WSC’s Norris Performs With South Dakota Symphony Orchestra

WILLISTON, N.D. — Dr. Kyle Norris, Assistant Professor of Music was invited to play with the South Dakota Symphony Orchestra (SDSO) at the Washington Pavilion in Sioux Falls, SD, October 3.

The SDSO is a professional orchestra made up of musicians from South Dakota and the surrounding areas. The orchestra presented Gustav Mahler’s Symphony No. 6 in A minor, sometimes referred to as the “tragic” symphony due to events taking place in Mahler’s life at the time of composition. Norris joined the SDSO for their first concert of the season.

“This is my first time performing with the SDSO,” Norris noted. “It is a privilege to be asked to perform with any orchestra, but this is special because of the repertoire being performed.”

Dr. Norris was invited by Mark Nelson, principal trumpet player with the SDSO. Norris and Nelson first performed together in the Greater Grand Forks Symphony Orchestra while Norris lived in Fargo, ND, and they have played together for the past five years on several occasions. “I have great respect for him both as a person and a musician,” Norris remarked.

Since receiving his Master of Music degree in trumpet performance from Ohio University and his Doctorate of Musical Arts in trumpet performance from North Dakota State University, Norris has maintained a busy performance schedule. He has appeared with orchestras throughout the US, and during his time in North Dakota, Norris has performed with the Greater Grand Forks Symphony Orchestra, Bismarck-Mandan Symphony Orchestra, Minot Symphony Orchestra, and the Fargo/Moorhead Symphony and Opera.

In addition to his classical experience, Norris has been active as a commercial jazz player alongside such legends as Doc Severinsen, Wayne Bergeron, and The Temptations.

Since joining WSC in 2013, Norris’ responsibilities have included directing all instrumental and vocal ensembles and teaching private lessons as well as courses in fundamentals of music and music appreciation. During the summer, Norris serves as part of the artist teaching faculty at the International Music Camp and serves as director for the Williston City Band.

For more information, contact Kyle Norris at 701.774.4572.
For any information regarding WSC, please visit www.willistonstate.edu,
call 1.888.863.9455, or stop by 1410 University Avenue, Williston, ND.

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