Naperville Winds joins up with Plainfield East wind ensemble for Dec. 9 concert
The Naperville Winds, the newest concert band in DuPage County, presents its second concert at 7:30 p.m. on Thursday, Dec. 9, at the Wentz Concert Hall in Naperville.
Under the direction of Dr. Sean Kelley, the Naperville Winds presents a powerful program of music not often played by local concert bands.
This keeps with the band's mission to present the finest performance of outstanding concert band repertoire. Also invited to the stage is a special guest ensemble, Plainfield East High School's wind ensemble under the direction of David Lesniak and Jenna Wojdula.
The Naperville Wind's program represents a diverse style of music that challenges the musician and the listener. This music is not often performed, partially due to its level of difficulty.
There are certainly a lot of notes, and the rhythms present a musical challenge to the entire ensemble.
Paul Hindemith composed his "Symphony in Bb" for Concert Band in 1951. It has the signature rhythmic format of Hindemith, but the ensemble is challenged to balance and drive the rhythms in a neoclassical musical style. Also, on the program are the rich luscious harmonies of "O Magnum Mysterium" by Morten Lauridsen (arranged by Reynolds), "Symphonic Overture" by James Barnes, presents beautiful melodies and shows off talented members of the band with featured solos.
For jazz lovers, there is the complicated "Riff Raff" by Ryan George. Jazz rhythms are tossed from instrument to instrument in a complex pattern that is pure fun. The audience will appreciate the fine musicianship in the group and the diverse selection of music.
Plainfield East High School Wind Ensemble brings to the stage an ambitious program as well, which includes: "Entry of the Gladiators" ("Thunder and Blazes March"), "Guiding Light" by Michael R. Oldham, an alum of Plainfield East, and "Wassail," the first movement from a Suite by Vaughan Williams.
Tickets are $10-$15 and can be purchased through the band's website at thenapervillewinds.org.