Ohio University Wind Ensemble and Symphonic Band present 'Rhapsody in Blue'
May 31, 2011
From staff reports
The Ohio University School of Music’s Wind Ensemble and Symphonic Band will present their final concert of the season, “Rhapsody in Blue” at 7:30 p.m. Thursday, June 2, at Templeton-Blackburn Alumni Memorial Auditorium.
The focus of the concert is George Gershwin’s classic "Rhapsody in Blue." Written in 1924 for the Paul Whiteman Band, the famous piano feature has become one of the most beloved works of American classical music. Richard Syracuse, professor of piano emeritus will be featured as the soloist.
"Working with the masterful Richard Syracuse on this wonderful music has been a highlight of the season for myself and the students," said Andrew Trachsel, director of bands and conductor of the Wind Ensemble. "Richard has such a command of the piece and has taught us so much about making music – this is an experience we’ll never forget."
Other highlights include the young composer Kathryn Salfelder’s "Cathedrals," which features two antiphonal brass choirs incorporating the late-Renaissance music of Giovanni Gabrieli into a modern setting, and David Gillingham’s powerful "With Heart and Voice." These two pieces will showcase the talents of Carissa Patton and John Lopez, respectively, who are completing their Master of Music Performance degrees in Wind Conducting. Additional pieces will be by Percy Fletcher, Ralph Hultgren, Aram Khachaturian, Francis McBeth, and Clifton Williams.
The Wind Ensemble, conducted by Trachsel and Symphonic Band, conducted by Richard Suk, are the two major concert bands in the Ohio University School of Music. Both ensembles perform approximately six to eight concerts on campus each year.
The event, supported by Arts for Ohio, is open to all and free to the public.
published: May 31, 2011 11:36 AM
