Mallory Thompson ’79, ’80 MS on Making Connections & Building an Alumni Community

Mallory Thompson graduated from the Bienen School of Music in 1980 and is now only the third person in the university’s history to hold the director of bands position. Beloved by the Northwestern music community, Thompson shared stories about helping students and alumni network with each other, but even more importantly, make lasting connections with one another in informal settings. She talked us through the challenges and opportunities that she faced in her career as well as issues like burnout, and the importance of getting to know oneself, that musicians face throughout their lifetime.  

Mallory Thompson will also be conducting for the Symphonic Wind Ensemble 50th Anniversary Celebration on Sunday, June 9 at 7:30 p.m. Central. SWE alumni from virtually every major orchestra and military ensemble will perform a program of ensemble favorites and wind masterworks to commemorate the 50th anniversary of SWE's founding. Visit music.northwestern.edu/events/live after 7:20 p.m. Central to view the live stream.