News

Monday, January 27, 2025

NDSU Composers selected for performance at International Double Reed Society conference

For Immediate Release

NDSU Composers and Dr. Martin Van Klompenberg Featured in The Contrabassoon Character Piece Project at the 54th International Double Reed Society Conference

Fargo, ND: North Dakota State University (NDSU) is proud to announce that Dr. Martin Van Klompenberg, instructor of bassoon, will present The Contrabassoon Character Piece Project at the 54th International Double Reed Society (IDRS) Conference, taking place this summer in Indianapolis, Indiana. This exciting program highlights the work of NDSU composers and brings new, original repertoire to the contrabassoon, an instrument often overlooked outside the orchestral context.

In addition to his role as a collaborator, Dr. Van Klompenberg has composed a new work for the contrabassoon as part of this program. The Contrabassoon Character Piece Project also includes works by Snow Kim (DMA Candidate, University of Kansas), along with NDSU composers Kyle Vanderburg (Composer in Residence), and Jonathon Erickson (Composition student). Dr. Van Klompenberg’s own contribution to the program further underscores the depth of talent within the NDSU composition community.

The program addresses the need for expanded repertoire for the contrabassoon with piano accompaniment, and Dr. Van Klompenberg’s leadership in commissioning these new works underscores NDSU’s commitment to fostering connections between students, faculty, and professional musicians. The inclusion of current students and faculty members in this project is a testament to the collaborative spirit and creative energy that defines the NDSU Composition Program.

The IDRS Conference, renowned for its dynamic programming of recitals, masterclasses, and workshops, will provide an excellent platform for these innovative works. The presence of NDSU composers at this prestigious international conference reinforces the university’s role in shaping the future of contemporary music performance and composition.

About Dr. Martin Van Klompenberg

Dr. Martin J. Van Klompenberg is a bassoonist, composer, and educator at North Dakota State University, where he teaches bassoon and chamber music. A former member of the United States Army Band program, he holds a Doctorate of Musical Arts from the University of Arizona and degrees from Arizona State University and Western Michigan University. Dr. Van Klompenberg is an advocate for new music, commissioning and premiering works by several composers. He is the contrabassoonist for the Fargo-Moorhead Symphony Orchestra and has performed with numerous ensembles, including the Louisville Orchestra and the West Virginia Symphony.

For more information about Dr. Van Klompenberg, see https://martinvanklompenberg.com.

About NDSU Composition

The NDSU Composition Program is dedicated to nurturing the next generation of composers, fostering an environment where students engage with the creative process, collaborate across disciplines, and contribute to the future of contemporary music.

For more information about the NDSU composition program, see https://ndsucomposition.com.