Howard Payne University will hold a special concert for the dedication of the Steinway Concert Grand Piano donated by Citizens National Bank on Thursday, September 23, at 7:30 p.m. in Mims Auditorium.

HPU alumnus and Brownwood native Senior Airman Dennis Lambert, a keyboardist and pianist in the U.S. Air Force Band of the West, is the featured performer for the concert. There is no admission charge and the community is invited and encouraged to attend.

The Citizens National Bank Board of Directors was the major contributors in the purchase of the Steinway piano.

“The new Steinway piano is a major enhancement to the newly renovated Mims Auditorium,” said HPU President Dr. Bill Ellis.  “It will be enjoyed for years to come by HPU as well as the Heart of Texas area. This is truly one of the finest instruments made and HPU is proud that CNB honored our university through this generous gift.”

Citizens National Bank of Brownwood has been a longtime supporter of Howard Payne University. Locally owned and operated, the bank has recognized and promoted the university’s value to the community and remained committed to the school’s mission. The bank has consistently supported HPU financially through gifts for scholarships and capital project needs. In 2007, the HPU Citizens National Bank Soccer Field was named in honor of the bank’s generosity.

Senior Airman Dennis Lambert is a 2008 graduate of HPU and a 2003 graduate of Brownwood High School. He served in the Central Air Forces Band, which toured in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom. He is an active freelance musician and clinician in the city of San Antonio.

Senior Airman Lambert has performed with Eddie Daniels, Memo Acevedo, Puerto Rican percussionist Georgie Padilla, the Mambo Kings, Mike Vax, and many others. He is a recipient of the Global War on Terrorism Medal and the National Defense Medal.

“We are very proud of Dennis Lambert’s accomplishments that came about from diligence and dedication to the art and craft of piano playing,” said Dr. Robert Tucker, dean of the music, fine arts and extended education. “His stellar achievements continue to bring recognition to the Brownwood community and HPU.”

For more information, contact HPU’s School of Music and Fine Arts at 325-649-8500.