The woodwind ensembles of the Shippensburg University music department held their fall semester concert in Old Main Chapel on Nov. 6. Three groups including the flute choir, clarinet ensemble and saxophone ensemble spent the semester coming together and practicing various pieces for this concert. 

The flute choir performed first with three members and director Suzanne Thierry. The group, consisting of sophomores Michelle Partt and Annabelle Garman and senior Paige Shope, played four pieces ranging from rich Latin music, jazz and chamber music.  

“It’s a great way to experience different styles of music,” Garman said. 

The flute choir finished their performance with the exciting and stimulating “Tico-Tico no Fubá” by Zequinha De Abreu and arranged by Thomas Graf. 

The clarinet ensemble then performed, led by director Tom Meyer and their four members: Katie Bridges, Ryann Libor, Kyla Sullivan and Luke Benner. Their performance consisted of five pieces. Notably “Simple Gifts” by Joseph Brackett and arranged by Lennie Niehaus. 

Finally, the saxophone ensemble, also directed by Tom Meyer, performed five pieces including “Danny Boy” by Frederic Weatherly and arranged by Walter Todenhoft. With eleven members, this group consisted of Ethan Koppenhaver, Morgan Bennett, Alex Goodman, Kyle Krause, Ryann Libor, Katie Bridges, Patricia Gaydar, Josh Miller, Boen Burget, Nick Snively and Jarrett Watson. 

“We work very hard for the music that we put on and are proud of what we can show at the end of each semester,” Woodwind ensemble president Kyla Sullivan said. “I look forward to when the group starts again in the spring so that we can put on more great music.” 

These woodwind ensembles do not require audition and welcome everyone with any musical experience.  

“The Ship Woodwind Ensembles offer a great opportunity for students to improve playing skills through chamber music encompassing all styles of music. The students’ musical skills especially stood out on the Sunday concert, and the enjoyment and dedication to music making was most evident,” flute choir director Suzanne Thierry said. 

If interested in participating in the Spring, be sure to reach out to the Shippensburg University music department. Editor’s note: Paige Shope is a member of the flute choir. 

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