Seaver College Senior Eric Ko Joins WIBC Intercollegiate Honor Band

Eric Ko, a Seaver College senior studying business administration, was recently accepted to perform percussion with the Western International Band Clinic’s (WIBC) Intercollegiate Honor Band in Seattle, Washington. By earning this placement, Ko received the opportunity to practice, study, and perform alongside burgeoning and established talents in the world of orchestral music.

“To be accepted into groups and orchestras, a musician must have the professional skills and repertoire to prove their ability,” says Ko. “This opportunity is a great way to add to my experiences, playing and learning with some of the best in the country. Not only will it look good on paper, but learning from many experienced professionals as well as my fellow musicians in the field is something that will help me grow as a performer.”

The WIBC builds two honor bands annually––one for high school students and one for college students. In order to be considered for the band, participants must submit an application including recorded samples demonstrating their performance ability. Once accepted, students travel to Seattle to engage in a number of rehearsals and specialized clinics with reputable composers.

As a member of the 2023 cohort, Ko will study alongside orchestral directors from a number of higher educational institutions including Rebecca Phillips at Colorado State University, Dennis Llinás at the University of Oregon, and Erik Leung at Oregon State University, who will help refine and enhance the ability of each student at their respective instruments. 

Ko, who plays percussion instruments like the marimba, vibraphone, and timpani in the Pepperdine Orchestra, was encouraged to apply for this prestigious honor band by his professor, Pierre Tang, who also directs instrumental ensembles on campus. By participating in the WIBC Intercollegiate Honor Band, Ko hopes to progress toward pursuing music after graduating college.

“As someone who is studying and performing percussion here at Pepperdine, I want to use any opportunity to learn and perform music to its fullest potential,” says Ko. “This chance to participate in the WIBC Clinic was a step in the right direction. It was an intense day of nothing except music in a professional and educational setting.”