MoWest faculty member’s work selected for international performance

ST. JOSEPH, Mo. (KQTV) -- A composition by an associate professor of music at Missouri Western State University has been selected for a performance at the 21st Thailand International Composition Festival.

Derek Jenkins submitted his piece "Rock Bottom" to compete against 200 other submissions for the festival. Only 12 pieces were ultimately selected for a performance.

The work will be performed by the Mahidol Brass Band during the festival.

Jenkins joined the MoWest staff in 2024. His music has been performed throughout the United States, Europe, Canada and Brazil.

His composition "Gazing Earthward" is a finalist for the American Prize in Composition - band/wind ensemble.

The Thailand International Composition Festival is dedicated to the advancement of contemporary music and the cultivation of new voices in the industry.

The festival brings composers, performers, scholars and an audience from around the world.

The festival will take place at Mahidol University in Salaya, Thailand, from July 5-9, 2026.