AC Performance to Honor Memory of Longtime Orchestra Director

The Amarillo College Music Department invites the community to enjoy—and even join—a special shared concert by the AC Chamber Orchestra and AC Guitar Ensemble honoring longtime AC director David Hinds. The tribute concert will take place at 7:30 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 20, in the Concert Hall on AC’s Washington Street Campus, with audience members welcome to play along on their own instruments for the final piece.

Hinds, who passed away earlier this month, dedicated 20 years to Amarillo College and spent more than 40 years in music education and performance. His professional career included over 36 years as 2nd chair trumpet with the Amarillo Symphony. He taught for decades in Amarillo ISD, led both the AC Chamber Orchestra and Suzuki Orchestra, and served on the board of the Greater Southwest Music Festival, continuing his work when it transitioned to the Amarillo Symphony. Hinds was widely respected statewide as a clinician and UIL adjudicator. In retirement, he became a recognized composer, specializing in orchestral works for younger ensembles.

In his honor, the AC Chamber Orchestra will perform Hinds’ final published composition, “Spring Fest,” as the concluding piece of the program. String students, teachers, and community members are invited to join the Chamber Orchestra on this easily sight-readable piece. Those interested should bring their instrument, wear black, and gather backstage while the previous piece is being performed.

“This concert is a meaningful opportunity for our students and community to celebrate David’s immense legacy at Amarillo College and in the broader music world,” said Camille D. Nies, chair of music and theatre and professor of music at Amarillo College. “We are honored to offer this small tribute to an incredible man."

The Chamber Orchestra portion will be conducted by Bruce Collins, while the AC Guitar Ensemble will perform under the direction of Homero Campos.

The AC Guitar Ensemble, led by Campos, will perform selections including “Etude” by Carulli and George Harrison’s “While My Guitar Gently Weeps,” along with additional classical and contemporary works.

The Chamber Orchestra program will feature a mix of student favorites and significant repertoire, including selections from Béla Bartók’s “Ten Pieces for Children,” Brian Balmages’ “You Are Amazing,” and Telemann’s “Grave and Allegro”—leading to the finale performance of Hinds’ Spring Fest.

The performance is free and open to the public.