On Sunday, March 21, Southwestern Adventist University's Brass Ensemble joined the Texas Headquarters Brass Quintet for a morning of music, becoming the first college musical group in the Base's 130-year history to perform at Camp Mabry; the camp serves as headquarters for the Texas State Military Department.

The ensemble and quintet shared over a half dozen pieces including works by Bach, Billings and Hayden. The performance welcomed families, community members and military leaders including Col. Thomas Mower, Command Chaplain. 

In Fall 2020, The Military Department of the State of Texas commissioned Steve Hubbard (Class of 79), adjunct professor of music at Southwestern Adventist University, as a First Lieutenant. He was assigned as the Band Officer for the State Guard Headquarters and over the past six months has recruited, auditioned and directed the Headquarters Brass Quintet. Additionally, 1 LT Hubbard is recruiting a 25-member ceremonial band to perform for special events four times per year. Sunday's performance marks the first public performance of 1 LT Hubbard’s new band.

“Being able to conduct these two ensembles in a joint concert was a great thrill,” shared 1 LT Hubbard. “To be an adjunct professor at SWAU and an active-duty military musician at the same time allows me to offer interesting and unique musical experiences to both my SWAU students and military musicians.”

For the past 13 decades, Camp Mabry has served as Texas' headquarters for the Air National Guard, Texas National Guard and Texas State Guard. These entities lead humanitarian efforts across the state during disasters and times of crisis. 

To learn more about SWAU's Department of Music, click here.