Practice and Events

Rosemount Community Band to Premiere Commissioned Work Honoring Founder John Zschunke Apple Valley, Minn. — The Rosemount Community Band (RCB) will present a very special Commission Concert on Sunday, November 16, 2025, at 4:00 p.m. at Shepherd of the Valley Lutheran Church in Apple Valley. The event will feature the world premiere of a newly commissioned work honoring the band’s founder and former director, John Zschunke.   Rosemount Community Band Dr. Cassandra Bechard, guest conductor John Williams, arr. Paul Lavender – Sound The Bells! Jodie Blackshaw – Letter From Sado Pierre Leemans, arr. James Swearingen – March of the Belgian Paratroopers Jodie Blackshaw – Where Silence Echoes (world premiere performance) David Holsinger – Fantasy On A Gaelic Hymnsong Tom Maeck - Rosemount Community Band Conductor   Minnesota Symphonic Winds Dr. Timothy Mahr, conductor Ron Nelson - Savannah River Holiday John Zdechlik – Lake Washington Suite Jodie Blackshaw – Ecology of the Soul (North American premiere) Katahj Copley - Infinity – Paul Kile, conductor Timothy Mahr – Burn Brightly   The new composition, titled Where the Silence Echoes, was written by acclaimed Australian composer Dr. Jodie Blackshaw. The concert will be conducted by Dr. Cassandra Bechard, RCB’s Interim Director. Also performing will be the Minnesota Symphonic Winds (MSW), under the direction of Dr. Timothy Mahr. “This concert represents the heart of our community and the legacy of a remarkable educator and musician,” said Dr. Bechard. “It’s a privilege to honor John’s impact through the artistry of Dr. Blackshaw’s music.”   About John Zschunke Zschunke founded the Rosemount Community Band in 2011 and served as conductor until his retirement in 2022. During his 44-year career as a music educator (1978–2022), he inspired generations of students in Independent School District 196, teaching at Rosemount Elementary, Rosemount Middle, and Rosemount High School.   In 2018, he was named Minnesota Music Educators Association “Teacher of the Year.” Known for his humor, warmth, and deep care for his students, Zschunke fostered a lifelong love of music in thousands of young musicians. A lifelong jazz enthusiast and fan of the funk band Tower of Power, he also treasures time with his three children—Benjamin, Jacob, and Emma—all of whom played in his bands growing up.   About the Composer – Dr. Jodie Blackshaw Australian composer Dr. Jodie Blackshaw is celebrated worldwide for her innovative, inclusive, and emotionally rich works for concert band. Her compositions emphasize color, movement, and meaning, creating transformative experiences for musicians and audiences alike.   Blackshaw is the founder of the Female Band Composer Database and ColourFULL Music, both internationally recognized initiatives supporting equity and diversity in concert band repertoire. Her ongoing Conservation Series of works raises awareness and funds for climate and environmental causes. In 2022, she joined the Board of Directors of the World Association of Symphonic Bands and Ensembles (WASBE).   About the Conductors Dr. Cassandra Bechard, RCB’s guest Conductor, serves as Director of Bands and Assistant Professor of Music at the University of Northwestern – St. Paul. A Yamaha “40 Under 40” honoree, she is recognized nationally for her creativity, leadership, and advocacy in music education.   Dr. Timothy Mahr, Director of the Minnesota Symphonic Winds, has led the ensemble in presenting exceptional symphonic band literature for more than 40 years. The 90-member community band includes musicians from a wide range of professions who share a deep commitment to artistic excellence and community engagement.   About the Rosemount Community Band The Rosemount Community Band is an all-volunteer ensemble founded in 2011. With more than 50 members ranging in age from their 20s to 80s, the band draws musicians from Rosemount, Apple Valley, Eagan, and surrounding communities. RCB’s mission is to provide post-school musicians with opportunities to perform, inspire young musicians to continue their musical journey, and present high-quality concerts throughout the region. Tom Maeck is the Conductor of the Rosemount Community Band.   Event Details:
Rosemount Community Band Commission Concert
Featuring the world premiere of Where the Silence Echoes by Dr. Jodie Blackshaw
Sunday, November 16, 2025 – 4:00 p.m.
Shepherd of the Valley Lutheran Church, Apple Valley, MN