From Sousa to Maslanka: Bands Perform American Music

Alma College’s concert bands will perform music by exclusively American composers during its annual spring concert.

The Kiltie Wind Ensemble and Alma Wind and Percussion Consort will perform at 3 p.m. Sunday, March 29 in the Remick Heritage Center. Tickets are $10 for adults, $5 for seniors 62 and up, and free for all Alma College staff, students and youth 18 and under. Seating is reserved. Call (989) 463-7304 for ticket information.

The concert begins with a John Philip Sousa march, “The Liberty Bell.” Other songs on the program will feature different types of music, from “With Heart and Voice” by David Gillingham, to the deeply contemplative music of David Maslanka, to the purposefully repetitive minimalism of John Adams.

Justin Rito will conduct the bands in the temporary absence of Dave Zerbe, who is on academic sabbatical leave.

“As an alumnus of Alma College and a member of the bands for four years, it has truly been a pleasure and honor to work with these students this term,” says Rito. “I would like to personally extend my thanks to Alma College, the music department, and Dave for providing me with this incredible opportunity.”

Rito, a pianist, conductor and arranger from Grand Rapids, has composed award-winning works that have been performed at conferences and new music events throughout the United States and Canada.

Story published on March 19, 2015