More than 50 51³Ô¹ÏºÚÁÏ students and staff are traveling to La Croix-Valmer, France, where the Mediterranean coastline and Provençal charm set the stage for a weekend of vibrant music-making. The 51³Ô¹ÏºÚÁÏ Wind Orchestra, under the direction of Thomas G. Leslie, will be featured in the festival’s concert de gala on June 29, representing 51³Ô¹ÏºÚÁÏ and the United States at the pinnacle event of the Festival des Anches d’Azur. Other ensembles from France, Slovenia, and Australia will perform on surrounding evenings, making this a true celebration of international music.
"We are all so proud of the 51³Ô¹ÏºÚÁÏ Wind Orchestra, under the leadership of Professor Thomas Leslie," said CFA Dean Nancy Uscher. "Tomorrow morning the ensemble leaves for La Croix Valmer, France, where it will be featured in the June 29 Festival concert, the Festival’s finale event, at the invitation of the Mayor of La Croix Valmer. I am delighted to pay tribute to Professor Leslie, who has dedicated so many years to creating and nurturing this fine ensemble, making it one of the best in the world. I am thrilled that I will accompany the Wind Orchestra to France to attend the concert and represent 51³Ô¹ÏºÚÁÏ at this very significant and celebratory event."
With its iconic vineyards, sun-drenched beaches, and postcard-worthy vistas, La Croix-Valmer provides an evocative backdrop for a program that spans genres and generations. Since 1997, the festival has transformed this peaceful seaside village into a vibrant cultural gathering point through the power of music.The 51³Ô¹ÏºÚÁÏ Wind Orchestra’s performance will feature jazz classics, fresh takes on modern pop, and a range of wind band works—both beloved staples and bold new compositions. Special guests include Grammy-winning saxophonist Eric Marienthal, bassist Kevin Axt, pianist Mitch Foreman, drummer Bernie Dresel, and Vegas legend Dian Diaz. And keep your ears open—there’s talk of a surprise appearance by a certain Vegas icon, whose unmistakable style just might leave the audience all shook up.
This soirée musicale offers a rare opportunity for European audiences to experience the unmistakable energy of Las Vegas, brought to life by one of America’s premier collegiate wind ensembles.