The Wisconsin Wind Orchestra (WWO) prepares for its 10th season in 2005-2006. The ensemble will perform Oct. 23, 2005, at 4 p.m. in the Humphrey Memorial Chapel, 238 N. East Ave., Waukesha. Included in the program is Mozart's "Magic Flute Overture," Loudova's "Giovanni's Dream," the "Petite Suite" by Debussy and "Divertissement" by Bernard. The group's season continues with a concert Feb. 11, 2006, at 8 p.m. at Carroll College and several other performances throughout the state, the Wisconsin Conservatory and at Northwestern University in Evanston, Ill.
"Repertoire for this year will center on music from our upcoming international CD, "Wind Consorts," as well as celebrate the 150th anniversary of Mozart's birth with a performance of his inspired work for thirteen winds, the famous Gran Partita," says Director Lawrence Dale Harper.
The WWO, the resident professional ensemble of Carroll College, is one of the only ensembles of its kind in the world and features many of the finest musicians in the Midwest. The ensemble builds on the tradition of musical excellence found in major symphony orchestras, the innovation of wind groups such as the Eastman Wind Ensemble and Dallas Wind Symphony, and the technical versatility of the premier military bands.
The WWO made its debut in Wisconsin in December 1995 with the goal to "perform and record, at the highest artistic standards, the most distinguished international literature for winds and percussion."
In 1997, the WWO released its first CD, "Romantic Sensibilities," followed by a second one in 2001 called "Old Wine in New Bottles." In reviews of these discs, the American Record Guide praised the ensemble, calling it "top quality," with a conductor who is "a stickler for detail, a motivator, and a first-rate musician who brings nuance and insight to a piece of music."
Tickets for the Oct. 23, 2005, and Feb. 11, 2006, performances are $15 adults and $12 students and seniors and can be purchased through the Carroll College Campus Center Box Office by calling (262) 524-7633.
