The Shippensburg University Wind Ensemble and Concert Band performed at the Luhrs Center on Sunday, Mar. 29. It showcased the inspiration and creativity behind musical composition, offering audience members an inside scoop at how composers bring their ideas to the music world.
Throughout the show, director Trever Famulare demonstrated a strong sense of passion and heart, stressing how a listener's mind and emotion play a key role in shaping a piece of music because music is supposed to make you feel.
One of the standout elements discussed was the use of contrast. Transitions between loud and soft moments were clean and smooth, showing careful attention to detail and good control of the instruments These shifts added that emotional feel and engaged audiences.
The composer also explored how historical events, including the fall of the Berlin Wall, inspired music pieces. By connecting real world moments to music, the performance showed how outside influences can shape artistic expression and give deeper meaning to a piece.
“The thing I probably enjoyed the most was working with Dr. Famulare in the weeks leading up to the concert. He just had a lot of energy and [it] made him really easy and fun to work with,” said SU student Stephen Root.
In addition to outside influences, Dr. Famulare explained the reasoning behind song selection and what each piece represents on a personal level to him. This helped the audience better understand both the technical and emotional aspects of composition.
“I think it went really well. I think a lot of us were really nervous in the weeks leading up… and it really turned out to be a really strong performance,” said Rowan Wessner, one of the performers of the show. “Dr. Famulare came up to us after the show and was like ‘Wow where did that come from?’”
The performance also showcased the use of unconventional sounds such as a power drill. Familiar pieces like “Danny Boy” were reimagined through different tempos, demonstrating versatility and originality.
The show concluded with a final composition centered on hope and imagination, encouraging listeners to think creatively and interpret the music in their own way. Overall, the performance offered an engaging and fun look into the art of music composition.
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