Jacksonville, AL – Brett Buckner with the JSU media team first wrote about when David Clasgens, a sophomore majoring in music at Jacksonville State University, set out to create a musical composition, he aimed to encapsulate the highs and lows of his life. What transpired was an intricate and emotionally resonant piece titled “A Spectacle of Discovery,” set to debut on Monday, March 4, during the JSU Chamber Winds Concert at 7:30 p.m. in Leone Cole Auditorium. The concert is open to the public, and admission is free.
Clasgens, who hails from Music City itself, Nashville, was driven by a desire to translate the complexities of his experiences into musical notes. “I had this simple theme in the back of my head for the longest time. I thought I could finally put that theme on paper through this composition,” he shared. “I then came up with the chord progressions for this theme and added a variety of counter melodies, harmonies, variations, and embellishments to give it more life and flavor.”
What sets this performance apart is not just the original composition but the fact that Clasgens himself will conduct the piece. Dr. Ken Bodiford, JSU’s director of bands, expressed the rarity and exceptional nature of this opportunity for a sophomore composer. “It’s not every day that a sophomore composer gets the chance to have their work performed by the top concert band ensemble, let alone conduct it themselves. He is a super talented student,” Bodiford noted.
Having grown up surrounded by the rich musical atmosphere of Nashville, Clasgens developed an early passion for classical music and film scores. His musical journey includes arranging halftime show productions for his high school marching band and contributing arrangements for the jazz band. However, “A Spectacle of Discovery” marks his first major work for a large ensemble.
Clasgens, focusing his studies on percussion performance at JSU, is a multifaceted musician involved in various musical groups on campus, including the Marching Southerners, Chamber Winds, Jazz Ensemble I, Percussion Ensemble, INFERNO Steel Band, and the Hardcorps pep band. Despite being only a sophomore, he is already contemplating his post-graduation path, envisioning a career that combines his love for music with another passion.
“I think a composer for theme park rides would be a fitting gig for me considering my love for composing and riding roller coasters. I’ve also thought about writing music for films, commercials, and video games,” Clasgens shared.
As the audience gathers on March 4th to witness the premiere of “A Spectacle of Discovery,” they can expect not just a musical performance but an intimate reflection of the composer’s journey, skillfully conducted by the artist himself. The event promises to be a unique and memorable experience for all music enthusiasts and supporters of emerging talent.
