Drake University Wind Symphony
Robert Meunier, conductor
Vince Kenney, euphonium
Purchase from Mark Masters
56986-MCD
It is always a pleasure to review the consistently excellent CDs of Robert Meunier and the Drake University Wind Symphony, The opening composition is La Mezquita de Cordoba by Julie Giroux. This descriptive portrait of a historic mosque in Andalusia is one of the composer’s finest works. Peace, Peace, so Sing the Birds (Yasuhide Ito) is a 2018 musical overhaul and revision of the composers 2001 Pacem et Glorium pro Nobis. Drifting by Aaron Perrine is a true showpiece for euphonium and wind ensemble; Soloist Vince Kenney displays unparalleled virtuosity. Kenney and Eric William Barnum developed an instrumental setting of the choral work The Sweetheart of the Sun… I cannot help feeling an indirect nod to Vincent Persichetti’s music. The remaining two works are an unmatched performance of Fisher Tull’s masterwork Sketches on a Tudor Psalm and an exceptional setting of Wayfaring Stranger by Christopher M. Nelson that will fascinate the listener. A first class CD indeed!!
