he said.
For more information about the Delta State University Department of Music and its concerts and activities, call 662-846-4615, or visit the department’s homepage at http://music.deltastate.edu .
