Music Conference

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 

Jan. 31, 2024     

ELIZABETH CITY, N.C. (Jan. 31, 2024) – A conglomerate of musicians from 10 institutions will participate in this year’s Intercollegiate Music Association (IMA) Convention at Elizabeth City State University (ECSU), Feb. 8-10, in the Mickey L. Burnim Fine Arts Center. This event includes two days of closed, full rehearsals, as well as open sessions. 

Serving as the event’s featured guest clinicians are Andre King, director of bands at Shaw University, James Armstrong, associate director of bands at Winston-Salem State University (WSSU), and Walter Swan, director of Choral Activities at ECSU. The IMA Symphonic Band, Mixed Choir and Jazz Band are the event’s featured ensembles.  

IMA was founded in 1960 by Nathaniel Gatlin, Evelyn Johnson, and Albert Grauer. The group has since worked to enhance music performance and education for Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) on the East Coast.  

Juliet Boykins is director of bands at ECSU and is serving in her first year as IMA president. It's a unique privilege to lead such an event in Viking Land, she said.  

“I am beyond excited. This convention is not just a gathering. It's a celebration of musical excellence, educational growth, and cultural diversity,” she said. “All participating directors are deeply committed to creating an inspiring and collaborative environment for all attendees. It's an outstanding opportunity for all students from the participating institutions to showcase their musical talents and reinforce the importance of the arts in academia.” 

The public is invited to attend the student recital Friday, Feb. 9 at 7:30 p.m. in the Floyd L. Robinson Auditorium, as well as the grand finale concert Saturday, Feb. 10 at 1:30 p.m. Admission is free. For more information email jmboykins@ecsu.edu or call 252-335-3658.

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