AMARILLO, Texas (KAMR/KCIT) – The Amarillo Symphony announced that it will welcome more than 8,000 students to the 53rd annual Greater Southwest Music Festival set to be held from Thursday through Saturday in downtown Amarillo.

According to the symphony, the GSWMF will welcome student musicians from across Texas, new Mexico and Oklahoma. As a “longstanding pillar of the music community throughout the Tri-State area,” organizers noted that the festival will aim to provide students with opportunities for performance, feedback and growth. Participants will compete in large ensembles as well as in solo categories and receive critique from music educators and adjudicators.

Organizers noted that the 2024 GSWMF will kick off its “most exciting season yet” with events including special performances by the West Texas A&M University Symphonic Band, the 77th US Army Band and a concert and masterclass with concert pianist Hyeree Roux.

“Congratulations to all our many competing students and their teachers and directors and thank you to all our many sponsors for keeping this Festival alive and thriving for the students of the Panhandle and surrounding areas,” said GSWMF President Eileene Moss.

Highlights of the GSWMF schedule noted by organizers include:

• WTAMU Symphonic Band Concert: Experience
  • Thursday, 7:30 p.m.
  • Globe-News Center for the Performing Arts
  • Free admission
• The 77th US Army Jazz Band
  • Friday, 12 p.m. – 1 p.m.
  • Amarillo Civic Center Concourse
• Piano Masterclass with Hyeree Chung Roux
  • Saturday, 12 p.m.
  • Amarillo College Music Building Concert Hall
  • Free admission
• Free Ensemble Performances
  • 8 a.m. – 5:40 p.m. daily
  • Amarillo Civic Center, Globe-News Center for the Performing Arts, Amarillo College Washington Street Campus

The full schedule for the GSWMF can be viewed on the Amarillo Symphony website.

“The Amarillo Symphony is committed to nurturing the next generation of musicians,” said Larry Lang, executive director of the Amarillo Symphony, “The GSWMF is a testament to our mission and the power of music education.”