Symphonic Band and Wind Ensemble
Featuring the WSC symphonic band and wind ensemble.
Patriotism and power punctuated with exuberance prevail at the Wayne State College Symphonic Band and Wind Ensemble performance on Tuesday, April 16 in Ramsey Theatre. The 7:30 p.m. concert is free and open to the public and will also be livestreamed.
Concertgoers hear a hint of “Home on the Range” in the Symphonic Band’s rendition of “Heart of America” written by James Barnes to honor the Kansas Bandmasters Association 50th anniversary. The ensemble follows with the stately British hymn “I Vow to Thee, My Country” by Gustav Holst, a Royal family favorite, and the thrilling yet tender “How to Train Your Dragon” by John Powell from the popular 2010 film by the same name. The Symphonic Band is conducted by Michael Genslinger.
The Wind Ensemble premieres “White on Blue” written by Texas-based composer Danielle Fisher to commemorate the reopening of WSC’s Peterson Fine Arts Hall. Additional works include “Our Cast Aways” by Julie Giroux, a touching dedication to discarded pets and their rescuers, and “Mother of a Revolution” by Omar Thomas, written for the 50th anniversary of the Stonewall Riots. The group concludes with the patchwork medley “Godzilla Eats Las Vegas” by Eric Whitacre, featuring rapid style changes and snippets of Vegas favorites. The Wind Ensemble is directed by Dr. Josh Calkin.
For more information, contact the WSC Department of Music at 402-375-7359.
Program
Symphonic Band, directed by Michael Genslinger
Heart of America - James Barnes
I Vow to Thee, My Country - Gustav Holst, arr. Paul Murtha
How to Train Your Dragon - John Powell, arr. Sean O’Loughlin
Wind Ensemble, directed by Dr. Josh Calkin
A Mother of a Revolution! (2019) - Omar Thomas (b. 1982)
White on Blue (2024) - Danielle Fisher (b. 1986)
*world premiere*
Our Cast Aways (2018) - Julie Giroux (b. 1961)
Godzilla Eats Las Vegas! (1996) - Eric Whitacre (b. 1970)