Convergence
Albany, 2025
9/10
The Wisconsin Chamber Orchestra continue their project into exploring the powerful voices of living, diverse composers, and here we’re treated to 5 pieces by 4 of them.
Patrice Rushen’s “Fanfare And Fantaisie” begins with the booming horns and dynamic strings interacting with plenty of energy and attentiveness, and “Changes”, by Andre Myers, follows with a distinct intimacy that radiates warmth via the dreamy winds.
Michael Abels’s “Nope Suite” arrives in the middle and unfolds across 7 chapters of soaring horns, scrappy drumming and atmospheric strings, while “Umoja: Anthem of Unity”, by Valerie Coleman, uses restraint strategically amid the tonality and constantly changing textures. “Global Warming”, the 2nd Abels tune, exits, and utilizes eloquent percussion and animated strings to its advantage.
A contemporary orchestral affair, this 2nd chapter of Musical Landscapes in Color again showcases the tremendous skill of the Wisconsin Chamber Orchestra that’s inclusive, glowing and timeless.
Travels well with: David Owens- Sky Legends: The Music Of David Owens; Ketty Nez- Through The Night