Heukeshovens selected as Minnesota Ambassadors of Music faculty

WINONA, Minn. — Dr. Janet and A. Eric Heukeshoven of the Saint Mary’s University Music Department have been selected to be on the faculty of the Minnesota Ambassadors of Music. The group will represent Minnesota on a 16-day tour of seven European countries in July 2014. The Minnesota Ambassadors are comprised of a select concert band and choir composed of students from throughout the state.

This will mark the couple’s fifth tour together. Janet Heukeshoven began her duties as flute section coach in 2000 and has been featured as piccolo soloist each trip. Eric Heukeshoven joined the faculty for their 2006 tour and serves as low brass section coach and is the group’s German interpreter.

Students are nominated for the trip by their local band or choir director based on musicianship and character. The tour itinerary will include concerts and sightseeing in London, Paris, Switzerland, Austria, Germany, Liechtenstein and Italy. The group will spend several days rehearsing together prior to departure.

The late Dr. Frank Bencriscutto and his wife, Jean, founded the Minnesota Ambassadors of Music in 1989.  “Dr. Ben” was the director of Bands at the University of Minnesota for many years. The Heukeshovens were both students of his while earning their bachelor degrees in music.