DIRECTOR OF BANDS HELPS LEAD FIRST-EVER HBCU SUMMER BAND CAMP IN ANCHORAGE

Alabama A&M University Director of Bands Carlton Wright has performed all over the country – but never quite like this. This June, Wright traveled more than 3,500 miles from The Hill to Anchorage, Alaska, to help lead the inaugural Umoja HBCU Summer Band Camp, a historic three-day experience designed to introduce young students to the rich legacy of Historically Black College and University (HBCU) band culture.

The camp was hosted by Umoja Coworking & Incubator and its founder, Jasmin Smith. Umoja Coworking & Incubator is a community-centered space in Anchorage’s Mountain View neighborhood. Founded in 2020, Umoja empowers underrepresented entrepreneurs and fosters cultural and economic collaboration. The Swahili word “umoja” means unity – and that theme was echoed throughout the camp’s mission: to show students that music and culture can open doors.

Held June 11–13 at Dr. Etheldra Davis Fairview Elementary School, the camp welcomed students from grades 6 through 10 and offered fundamentals in musicianship, marching techniques, and the vibrant traditions that define HBCU bands. The program culminated with a spirited student performance during the Citywide Juneteenth Celebration on June 14…

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