Wind Ensemble

TWO COMPOSERS OF THE MONTH

In amongst all the commercial schlock and sentimental twaddle, there are composers who are writing band music of integrity which is probably not commercial enough for the world of wind bands, and may not win any competitions, but are perhaps worth listening to and making your own minds up.


Jim Self

TOUR DE FORCE BY Jim Self

JIM SELF with grand-daughter Maya and a few of his instruments.

Jim Self is one of the leading tuba players in the world, and has featured on films and shows with all of the greatest artists in Hollywood. As a composer, he has written some thirty five works for wind band, orchestra and various ensembles including solo tuba. The Pacific Symphony commissioned a 13 minute piece, Tour de Force, Episodes for Orchestra, and he recently rescored the work for wind band, premiered at Indiana University of Pennsylvania conducted by Jack Stamp, and USC in March of this year, H. Robert Reynolds conducting. Click on his portrait to be directed to his website.

Tour de Force, Episodes for Wind Ensemble – Jim Self (2008)

One Movement – Advanced Level (Grade 5)

Standard Wind Ensemble + piano, harp, string bass (optional)

(13:15 duration)

Listen to Jim Self's introduction for USC's Wind Ensemble Performance

Listen to USC's Wind Ensemble Performance of Tour de Force



James Stephenson

James M. Stephenson (b. 1969)

Browse on his photograph for his website

Chicago area composer James Stephenson’s works have been performed by leading American orchestras and hailed by critics as having “straightforward, unabashedly beautiful sounds” and "Stephenson deserves to be heard again and again!" (Boston Herald). His music incorporates a fresh and energizing sound scape that delights the audience while maintaining integrity and worthwhile challenges for the performing musicians. This rare combination has rewarded Stephenson with a host of ongoing commissions and projects.


CONCERTO BRAZILIANO for trombone and band

DUELS AND DANCES for oboes and concert band