Fund: Bill Helms UCR Bands Outstanding Student Support Fund Department: Music Dept D01037 Purpose: Graduate or Undergraduate Student Support History and Purpose: Bill Helms, director of bands, began his professional career as a musician in 1965 with the United States Air Force Band, performing with both the Concert Band and Jazz Band. After 4 years with the Air Force Mr. Helms moved to Southern California and worked as a free lance trombonist in the LA to Palm Springs area. His credits include work with artists like Sarah Vaughn, Mel Torme, Peggy Lee, Frank Sinatra, Vicki Carr, Joel Grey and many others. As an orchestral trombonist he has performed under Carmen Dragon, Herbert Blomstedt and in the LA Opera Company Orchestra, Riverside Symphony, Redlands Bowl Orchestra, and the San Bernardino Civic Light Opera Orchestra. Mr. Helms is also a former member of the American Wind Symphony, the Disney World Band and All American College Band. He has extensive experience as a professional conductor and Band Leader. He studied conducting with Herbert Blomstedt former Conductor of the Dresden Symphony Orchestra and now Conductor of the San Francisco Orchestra. Selection and Guidelines: To support outstanding student scholars who are participants in one of the UCR student bands. Awards will be made at the discretion of the department of music. Request for Information: Request Scholarship Information