What better way to get into a happy, holiday mood than taking in this collection of heart-warming wind band music at Redmond's Robertson Performing Arts Center? Our music director Jacob Scherr has curated a symphonic collection of seasonal favorites to brighten your December Sunday. You'll hear:
* "Minor Alterations," by David Lovrien -- Listen carefully for your favorite Christmas carols within this tasteful compilation, which Lovrien has cleverly tailored into minor keys. From the distinctive "Deck the Halls" at the start to the final, frenzied "Nutcracker Suite" finale, each tune is lovingly twisted into something new and inventive.
* "Bach's Fugue à la Gigue" -- by Johann Sebastian Bach (trans. Gustav Holst; ed. Jon Ceander Mitchell) -- In 1928, Holst set about scoring Bach's "Organ Fugue in G Major" for brass and military band, then branded it with his own title. This technically demanding piece draws in listeners with its mesmerizing interweaving of musical lines.
* "Russian Christmas Music," by Alfred Reed -- The late American composer Alfred Reed was just 23 when he was commissioned to write this stirring tribute to promote Russian-American unity -- and he completed it in just 14 days. First performed near the end of World War II and immensely popular among wind ensemble fans, its dramatic Tchaikovsky-esque finale alone is worth the price of admission!
* "How the Grinch Stole Christmas," by Albert Hague and Eugene Poddany (arr. Larry Clark) -- Melding the songs "Welcome Christmas" with "You're a Mean One, Mr. Grinch," the composers honor Dr. Seuss' 1966 TV animated musical comedy classic by the same name. Sit back and enjoy the fun memories conjured up by this timeless, familiar music.
* "Halcyon Hearts," by Katahj Copley -- Written to denote the moment of peace when one finds their love or passion, this work is especially poignant today in today's world. "No matter what race, gender, religion, nationality or love, we all are united with the common thread of passion from the heart. This piece was written in dedication to those who love no matter which negativity is in the world; do not allow hate and prejudice to guide the way we live our lives. Always choose love and the halcyon days will come." -- From the Composer
* "The Eighth Candle," by Steve Reisteter -- Composed in 1997 by a Roman Catholic inspired by Aaron Copland, this piece remembers the story of Hanukkah, the Festival of Lights. It begins with an extended hymn-like section followed by an exciting dance of celebration. Finally, the feast commemorates the victory of the Maccabees over the Syrian-Greek tyrant Antiochus over 2,180 years ago. Legend has it that, after the battles were won, there was only enough oil for the ceremonial lights to last for one day. Yet by some miracle, the oil lasted for eight days.
We hope you'll take a break from your busy holiday schedule to join us for this heartwarming concert. Be sure to buy tickets in advance, or go to our website to reserve your comfortable seat in the Robertson Performing Arts Center.
