Rising – Northwestern University Symphonic Wind Ensemble

Description

Recognized as one of the nation’s premiere wind ensembles, the NWSWE emphasizes the performance of masterworks for band. On their first recording in seven years, the Northwestern University Symphonic Wind Ensemble have created a beautiful, songful recording with a style and sonority that streches the concept of what a symphonic wind ensemble ‘IS’…all while being an inspiring resource to music educators everywhere.

Color and range were very big issues that emerged as this project started to come together. The group put it all out there artistically, dynamically, expressively, and technically. Most know ‘Fanfare for the Common Man’. ‘Ceremonial Fanfare’ was written 25 years later and has a much more complex tonality, which is beautiful. The pairing with his (Copland) Outdoor Overture works well with its simple harmonic structure. Both are unmistakably Copland, but demonstrate movement and development.

Schwanter delivers Crystal glasses, singing, whistling, bowed percussion instruments, endless timbral modulations, and brilliant pyramids are colorful and beautiful.

The flow into the Whitcare is complimentary…beginning gently, simply, purely…setting the stage for the journey in Maslanka’s Symphony No. 4 – a serious JOURNEY, very well done. This recording is artistically powerful, intensely colorful, has a wide range of dynamics and emotions, with the type of visceral energy that reaches out and grabs the listener by the throat!

Here is a look behind the scenes at the making of Rising.