The UAFS Wind Ensemble performed their first concert of the season on Tuesday, October 25, 2022, at the ArcBest Corp. Performing Arts Center. Their performance included seven pieces of music composed by Dr. Alexandra Zacharella, capturing the feeling of fall and the seasons to come.
The Band started their concert with William Schuman’s (1910-1992) “Chester Overture for the Band.”The music, by my surprise, was fast and abrupt but also slow and peaceful with a nice build before the ending, making it a great start to the night of music to come.
They continued with “My Robin Is To The Greenwood Gone” by Percy Grainger (1882-1961), which included many twists and turns involving slow and steady moments, an intricate solo, and sectional moments that we, the audience, applauded.
The Ensemble then played a few other wonderfully performed compositions including, “October” by Eric Whitacre (b. 1970) and “Red Rock Mountain” by Rossano Galante (b. 1967) before concluding their concert with “Riptides” by Katahj Copley (b. 1998) which was my personal favorite of the night. Not only was this piece extremely complex it also sounded very ocean-like featuring a conch shell and ocean drum, it had a very fast and notable ending as well. The composer for this piece Katahj Copley is only 24 years old and the UAFS Wind Ensemble is one of the first to play it at a college level.
After the concert, the ensemble received a standing ovation from the audience as well as a much-deserved round of applause. The concert overall was a great experience that I would be happy to attend again.
For more information on the UAFS Wind Ensemble and their future concerts check out their Facebook page. https://www.facebook.com/groups/343822821060340
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