2025 Carnegie Hall Recap

Dear Alumni & Friends,

I wanted to take a moment to express my deepest gratitude to those of you that were in the audience during the West Texas A&M University Symphonic Band’s performance at Carnegie Hall.

Performing in Carnegie Hall was a dream come true, and it was made even more special by the support of friends like you. I’ve been asked, “What did the band sound like on the that hallowed stage?” It is difficult to describe, but I would say, there is a warmth to that hall that I have never experienced, not even close. It is so special that you wish you could bottle it up and take it with you everywhere you perform.

The students and I truly appreciate the time, effort and expense that you put into traveling to New York City. All of us would agree that New York City is a wonderful place to visit and enjoy all that is available to you—from concerts, fine cuisine, museums and Broadway Shows.

On a personal note, I would like to thank a few people that made this experience so special. First, the members of the WTAMU Symphonic Band. Second, Dr. Russ Teweleit, Dr. BJ Brooks, Dr. Ryan Boehme, Ms. Jessica Schury and Dr. Jenny Miller. In addition, I would like to thank Green Light Tour Company, Apryl and Corey Black. If you plan to take a trip with a large group of students, get in touch with Green Light, you will not be sorry. I also want to thank my family (Braden and Lee Ann), you are the best. Finally, all my old friends, you know who you are, you are the ones that shed a few tears with me before and after the concert. I hope that we have many more wonderful years together. I owe you so much!

We are so grateful to have you as a part of our journey, and we look forward to future memories that we can share with you. Once again, thank you from the bottom of our hearts for being there in Carnegie Hall. I feel honored to have you as friend and I cannot wait to see you again soon. I’m sorry that I was not able to meet with each of you after the concert—please know that I am very appreciative.

Sincerely,
Don Lefevre
Director of Bands
West Texas A&M University