Our Members
Our members are all members of Bismarck-Mandan and the surrounding communities.
John Darling - Director
Dr. John Darling retired as Chief Warrant Officer Three after a long and distinguished career in the U.S. Army where he served as a musician, instructor, and bandmaster. Following his time in the Army, he earned his doctoral degree in conducting from The Ohio State University. After serving two years at Rutgers University, he accepted the instrumental music position at Bismarck State College, where he retired as Professor of Music in 2023. An avid composer and arranger, he began his tenure with the West River Winds Community Band in 2011 as Associate Conductor. In 2016 he assumed his current position as Director.
Abelardo Flores - Associate Director
Associate Director Abelardo Flores received his undergraduate degree of Composition from San Diego State University, and a Masters in Education from the University of Mary. His works are published by TRN Music, BAS Publishing and Wehr’s Music House. His original compositions and arrangements have been programmed throughout the United States. From 2001 to 2011, he was music director of the San Diego Concert Band. He currently teaches music at Solheim Elementary School in Bismarck and heads the growing "Cougar Chorale" ensembles.
Board Members:
Director: John Darling
Associate Director: Abelardo Flores
President: Tracy Minh
Vice President: Marlin Peterson
Secretary: Sonja Plautz
Treasurer: Randy Meissner
Music Librarians: Gene Mosbrucker
Renae Mosbrucker
Members at Large:
Jacob Lawler
Jennifer Flores
Tim Cross
Dave Schaff
Karen Wagner