HENDERSON, NC (January 15, 2026) — Vance-Granville Community College will bring together more than 100 outstanding middle and high school musicians from across the region for its fourth annual Youth Honor Band, culminating in a public concert on Friday, Jan. 23.

Band directors from participating schools nominated students for their musical skill, dedication, and leadership. The selected students will arrive on campus Thursday, Jan. 22, to begin intensive rehearsals; they will reconvene Friday morning and prepare for a polished performance that evening.

Throughout the two-day event, students will collaborate with peers they may not otherwise encounter, gaining experience in a collegiate rehearsal environment while developing advanced ensemble techniques. Music selections were not yet finalized at the time of publication, but event organizers offered a preview of what songs attendees might hear: “Vulcan’s Forge,” “Bushido (The Warrior Code),” “William Tell Overture,” and “The Sound of Music,” among other works.

VGCC music instructor and Community Band director Brian D. Miller will conduct the advanced ensemble. Jaron Cox, middle school band director at Franklin Academy, will direct the intermediate band. Together, the conductors will guide students through focused rehearsals designed to challenge and inspire young performers at different skill levels. A planning committee composed of VGCC representatives, area band directors, school administrators, local business owners, and community members organized the event.

The band’s concert will begin at 6 p.m. on Friday, Jan. 23, at the VGCC Main Campus Civic Center in Henderson. The concert is free and open to the public. Community members, families, and friends are encouraged to attend and support the participating students and schools.

The Youth Honor Band reflects Vance-Granville Community College’s ongoing commitment to arts education and community engagement. For more information about the Youth Honor Band or VGCC Fine Arts programs, contact department chair Betsy Henderson at hendersonb@vgcc.edu or (252) 738-3371.

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About Vance-Granville Community College: Your community, your college. Since its founding in 1969, Vance-Granville Community College has proudly educated, inspired, and supported a diverse community of learners to achieve professional and personal success. VGCC offers 40+ Curriculum programs, as well as short-term Continuing Education, High School Equivalency, and Adult High School Diploma programs. Located in North Carolina's Triangle region, VGCC serves the counties of Vance, Granville, Franklin, Warren, and beyond! For the latest college news, visit www.vgcc.edu or follow Vance-Granville on Facebook, Instagram, X, YouTube, and LinkedIn.

Contact: Courtney Cissel, Public Information Officer cisselc@vgcc.edu • 252-738-3484