Naperville Winds to perform their season finale April 7
The Naperville Winds will perform the final concert of their premier season on Thursday, April 7, at North Central College in Naperville.
The concert begins at 7:30 p.m. at the Wentz Concert Hall, 171 E. Chicago Ave.
The concert band launched onto the suburban scene in 2021, and attracted some of the finest musicians in the Chicago area. The journey presented some challenges, but the end result has been performances of the highest level. The appreciative audience jumps up to standing ovations after each concert. This concert features the late Baroque German composer Johann Sebastian Bach's "Fantasia in G Major"; David Maslanka's Symphony No. 4; and Charles Ives' Variations on "America," in addition to an encore performance of "Come Sunday" by Omar Thomas, which is based on jazz and Black gospel music. The concert also will feature the Plainfield South High School Wind Ensemble under the direction of Naperville Winds percussionist Jerrod Cook.
Music director Dr. Sean Kelley shares some reflections after the first season.
"We created something monumental out of nothing, and each time we rehearse and perform, it's a miraculous achievement," Kelley said.
Aside from the challenging music, the hours of rehearsal, recording and analyzing, "the primary challenges have been administrative - securing the 501(c)3 status, securing funding, and negotiating contracts," Kelley said.
A group of this caliber requires logistical planning, programming, personnel juggling and fundraising.
The Naperville Winds weathered the first season and looks forward to what is to come. "We are a unique voice not only in Naperville, but in the entire Chicagoland area," said Kelley as he has eyes on the next season.
With eyes to a second season, the audition process begins again. "Those wishing to audition for the ensemble, support us financially, or simply attend a concert can visit thenapervillewinds.org for more information," said Kelley.
Tickets are $10-$15. Ticket information is available on the website, www.thenapervillewinds.org.