Symphonic Wind's "Evolutions" Concert March 13

The evolutionary sequence chart shows the change from a hunched chimpanzee to an upright human through multiple steps. A similar progression occurred in band music between the 12th and 21st century.

CSU, Chico’s Symphonic Wind Ensemble will present “Evolutions” at 7:30 p.m. on March 13 in Harlen Adams Theatre.

This concert will trace the growth of band music and its various approaches across national borders.

“Many different nationalities are represented,” Director Royce Tevis said. “But the concert mostly focuses on the different styles of music.”

Tevis highlighted the importance of exposing student musicians to the variety of band music styles.

“Every student should experience music written by landmark composers, representing different eras and differing styles,” Tevis said. “In addition, all of the music must work together but provide variety.”

The songs vary widely in style and paint a full picture of band music’s evolutionary steps.

“Homage to Machaut” by Ron Nelson is a 20th century representation of Machaut’s medieval lyrical style. The symphonic wind ensemble will also perform Nelson’s “Homage to Perotin.” This will take audiences back to the rhythms of the 12th century.

Moving forward in band stages, “Evolutions” will feature “Tuscan Serenade” from 1879.

Grainger’s instrumental arrangement of Fauré’s vocal song will depict the soothing “Tuscan Serenade.” An English translation of the song’s text read, “Awake, my soul, my thought. Hear my voice carried on the breeze. Hear my voice singing!”

“The beautiful melody is” sung” first by the euphoniums and then the whole band,” Tevis said.

Transitioning from classical band music, “Evolutions” will feature “Eternal Father,” a Navy piece typical of 1970’s style band music. Smith’s song uses an odd-meter with a theme that repeats throughout different sections of the ensemble.

The concert will also feature Persichetti’s “Symphony for Band,” which helped to elevate the status of band music. In 1956 when “Symphony for Band” was released, many people saw band music as poor quality.

“Band music is virtually the only kind of music in America today (outside the ‘pop’ field) which can be introduced, accepted, put to immediate use, and become a staple of the literature in a short time,” Persichetti said.

In contrast to the tone of “Symphony for Band,” the symphonic wind ensemble will perform Jefer’s “Guided by Stars.” This 21st century minimalist composition resembles the sound of a midi file, complimented by band instruments.

Through the wide range of pieces from “Tuscan Serenade” to “Guided by Stars,” “Evolutions” will outline the growth of band music.

Advance tickets, at $15 adults, $13 senior citizens and $6 students/children, are available at the University Box Office, 898-6333. For disability-related accommodations, please call 898-4325. Add $2 for tickets purchased at the door.

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- Hillary Feeney