Clemson University Symphonic Band to premiere original composition inspired by a local child’s courageous battle with cancer

The Clemson University Symphonic Band, under the direction of Professor Mark Spede, will present its annual fall concert on Monday, November 25, at the Brooks Center for the Performing Arts. This concert will feature Crew and the Spirit of the Wolf, an original composition by graduate student and Tiger Band trumpeter Parker Welsh '25.

Crew and the Spirit of the Wolf centers around Crew, a spirited 6-year-old from Seneca, South Carolina, courageously battling diffuse intrinsic pontine glioma (DIPG), a rare form of brain cancer. Crew, with the help of his older sister Natalie, penned an imaginative story that follows his journey from a family mountain trip to a vibrant, video-game world where he discovers his inner strength-the "spirit of the wolf." This story, brought to Spede by the Sing Me A Story Foundation, resonated with the Symphonic Band director, who invited Welsh to compose a musical piece to bring Crew's tale to life. The project is generously funded by Tiger Band alumnus Keith Snelgrove '77.

The Sing Me A Story Foundation, whose mission is to serve children and families in need through the imaginative stories of their children and the power of music, facilitated the project to allow Crew's voice and creativity to shine. Crew's story will be read aloud during the concert, underscored by Welsh's composition, creating an immersive and meaningful experience. Crew and his family will be in attendance.

"Composing and shaping music to fit Crew's story was so rewarding," said Welsh. "I hope that Crew and his family enjoy this piece. It's such a beautiful story, and I only hope to do it justice."

Welsh describes the central and triumphant message of the piece as a call to "stay curious," celebrating Crew's remarkable bravery, fearlessness and the lasting impact he has on his family, friends and community.

Tickets for the Clemson University Symphonic Band concert are $5 for adults and free to Clemson students. Tickets can be purchased at clemson.universitytickets.com, by phone at 864-656-7787, or at the Brooks Center Box Office. The Box Office is open Monday-Friday from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. and 90 minutes before the performance.

You can learn more about Crew's journey here.