The Western Illinois University Wind Ensemble, under the direction of Professor of Music and Director of Bands Mike Fansler, made a landmark debut at New York City’s Carnegie Hall on May 23, as part of the 59th Annual President’s Concert.
Carnegie Hall, widely regarded as one of the world’s most prestigious performance venues, hosted the ensemble on its largest stage: the Isaac Stern Auditorium / Ronald O. Perelman Stage.
This milestone performance, dedicated to Dean William “Billy” Clow, also featured WIU Associate Director of Bands Matt Thomas as guest conductor and included a standout faculty solo by pianist Po-Chuan Chiang in Stravinsky’s Concerto for Piano and Winds.
The event, organized in collaboration with the WIU Alumni Association, welcomed an audience of distinguished guests, including WIU President Kristi Mindrup, Macomb Mayor Mike Inman and many alumni and supporters.
The concert repertoire was carefully selected to reflect the musical heritage of Carnegie Hall and New York City. Highlights included Aaron Copland’s Ensembles (1964) and Leonard Bernstein’s Profanation (1942). The final piece, Pines of Rome (1924) by Italian composer Ottorino Respighi, was chosen for its historical connection to the venue: its New York premiere took place at Carnegie Hall 99 years ago, led by legendary conductor Arturo Toscanini.
“The selection of music highlighted the wide range of talent of the WIU Wind Ensemble,” President Mindrup said. “The last piece filled the space, it showed the excellence of our students and their preparation. To be part of this moment and to get to know all of them made this experience deeply meaningful.”
The ensemble held its final rehearsal in the basement of the Sheraton Times Square Hotel just one day before the performance.
“We hadn’t played together in 15 days since the semester ended, not ideal before the biggest concert of our lives,” Fansler said. “But when they played, it was the best I had ever heard the WIU Wind Ensemble. I was overwhelmed with emotion and broke down after the rehearsal, which I’m not known to do. At that moment, I realized: we weren’t there to experience Carnegie Hall—Carnegie Hall was about to experience the WIU Wind Ensemble.”
The performance showcased 54 students from a variety of majors. The ensemble has previously performed in Chicago’s Orchestra Hall and toured internationally in Brazil.
“WIU is always looking for opportunities to place our students on the national stage, literally and metaphorically,” Mindrup said. “We have some of the best students in the country and we’re committed to showcasing their talent and excellence.”
Fansler praised the WIU School of Music’s continued dedication to student success.
“What makes our School of Music special is the commitment from faculty and staff to help students reach their fullest potential,” he said. “Playing off campus gives others a glimpse of what happens here every day. After this incredible trip, we’ll keep putting students first, developing their passion for music and continuing to study music at the highest level possible. I’m very proud of the WIU School of Music and its commitment to providing a first-class education and offering amazing opportunities for our students.”
For a full list of WIU Wind Ensemble members and more information about the group, visit bit.ly/wiu-windensemble.
To learn more about the WIU School of Music, visit wiu.edu/cofac/music/.
***Courtesy of Western Illinois University***
