Eastern Michigan University Marching Band Music Exchange

EVENT DESCRIPTION

To commemorate the 250th Anniversary of U.S. Independence, the U.S. Consulate General Hong Kong and Macau and Asia Society Hong Kong Center (ASHK) will present a vibrant musical celebration featuring the Eastern Michigan University (EMU) Marching Band. Led by Dr. J. Nick Smith, the 16-member band will bring American pageantry to Hong Kong with classic band cheers, spirited stand tunes, and iconic favorites—including Stars and Stripes Forever and the Washington Post March—showcasing the vibrancy and cultural tradition of American collegiate band music.

Monday, June 22, 2026
[In-person] The Hong Kong Jockey Club Hall, Asia Society Hong Kong Center

5:45 pm Registration
6:00 pm Performance
7:00 pm End

This program is free of charge; registration is required.

ABOUT THE ARTIST / ORGANISER

The Eastern Michigan University Marching Band was formally organized in 1924 by Professor J.F. Barnhill and operated as a student-funded extracurricular group performing at parades, concerts, and athletic events. Captain Wilfred Wilson served as the first director. After World War II, Dr. William D. Fitch helped elevate the band’s musicianship, followed by Mitchell M. Osadchuck and Thomas Tyra. Tyra introduced many lasting traditions, including Go Green and the current version of the University’s Alma Mater, Our Pledge. Today, the “Pride of the Peninsula,” the Eastern Michigan University Marching Band, includes graduate and undergraduate students from across the university’s academic programs. A source of spirit and pride on campus, the band is dedicated to enriching the lives of its members, supporting the university and community, and creating memorable performances.

J. Nick Smith is Associate Professor, Associate Director of Bands, and Director of Athletic Bands in the School of Music & Dance at Eastern Michigan University. He holds a Doctor of Musical Arts in Wind Band Conducting, with an emphasis in Choral Conducting, from the University of Minnesota and a Master of Music in Wind Band Conducting from the University of Michigan.