Pops: The Sound of America, the Pulse of ENMU

By Robert Graham

Henry Lee Higginson established the Boston Symphony Orchestra (BSO) in 1881. Initially referred to as “Promenade Concerts”, second as “Popular Concerts”, the BSO shortened and simplified the title to ‘Pops Concerts’ as the 19th transitioned to the 20th century. The Boston Symphony Orchestra credits its half-century composer Arthur Fiedler (1930-1979) with establishing “the Boston Pops as a national icon” that other institutions around the United States of America embraced, adopted and expanded over the twentieth century.

ENMU inaugurated its Pops tradition 49 years ago and celebrated its 48th Annual Pops Dinner Concert on Saturday, Nov. 14, 2015. The event recognized the contributions of music educators and alumni Eunice Schumpert (Attended), Brian Uerling (MM 03) and David Allen (MME 76, BME 69).

Standing L-R: Meredith Seifert, Beth Allen, David Allen (MME 76, BME 69) and Brian Uerling (MM 03). Seated L-R: Eunice Schumpert (Attended), James Golden (BS 12) and Jude Uerling.

ENMU Executive Director of Planning and Analysis / University Friends of Music President Dr. Patrice Caldwell says that David, Brian and Eunice “belong to a special category of teachers who have a gift and are willing to share it.” In her 90s, Eunice continues to offer private piano lessons.

The University Friends of Music awarded $10,500 in scholarships and awards and over $4,000 to sponsoring guest artists at ENMU during the 2014-2015 academic year. By showcasing student performers and recognizing ENMU faculty, music educators and community supporters, the annual Pops dinner concert plays an important role in the philanthropic work of the University Friends of Music.

This year’s Pops concert featured the following principals and future ENMU alumni: Sara Maynerich (flute), Chance O’Shea (oboe), Anthony Aguayo (clarinet), Alexander Olivas (alto saxophone), Adan Martinez (trumpet), Hope Meilke (horn), Michael Bradley (trombone), Andres Labastida (euphonium), Melissa Moore (tuba) and Stephen Yung (percussion).