The Nevada Wind Ensemble is proud to release “Mythology Suite,” an album highlighting the ensemble’s artistry and evolution through an eclectic repertoire recorded from 2018 to 2022. Featuring works by celebrated composers and arrangers, the album reflects the ensemble’s commitment to showcasing both contemporary and traditional wind ensemble literature.
The album’s centerpiece, “Mythology Suite” by Stacy Garrop, draws on ancient tales to create a vivid musical narrative. The suite includes three movements: The Lovely Sirens, which captures the dangerous allure of the Sirens through lyrical melodies and Morse code-inspired rhythms symbolizing the sailors' doomed S.O.S. calls; Penelope Waits, a quiet reflection on Queen Penelope’s unwavering faithfulness, represented by a plaintive oboe solo; and Pandora Undone, a dynamic finale depicting Pandora’s fateful decision to open the box of evils, ultimately finding hope amidst the chaos.
“This project serves as a chronology of a set of repertoire performed by the Nevada Wind Ensemble from 2018-2022,” said Reed Chamberlin, DMA, director of bands and conductor of the ensemble. “Garrop’s ‘Mythology Suite’ serves as a perfect centerpiece, embodying the exceptional compositional craft that we value.”
The album also features Magneticfireflies by Augusta Read Thomas, a dazzling piece characterized by shimmering textures and rhythmic vitality, and a live recording of Omar Thomas’s Come Sunday: II. Shout, a powerful tribute to the Hammond organ’s central role in black worship services. Rounding out the collection is Dmitri Shostakovich’s Folk Festival, arranged by Donald Hunsberger, which adds a touch of classical brilliance to the album.
“The collection represents a range of emotions, styles and ideas, showcasing the wind ensemble’s versatility and possibility,” Chamberlin said. “Each piece adds its own voice to this musical journey, giving listeners a rich experience.”
With this release, the Nevada Wind Ensemble continues to elevate wind band performance, celebrating both tradition and innovation while delivering music that resonates with audiences worldwide.
“Mythology Suite” is available through Navona Records and can be streamed on all major platforms.
For more information about the Nevada Wind Ensemble and its projects, visit the ÐÔ°®ÎåÉ«Ìì, Reno’s School of Music, part of the College of Liberal Arts.
