UW-Parkside wind ensemble, commununty band go global May 8

KENOSHA - The University of Wisconsin-Parkside Wind Ensemble and Community Band close out their concert season on an international note Thursday, May 8. Conducted by Mark Eichner, the concert begins at 7:30 p.m.

The Wind Ensemble features "Sinfonietta Flamenco" by Spanish-American composer Carlos Surinach.

"This piece uses the exotic scales of the Gypsies, the Moors and the Sephardic Jews," said Eichner. "In three contrasting movements, Flamenco themes are woven into a highly expressive presentation of the musical tradition and dignity of the Spanish underclass."

"The Seventh Night of July" by Japanese composer Itaru Sakai tells the folk legend of two star-crossed lovers that is the basis for the "Tanabata" festivals throughout Japan. The Wind Ensemble also performs "Above, Below, and Between" by Robert Starer and Karl King's circus gallop "The Big Cage."

The Community Band begins its performance with "Circus Suite" by Hungarian composer Frigyes Hidas. Eichner said the music condenses an entire show into five movements titled "Entry Music," "Clowns," "Rope Dancer," "Trapeze Artist," and "Parade of Performers." Also featured are Verdi's "Overture to Nabucco," a transcription of a "Nocturne" by Alexander Scriabin, and "Foshay Tower Washington Memorial" by John Philip Sousa.

The bands then combine to perform Juilliard School composer Eric Ewazen's "Celtic Hymns and Dances," a set of original themes that evoke medieval and renaissance atmospheres.

Held in the Communication Arts Theater, admission to this evening of global music is $6 for adults and $4 for students and seniors. For more information, call the UW-Parkside Music Department at 262-595-2457.