Programme Notes 2023

Jazz Band

MUY CALIENTE............................................................................................................................

by Erik Sherburne

This is a challenging samba for the more advanced jazz ensemble. From the beginning, the audience will engage with the Latin groove and writing for winds. There are solos for alto, tenor, trumpet, and trombone that highlight the players, and moments where the drummer will shine.

THE CHICKEN .........................................................................................

by Alfred James Ellis, Arr. Kris Berg

This is a showstopper! The chart, made famous by bass virtuoso Jaco Pastorius, gets kicking with a killer gospel chorale but is soon interrupted by one of the funkiest bass lines ever played! Soon the entire band is in on it with a Tower of Power-style sound that is sure to impress!

Symphonic Band

THE WISHING WELL............................................................................................................

by Rossano Galante

"The Wishing Well" depicts a touching musical scene of a child approaching a well and making a wish. The music ebbs and flows, utilizing solos and a full ensemble to describe the water at the bottom of the well. As we reach the climax, the central theme is stated as the child tosses the coin into the well with the hope that the wish will be granted.

WHERE EAGLES SOAR .........................................................................................................

by Steven Reineke

The majesty, beauty and strength of the eagle’s flight is portrayed with sensitivity and skill in this uplifting work! This is a simply magnificent piece with flourishes in the woodwind parts, and the result is spectacular. Each section is lovely, with idiomatic parts that show off what the musicians do best.