The Loadbang Ensemble consists of (from left to right) bass clarinet player and
bassist Adrian Sandi, Andy Kozar on trumpet, baritone vocalist
Jeffrey Gavett and William Lang on trombone.
Courtesy of Public Information

The Loadbang Ensemble, a group who creates a blend of rich sounds and jazzy influences from New York, will hit center stage in Hammond, Louisiana.  

The Loadbang Ensemble will kickoff the Guest Artist Recital Series starting Feb. 13 in Pottle Auditorium at 7:30 p.m. 

The Loadbang Ensemble is a quartet on a mission to compose contemporary works and develop a “unique language of improvisation.” This has led them to receive considerable praise and notoriety. 

“Loadbang is one of a few performers kicking off our guest artist series. They are performing at Southeastern as part of a tour of the South,” said Dr. Philip Schuessler, instructor of theory and composition. “We are honored to have an ensemble of such high caliber headlining the series. Loadbang is among the top ensembles from New York City who specialize mainly in contemporary, modern music repertoire, and it is thrilling to have this kind of music performed here. It’s not every day that you have such a specialized kind of music performed, especially music of such a virtuosic and demanding quality.” 

Loadbang is well known for their passion of giving back to and working with the youth, including elementary school children in the New York Philharmonic’s as well as others in high schools and universities. 

Students who attend the concert can develop a passion for their music and learn many aspects of the music industry.

“Students gain a lot by watching and hearing professional artists performing at such a high level. They learn what it takes to be a professional musician working and living in a big city and showcasing their art form to various audiences across the country,” said Schuessler. “These players are role models for our students, and they learn more than just how to play an instrument. They learn how to be a well-rounded, active musician by interacting with these players.”

The growth and blossom of Southeastern’s music department has led them to showcase their talent. 

“I think that the Southeastern music department is truly making a name for itself as a top level host for contemporary music acts traveling through the area. Players want to perform here because of Southeastern’s growing reputation for receptive audiences and adventurous programming,” said Schuessler. 

This great reputation of the music department has led many artists here, such as Iktus Duo, to showcase their talent, giving students great lessons of music. 

For more information on the Guest Artist Recital Series or any other musical performances contact the Fine and Performing Arts department at 985-549-2184.