Fritz conducts Honor Band at Iowa State

Decorah High School Director of Bands James L. Fritz was one of the conductors at the 34th Annual Iowa State University Honor Band held on Friday and Saturday, February 5th and 6th.

Fritz conducted the 125 member Cardinal Band, made up of top sophomores, juniors and seniors attending the Honor Band conference. He shared the podium with eminent composer Dr. Frank Ticheli, who conducted the Gold Band made up of 65 former all-state musicians.

Fritz also guest conducted the ISU Wind Ensemble, the top concert band at the university. His daughter, Deanna, is a freshman at ISU and is a member of the ISU Wind Ensemble horn section. The final Grand Concert was held in the C.Y. Stephens auditorium on Saturday afternoon.

"It was a great opportunity for me both musically and professionally," commented Fritz. "My band was outstanding and together we created some great music."

"It was also a thrill to spend time with Frank Ticheli," Fritz said. "He's the closest thing we have to a 'rock star' in the band world. It was a wonderful weekend and was graciously hosted by Dr. Mike Golemo, ISU Director of Bands."